{"id":27983,"date":"2020-02-06T22:54:14","date_gmt":"2020-02-07T06:54:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ourstarblazers.com\/vault\/?p=27983"},"modified":"2023-02-14T13:55:12","modified_gmt":"2023-02-14T21:55:12","slug":"444a","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.ourstarblazers.com\/vault\/444a\/","title":{"rendered":"Yamato 2202<\/em> Episode 8 commentary"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"2002icon\"<\/p>\n

After the battle, Kodai’s heart sinks in remorse for failing to prevent sacrifice. He finds it even harder to cope when he is reunited with his fiancee Yuki Mori, who stowed away on Yamato<\/em> as a nurse. Amid various thoughts and intrigues, Yamato<\/em> to Planet Stravaze to entrust its refugees to a Garmillas fleet.<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

by Anton Mei Brandt<\/span> and Kathy Clarkson<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Episode 8: The Trap on Planet Stravaze!<\/h2>\n

<\/p>\n

As if frozen in time, Mazer\u2019s 8th fleet is aimlessly floating about near the smouldering remains of the 11th planet\u2019s artificial sun. \u201cA graveyard of ships,” as ace pilot Shinohara puts it. With no signs of repairs, heat, nor radar signatures coming from the enemy soldiers, Sanada ponders if these beings are incapable of creating or repairing, only knowing how to destroy. Following a brief silence in the briefing room, Tokugawa asks an open question: What\u2019s the plan?<\/p>\n

[AMB]: The opening shot of this episode is very detailed, going so far as to show the dispersed clouds on the planet through which the WMG was fired (which resemble an aurora borealis). But Shinohara\u2019s comments are even more interesting, asking what the Gatlanteans are thinking since – as Sanada says – they\u2019re not even moving inside their ships. To build on the school-of-fish allegory from last episode, one could say they\u2019ve been left on land to dry in the sun. We also see Yamato<\/em>\u2019s view of the fleet, stars shining through their lifeless husks.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Tokugawa\u2019s question is a difficult one. With the sociopolitical ramifications of Yamato<\/em>\u2019s actions in mind, what should they do with the refugees? Where should they go now? How to proceed after such a momentous event is a question I\u2019d like to ask the readers of this commentary. How would you proceed?<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: Yes, let\u2019s ask those reading along. Not me. But I will say that this time around the Gatlanteans are going to present more moral challenges than they ever did in the old days.<\/span><\/p>\n

Not willing to potentially endanger the lives of the refugees, Sanada recommends Yamato<\/em> escort them to Earth, rather than waiting for the rescue fleet to pick them up. Shima points out that a roundtrip to Earth would disrupt the schedule, which leads Keyman to make a suggestion; 1800 light years away (in Telezart\u2019s general direction) is Stravaze, a red volcanic planet which an allied Garmillan fleet will fortuitously pass by the next day. <\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Since the fleet is on a simple routine trip from Garmillas to Earth, Keyman argues they could easily transport the civilians in Yamato<\/em>\u2019s stead. Akira Yamamoto seems surprised, but Sanada throws a questioning look at Klaus. Keyman continues, saying \u201cTelezart is calling for help. Yamato<\/em> should move forward.\u201d Glancing down at the planetary data presented on the holodeck, Sanada continues to ponder in silence.<\/p>\n

