In contrast with the action packed first cour of 86, the second cour primarily focuses on interpersonal relationships and the 86’s struggle between a peaceful life in the Giad Federacy or returning to the battlefield. Volume 2 and the second cour explore themes such as the psychological trauma of being a child soldier and the quest to find purpose in life. It’s an interesting departure from the action of the first 12 episodes. This is mainly due to the fact that 86’s first volume was originally intended to be a standalone story prior to its success.
Despite the lack of action scenes, A-1’s quality was on full display in the second cour. The cinematography, direction, art, OST, transitions and storyboarding were all superb. A lot of people were rightfully upset with the delay for the last two episodes, but it certainly paid off for A-1. The masterpieces that were episodes 11 and 12 were well worth the wait. The finale of volume 2(episode 11) was by far one of my most anticipated episodes ever and it was perfect. You can truly see the love that A-1’s staff have for the story in every single episode and that is the highest praise I can put on any LN adaptation. Too often do we get adaptations which are clearly just extended ads for the LN and only made to get books bought. 86 bucked that trend and I can only hope and pray we see season 2 soon. I want to clarify that we are nowhere near the peak of 86, if A-1 continue at this pace and dedicating time and resources, seasons 2 and 3 will be absolutely mind blowing.
86 second cour gets the easiest 10 I’ve ever given.
