Director: Noriyuki Abe
Starring: Yuki Matsuoka, Johnny Yong Bosch, Fumiko Orikasa, Michelle Ruff,
Running Time: 275 minutes
Certificate: 12
Continuing the filler arc that is actually above and beyond the current main story in BLEACH continuity, Season 12 Part 2 stays with the ‘Zanpakuto: An Alternate Tale’. Once again this series of stories will dig deep within the viewer thanks to the fact that although they have been forever present, the Zanpakuto have been more of an unphysical entity. There’s an obvious connection between the characters and their new enemies, who are interesting due to their ability of justifying their actions.
Most strikingly, the visual tone is a lot darker as this set kicks off. The greys and blacks are dominant, and they welcome a more desperate feel to proceedings. Whereas many battles in BLEACH have been unapologetically played for entertainment’s sake over the last few seasons, these battles have roots that can be traced back to the characters, making each fight feel more important. The Zanpakuto also have an understandable motive, meaning we can easily question our ‘heroes’.
The Zanpakuto also allow for fascinating character designs, which the animators have gone to town on. The human vs. human battles are fine, but when one of the Zanpakuto takes on the form of a creepy butterfly crossed with a baby, you know you’re in for something slightly more creative. Another of the challengers is a huge humanoid who emanates fire. In a show that has added characters to the point of success, where many of them where the same clothes, it’s a nice treat to see some creatures truly stand out. Unfortunately they can’t all be winners, and one of the Zanpakuto is a bright yellow fairy that sounds very annoying.
A bit more repetitive than the last set, BLEACH once again finds a certain level of comfort and then becomes complacent. The story stagnates for far too long as a number of battles take place, not simultaneously but consecutively. Towards the end a few more strands come together, and the twists are worth the wait. For any fans that have petered off over the many years of BLEACH, ‘Zanpakuto: An Alternate Tale’ is still the closest to cohesive storytelling the show has come in quite some time. Great action, but with far too much going on to truly be engrossed.
BLEACH Season 12 Part 2: Zanpakuto: An Alternate Tale is out now on DVD via Manga Entertainment.
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