[AMB]: Akira’s positively surprised at hearing that suggestion coming out of Keyman’s mouth. Last time they discussed the refugees in episode 6, Klaus was not that optimistic, but has since last episode changed his tune. Yamato, and by extension Akira, is changing him.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: A “routine trip” from Garmillas to Earth! Someone wipe this big, doofy grin off my face.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: With the gift of hindsight, we both know what the purpose of said trip really is. But to play along with Sanada\u2019s skepticism, it\u2019s well within reason to doubt people connected to a Garmillas embassy liaison, whose agenda still remains ambiguous. It\u2019s all very convenient. In all honesty though, I think Sanada\u2019s more concerned with the volcanic nature of the meeting place than anything else.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: And he\u2019s not wrong to be skeptical. I just think it\u2019s neat that ships go back and forth between those two planets now like it\u2019s no big deal.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: One does wonder though – what would the purpose of their routine trip be, if it truly is one?<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: Keeping Ambassador Burrel and his staff fully stocked with comforts and delicacies from home? Guided tours of the wreckage of the Imperial Palace to raise money for the new government and all those ships they\u2019re building in the Time Fault?<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: Sign me up.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Outside on Yamato<\/em>\u2019s rear deck, Saito speaks his heart to Kodai under a starlit night as they gaze across the scorched ground below. Two hundred people were saved, but ten times that number were killed, both young and old. And despite knowing this, Yamato<\/em>\u2019s Captain let the perpetrators go. Holding back his frustrations as best he can, the Cosmo Marine Captain admits to his lack of knowledge about Yamato<\/em>\u2019s promise with the Iscandarians, but still urges Kodai to remember what he just told him. (Incidentally, since neither of them are wearing spacesuits or breathing apparatus, the damage to Planet 11’s sun was apparently not catastrophic enough to thin the atmosphere. Not yet, at least.)<\/p>\n

Keeping in mind Saito’s nature as an undisclosed walking-dead puppet of Zordar, we always have to assume the Emperor is driving his words. Therefore, it can just as easily be Zordar himself pressing Kodai for an explanation of his actions.<\/p>\n

[AMB]: Kodai\u2019s mercy toward the Gatlanteans is his burden forevermore. Saito\u2019s approach here is very mature, a big contrast to his original counterpart. There\u2019s no punching or cursing, just a good old fashioned talk. Since Kodai doesn\u2019t reject his plea, we can assume that he intends to never forget his decision. It marks his greatest burden as Yamato<\/em>\u2019s Captain so far. If he seemed worried about his role and responsibility before now, it will be nothing compared to what lies ahead.<\/span><\/p>\n

Worth noting is that based on Saito’s estimation, the 11th planet’s population numbers prior to Nazca’s arrival was around the 2000 mark. Not anymore though.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

On yet another note, the solidified scorched earth of the planet looks slightly disturbing, like large guts strewn about in the wake of the Legionnaire Cannon. Fitting, since the beam they shot sliced open the planet\u2019s proverbial stomach and left it to pour out magma. And Saito\u2019s mention of dead elderly people? Santa\u2019s definitely dead. The joy of Christmas couldn\u2019t change Cosmodart\u2019s heart.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: Poor Santa. He fared a lot better against the Martians than Gatlantis.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Near the ruins of the 11th Planet\u2019s capital, Touko Katsuragi is out on a stroll, searching for something. She picks up a piece of cloth from the sandy ground and then overhears something. Walking across the desolate landscape is Professor Redrowz, his neck abnormally tilted, as if broken (though his magnificent mega-mullet is unruffled). After he passes through the frame of an open doorway, she straightens his neck, smiling at the surprised professor with a word of greeting. \u201cWelcome back, Professor.\u201d <\/p>\n

The episode’s director makes a conscious choice here with the lighting on Redrowz’ glasses. Whenever they go opaque (fully reflective) it represents a shift in consciousness. When his eyes are revealed again, the shift has taken place. Keep that in mind as you watch the rest of the episode.<\/p>\n

[KC]: Well, look who has a pet archaeologist Zombie to go with their Space Marine Zombie. Collect \u2018em all!<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: In the wise words of Gordon Cole from Twin Peaks: The Return:<\/em> \u201cHe\u2019s dead.\u201d We need to discuss this, especially knowing he\u2019s a living dead body, as most would probably figure out after witnessing the unsnapping of his neck.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

