This was another terrific episode. The story continues to be exceptionally well-told, rarely faltering in it's masterful execution. Though slow at times, I find it quite deliberate in it's methodical pacing, which allows for a thorough immersion into the gradual development of the world and the characters that inhabit it.
The opening sequence was fantastic, as, five hundred and seventy years following the initial outbreak of magical abilities, three assassins lay siege to the temple, and, eventually, after suffusing their surroundings in a fiery glow, the final assassin murders the Emperor of Delight, and, as was noted by the assassin, this brutally momentous action likely altered history in a significant fashion. Though these opening sequences are usually visually impressive, this one was particularly so, as the artistic style, by way of some beautifully contrasting colors, excellently portrayed each significant flourish. Since they effectively illuminate the unknown evolution of the original world into this veiled, tautly structured society, these sequences remain incredibly effective in establishing a certain atmosphere that permeates the entire episode, casting a particularly ominous air over the following developments.
The story, though more serene in tone throughout the episode, remains extensively thought-provoking and intriguing. Following an important scene from the previous episode that involved Saki's disobedient action of using her Cantus to free a queerat, they've already chosen to rebel once again by abandoning their planned route and rowing to a destination that wasn't permitted. The starlit scene in which Shun touched Saki's hand was a pretty good moment, as their small, but nice interactions are quite compelling, since, up to this point, their burgeoning relationship signifies the sole presence of any discernible emotions of a romantic inclination.
There is one particular, seemingly insignificant scene I thought worth mentioning, since it could prove to be a brief moment of foreshadowing. Upon first encountering the minoshiro, they all become temporarily hypnotized, save for Saki, since she was somehow protected by the glasses she wore. This could potentially be an omen of significance, denoting Saki as the sole survivor of the coming events. Their encounter with the minoshiro was a great scene, as, eventually, having been captured and tamed, the minoshiro spoke, indicating that it was a biological library containing historical knowledge. I'm rather excited for the increased unraveling of the narrative that very possibly awaits following the cliffhanger of sorts that concluded the episode. There also appeared to be a vague connection between the story that ominously illustrated the fate of those who come upon an evil minoshiro and their actual encounter with one, thus acknowledging that, if they manage to reveal the secrets closed within, they could be similarly "disposed" of.
The characters are exceedingly interesting, particularly Saki, as her complexities were most noticeable when she coldly threatened to seriously injure the minoshiro. The character interactions remain quite engaging, and it will be interesting to see how suddenly they transition in nature once their relatively peaceful existence is shattered. Their innocent, relaxed activities belie the unsettling nature of their world; a disquieting dichotomy that will inevitably come into play. As such, the developments within the next episode could provide an irreversible loss of innocence and an unexpected maturation into adulthood.
The production values have been one of the strongest elements of the show so far. The direction is extremely consistent in it's high quality, particularly in how confidently it manages to evoke directly contrasting emotions in moments that might otherwise appear lighthearted and relatively meaningless. It handles the complex pacing really well, while also balancing every episode with a tightly focused, distinctly subtle approach. Hardly any shot is wasted or left for mere insignificance.
This episode was visually amazing, highlighted especially in the opening, but also displayed quite wonderfully throughout the dazzling starlit sequence. As always, there were a plethora of stunning scenic shots. The writing is terrific, particularly in how deftly it handles the nuances of Saki's complex characterization. Musically, I felt this episode was more consistent than the last, since it was devoid of any particularly jarring selections, such as was evident in last episode's tournament. My absolute favorite piece is the one used in each opening, as it sets the tone for these haunting preludes brilliantly.
All in all, From the New World continues to excel with it's haunting depiction of a decayed, desolate society and the precocious naivety of the children who now seem lost in it's mysterious, unprotected edges. I'm really looking forward to the next episode, as it suggests they'll finally discover the truth surrounding the blood-stained nature of their world. Also, judging by the preview, it seems that they'll be made aware that fiends, beings that bring the potential for the destruction of their controlled society, may emerge once again. It's possible that these "fiends" could, in fact, refer to any or all of the main characters. This is easily the best, most impressive show of the season. |