We last saw Redrowz in Episode 6 and Touko in Episode 7, both onboard Yamato<\/em>. The professor probably went to investigate the aforementioned ruins (or U.N. HQ to gather intel on Zordar\u2019s behalf) between the day of the last episode and the night of this one, but since Yamato<\/em>\u2019s about to depart, Touko went out to make sure he isn\u2019t left behind; he\u2019s a useful alibi in case someone starts asking questions about her credentials.<\/span><\/p>\n

When was the professor turned? Maybe long before, while excavating Akerius ruins on some remote planet occupied by Gatlantis? In the wake of Gatlantis\u2019 invasion of the 11th planet? Either way, it\u2019s easy to infer that Touko (in fact a Sabera clone) used her information on the Akerius civilization as an incentive to become the professor\u2019s trusted aid, making sure she always had someone to vouch for her. Following his demise, turning him into a living dead body makes a lot of sense.<\/span><\/p>\n

Regarding the doorway imagery, my take is that it\u2019s meant to symbolise Redrowz being unable to pass on through the open doorway, or to the other side if you will, because his will is no longer in his own hands.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: I went with the presumption that Touko joined up with Professor Redrowz before he himself was compromised, but it’s plausible that Redrowz has been under Gatlantean influence for far longer. And I thought that standing him in that doorway was a great artistic choice.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Back inside the bustling Yamato<\/em>, Shima recounts the previous staff meeting to Kodai while various crew members from both the tech and medical department rush by. Kodai decides that he wants to see the Stravaze charts for himself before making a decision, but before he can leave he catches a surprise glimpse of the mysterious blonde medic from last episode. But Shima seems more concerned than surprised, because the medic is none other than Yuki Mori, Kodai\u2019s ex-fiancee. <\/p>\n

[AMB]: The fact that Shima seems in on this whole charade is a detail which brings some well-earned levity to this episode. We all know who she is, and her return mirrors that of her original counterpart, even down to the use of music in the soundtrack.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: When they choose to pay homage to the original work they do not muck about.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: To those who grew up with Farewell<\/em> in the 80\u2019s, it\u2019s an almost sacred work of Japanese animation. When Mr. Habara was approached to direct this series, he at first didn\u2019t think he had what it took to do it. As one of those fledglings who experienced that groundbreaking piece of fiction in the cinema, he\u2019s done his best to treat it with respect. Hero’s Hill, Andromeda<\/em>, Yuki\u2019s Akirantroduction, they\u2019re all here with the hope of carrying the same emotions they did years ago for audiences both young and old.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

What follows is a comedic yet tense confrontation between the two former lovers, with Dr. Sado trying his best to stymie any negative consequences of their strained reunion. \u201cWho are you,” Kodai asks. And with honesty in her heart, Yuki steels her resolve and answers truthfully. She\u2019s Yuki Mori of the EDF, serving as a medic. Apparently she was deliberately kept off the crew list, but Sado rejects this notion saying he simply forgot. <\/p>\n

[AMB]: Yuki with a ponytail. I\u2019m surprised it hasn\u2019t got a figure yet. <\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: Hah! You beat me to that comment. They do have a figure of her in the tiny nurse\u2019s dress, but I’m pretty sure her hair is down so an opportunity definitely exists here!<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: Get to it Bandai! We TOTALLY need more Yuki figures… Buy yes, she may play it cold here but part of me thinks she’s really anxious about being confronted by Kodai. <\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: Well, when Kodai first told her not to come she chose to interpret that as evidence that he doesn\u2019t feel she is worthy\/entitled to come, not having heard Teresa\u2019s call. We know that isn\u2019t really why, but I can understand her anxiety if she truly believes that she doesn\u2019t deserve to be there.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: That and the fact that she seems to believe Kodai has little faith in her being of help to him in this conflict. <\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Arguing for military discipline well outside his character, Kodai orders her to leave the ship. And with an unusual coldness, she prepares to do just that. Sado desperately tries to intervene, but his help is respectfully rejected when Yuki tells him to tend to more urgent matters. Sado leaves the two alone, whispering to Kodai that he should blame him instead of her, and that fighting is no good. A painful silence settles in the space between them as Miki Saijou\u2019s voice echoes across the ship\u2019s intercom, informing the crew that personnel decision deadlines regarding civilian care are fast approaching.<\/p>\n

[AMB]: This scene is just painful to watch. Yuki doesn\u2019t want to act coldly to him and Kodai hates acting like a stuck up military type, but they don\u2019t know how else to deal with this situation. One is responding to neglect while the other feels betrayed. Kodai has up to this point been trying to suppress the idea of a future without Yuki, and here she is unannounced.<\/span> <\/p>\n

After staring at each other for a moment, Yuki walks past the Captain unfazed. She unties her hair and starts to undress in front of her locker, making Kodai even more uncomfortable. This finally breaks his “stern commander” act and he questions her actions, to which she simply responds that she\u2019s following orders. He asks how Yuki thinks she\u2019s going to get home from here. \u201cIt was your order wasn\u2019t it? I\u2019ll spacewalk or whatever to get home.” At such a dangerous prospect, he quickly rescinds his former order, intending to give her a new one. A quizzical look settles on her face as the scene ends.<\/p>\n

[AMB]: Oh Kodai, you still have difficulties dealing with women. Can\u2019t even pretend to be stern. Yuki\u2019s spacewalk talk really shows how defiant she can be.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: Snarky Yuki is the best Yuki.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: For all my ravings about the greatness of Yamato<\/em>\u2019s music, this scene really stands out for its lack of it. Instead we hear the white noise of machines in the background as the silence grows more oppressive. Unlike in Farewell<\/em>, their standoff doesn\u2019t end in an embrace as a somber variation of the “Great Love” theme settles in, but instead leaves us on a cliffhanger. It\u2019s a much more nuanced and mature way of portraying a strained relationship, especially one where the partners are having difficulties understanding one another.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Dr. Sado\u2019s urgent matter is revealed, that being his treatment of the injured Ryu Hijikata. Philosophizing to himself, the disowned Captain says that he can still feel Okita\u2019s presence on the ship. Sado responds that he\u2019s with them all in spirit, but despite this the younger crew members need an adult figure to guide them on this journey. Sado leaves, and Ryu tells himself he\u2019s nothing more than a loser. A defeated man.<\/p>\n

[KC]: Anton, you know that I am terrible about paying attention to the Earthlings or bothering to read into their nuances. Can you explain to me why Hijikata is feeling so sorry for himself? Is he taking responsibility for the EDF choosing to essentially piss all over Okita\u2019s ideals?<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

[AMB]: I’m glad you asked! Following the EDF\u2019s decision to implement the WMG-fleet, Ryu was relegated to the defense of an insignificant frontier planet (the 11th) as punishment for voicing opposition, leaving Yamato<\/em> and its crew alone to deal with the military\u2019s expansionist policies. While there, he didn\u2019t bother to climb up the ranks again, nor did he help Yamato<\/em>\u2019s crew in any way, presumably to stay as far away as possible from the dark future creeping up behind Earth\u2019s back.<\/span><\/p>\n

He also failed to protect the 11th planet (either militarily or diplomatically) and wound up buried under rubble. He only survived because the ship he abandoned (Yamato<\/em>) saved him and now he regrets his inaction, reminded of Okita\u2019s brilliance as both a commander and human being. If you ask me, it seems like he feels inadequate to step into Okita\u2019s shoes as both mentor and Captain for these younglings. He sees himself as a true loser. <\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: That is unfortunate.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: Interestingly enough, one could even read this scene as being one big allegory for Mr. Habara taking the reins on Yamato 2202<\/em> as its director in spite of his feelings of inadequacy as we mentioned earlier. Or, in a broader sense, the reboot staff as a whole feeling the weight of completely reimagining such a classic saga, literally helming the ship called Yamato. We’ve seen this struggle conveyed by many on the staff filling the shoes of their predecessors, from Akira Miyagawa, Shoji Nishizaki and now in Habara Nobuyoshi.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Kodai splashes his face with water in a nearby restroom, staring himself down in the mirror. He\u2019s exhausted, stressed out and all on his own. But Shima turns up to assist his best friend, putting things plain and simple. Kodai\u2019s a wreck, and he won\u2019t make it if he bottles everything up. Ignoring Kodai’s directive to mind his own business, Shima reminds Kodai of the vision from Telezart received by every crew member. Kodai remembers Okita\u2019s order to \u201cshow his resolve,” and his stress amps up. Shima then asks if he believes everyone would have joined this voyage without seeing a vision of their own. <\/p>\n

[KC]: I feel that a lot of the camaraderie between the bridge crew in the original work is just presumed, so it is nice to see these two just being friends. <\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: Their friendship is as strong as ever, and Shima has no qualms with confronting his bestie when he\u2019s about to fall apart. But he\u2019s just trying to remind Kodai about the fact that a certain someone still joined up despite NOT receiving the vision from Telezart. So before Kodai makes a decision about Yuki, he should keep this in mind. <\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Back in her yellow uniform, Yuki is seen standing outside on the ship\u2019s hull. Her meditation is disrupted by Akira Yamamoto, jokingly recognizing that Yuki has blown her cover. It is then revealed that the entire crew was in on the deception to smuggle her on board. Yuki apologizes to Akira since their efforts were wasted, but her friend says it\u2019s okay, adding that there\u2019s a special and strong bond between the female crew of Yamato<\/em>. <\/p>\n

[AMB]: There sure is! Even between aliens. Which reminds me about Melda and Yurisha\u2019s antics with Akira in 2199<\/em> and how much levity they brought to the journey. This journey is different, as the show likes to remind us, but this scene still stands out as a nice heart-to-heart between good friends, reminding us of better times as the somber Ark of the Stars<\/em> rendition of the “energetic youth” theme from 2199<\/em> plays in the background. This is the first and only time we’ll hear it in 2202<\/em>, in fact.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: I’m probably jumping too far ahead of myself with this, but I’m still hoping for more ice cream socials in 2205<\/em>.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: Radio Yamato<\/em>, as well. Yuria\u2019s upbeat mood is sorely missed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Akira asks why Yuki allowed herself to be found out, and she says she just needed some fresh air, adding that \u201cnot all things last.” Akira asks if she\u2019s talking about Kodai, but Yuki concludes that she\u2019s just talking about herself. She understands that revealing herself might have reduced her odds of staying on board to help, but she didn\u2019t want to keep being a burden on the crew. And until Kodai tells her to leave the ship, she\u2019ll do her best to prove her worth in his eyes. With a light blush and a sad smile, she adds that she just wants Kodai to understand that she\u2019s here for him. The response catches Akira off-guard, causing both of them to laugh away the nervous atmosphere. Akira finishes their conversation by adding how much she envies the two of them.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

[AMB]: Bless Yuki and that smile of hers at the end. Instead of accepting her position and completely submitting to Kodai\u2019s will, she does what a partner is supposed to do in a difficult relationship. She tries to show him that she cares. Not only about him, but about his duties. What she wants most is to be relied upon, not discarded. Even if Kodai\u2019s take on the matter is different, him seeing her presence on this dangerous voyage as a danger to their future. I\u2019ve mentioned it before, but seeing your girlfriend kidnapped and then murdered probably makes you a bit paranoid about losing her.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: I’m still not sure if their awkwardness in this scene is a result of Akira having (having had?) feelings for Kodai herself or a general weirdness about discussing romantic\/personal troubles on the deck of a space battleship, so I will stick to analyzing the behavior of those blue folks.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: There\u2019s a certain sadness in Akira’s voice as she tells Yuki she envies them. Having someone to love who clearly loves them back is an alien concept to her (future pun intended), and while her feelings for Kodai have been resolved, their status as a loving pair is still very much sought after. She wants to love and be loved like Yuki.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: Patience, young pilot. Have patience. I assure you it will be rewarded.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: Temporarily. (Sorry, had to be done.)<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: There can be only one. \ud83d\ude09<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Back in one of Yamato<\/em>\u2019s restrooms, the two best buds are still butting heads as Shima confronts Kodai with the fact that Yuki joined this journey without even being called by Telezart, asking him why he thinks she did. Dumbstruck, Kodai is surprised that Shima knows this. But before Kodai can derail this conversation, Shima wedges his fist under his best friend\u2019s jaw and gives it to him straight yet again. \u201cStay true to yourself and don\u2019t feel any shame in depending on someone else. You can bring up military discipline all you want, but this is Yamato<\/em>.\u201d Kodai pouts as Shima winks at him, saying he\u2019ll look the other way, come what may. <\/p>\n

[KC]: I want to take a moment to ask where this Shima came from and what he did with his uptight doppelganger. I have a friend who may or may not read this commentary and her feelings and frustrations about Daisuke Shima are similar to mine regarding Talan. But while both characters will have their only significant plots edited out of this version of the story [SPOILER ALERT: I\u2019m pissed off about it], Shima at least seems to be getting more character development than he ever did before.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

[AMB]: I wouldn\u2019t say Talan\u2019s plot is cut out as much as it\u2019s cut short, but I get your frustration. As for Shima, I\u2019m still a bit disappointed that his connection with his kid brother isn\u2019t played with as much in this version, something I really enjoyed in Yamato 2<\/em>.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: That is exactly my issue; originally, Talan was always a step behind Dessler, whether we’re talking about Velte or Ghader. But he also got a nice spotlight when he helped Leader Dessler of Gamilas escape from Gatlantis. He even got to talk some shit about Sabera and be maudlin about his imprisoned boss. Now he\u2019s back to just \u2026 being there, in the background.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: Your head is filled with blue people. I mean, he hasn\u2019t even appeared yet… anyhow, this Shima rocks! In a way I think he\u2019s also repaying Kodai for making sure he didn\u2019t miss this voyage. Yuki clearly deserves the same respect, so stop sulking Kodai and tell your girl that you care. That you respect her will to join despite not being called upon. He wants Kodai to call for Yuki, in place of Teresa. The directing here is quite solid, I must say, especially in the body language between the best friends. <\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Yamato<\/em> departs from the 11th Planet, passing by the floating debris previously known as the distinguished 8th Task Force. Admiral Mazer stretches out his hand toward the ship in frustration at Yamato<\/em>\u2019s incomprehensible actions, muttering the fiendish ship\u2019s name over and over as it prepares to warp away. His rage builds up and he asks himself what this burning sensation is. What is the irrational emotion overtaking him? Yamato<\/em> vanishes into warp, he swears at the object of his newfound hatred.<\/p>\n

[AMB]: Speaking of solid direction, that sweeping shot of Yamato<\/em> passing by Mazer\u2019s arm gets me every time, as does the reflection of Yamato<\/em>\u2019s warp superimposed on Mazer\u2019s head to show his rage. So that\u2019s how it feels to be a sub-antagonist in a Yamato<\/em> show, huh?<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: Yeah, that boat tends to drive villains straight to Batshit Country. Pity this Mazer didn\u2019t have a Dessler to warn him in advance how infuriating these barbarians can be. But his lesson will come soon enough. [INSERT MANIACAL LAUGHTER HERE]<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: A harsh lesson. But just like with Nazca and Mazer last episode, this one starts peeling off the layers of emotion lurking within the Gatlanteans. Mazer is clearly having an identity crisis over the fact that he\u2019s experiencing something as simple to us as anger. The Gatlantean intrigue deepens.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Yamato<\/em> arrives 200,000 km away from Planet Stravaze as Yuki Mori steps onto the bridge dressed all in white (a classic costume we haven’t seen since Be Forever<\/em>). The crew watches in obvious discomfort as Kodai stiffly recites her new orders, to help escort the civilians to Earth aboard the inbound Garmillan vessels along with the Cosmo Marines. Their manner of speech is loveless and devoid of feeling. Confused by the tense atmosphere, Klaus looks around to assess the strange situation. Yamato<\/em> approaches Stravaze. <\/p>\n

[AMB]: Stravaze is a dark purple planet with red abrasions. It has its own purple ring and the core of the planet has been pierced by an Akerian rock formation similar to the cross-shaped object from Ark of the Stars<\/em> and Episode 1. The chart data for Stravaze mentions Akerian ruins being present, and as we\u2019ll soon find out it\u2019s definitely advantageous for someone who\u2019s been dying for an expedition.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

[KC]: Aliens, am I right, Klaus? I get that there needs to be relationship strife for reasons, but I\u2019m with Shima; this is getting old, fast.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: It\u2019s a priceless reaction though, really encapsulating how it feels like to be around a struggling couple. Especially one where you know they both really do love one another. Add in some alien confusion and Keyman\u2019s lack of knowledge about the couple’s history and you\u2019ve got comedy gold. On another note, it’s nice to see Yuki\u2019s uniform from Be Forever<\/em> again. It really suits her.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: Have no fear; there is a figure for that!<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: Go figure!<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Honoring her duties, Yuki\u2019s already preparing the civilians for their departure. Concerned with the origin of their Garmillas escorts, the Earthling refugees voice their worry to Yuki and Hirata, who try their best to calm the situation. Yuki\u2019s coming with them, but that’s not much of a reassurance. <\/p>\n

[KC]: Hey, if you Earthlings don\u2019t feel comfortable traveling back to safety with those blue folks you\u2019ve been living among, I would be happy to leave you here. Perhaps you can find some way to harness enough of the power of your own bigotry to make the return trip yourselves.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: I\u2019m not so sure they have a problem traveling with the other Garmillan refugees as much as they\u2019re worried about the ones escorting them to Earth. Garmillas is still in a transition period from dictatorship to democracy after all. Whereas the Garmillans revere Yamato<\/em> for saving them in 2199<\/em>, the Earthlings have been given no reason to trust an envoy sent from Garmillas itself. Especially after a decade of war. In real world terms, it would be like asking a group of Jews to be escorted home by the German military, three years after World War II.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

[KC]: Enh, I know my bias is strong, but the point of the show is to demonstrate how these people are like us, not to vilify them. Call it semantics, but while they may have chosen to give these former Space Fascists a German look and feel, going to war with an entire planet doesn\u2019t pack the same punch as singling out and demonizing a specific group of people, especially knowing the motivation behind it. And just because it makes sense that Earthlings would still fear and mistrust the Garmillas, that doesn\u2019t mean I can\u2019t be angry and sad about it.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: I don\u2019t condone it either. They shouldn’t voice their concerns in front of a young Garmillan girl who they\u2019ve lived alongside on the 11th planet, fanning the flames of fear. Their suspicion doesn\u2019t seem based in political unrest, but rather over the race of their escorts. And the scene\u2019s direction shows us that they\u2019re in the wrong here. Though with the gift of hindsight, knowing the escort vessels’ true allegiances\u2026 their doubt isn\u2019t unfounded.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: It\u2019s true those guys are there to do something shady, but they aren\u2019t looking to harm any of these people specifically.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: Most definitely not. We\u2019ll see more of how the newly arrived escort group miscalculated a certain something in the next episode.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

In come the Cosmo Marines. Saito is in a better mood than ever, excited about finally returning to Earth! He promises the worrywarts safe passage and arrival with their aid. Relieved, the old Earthlings and Yuki thank Saito\u2019s group for their company. With a worried expression, Nagakura mentions to Yuki that Saito now lives only for revenge against the Gatlanteans. Yuki seems to ponder that for a bit, but then gathers the courage to ask Saito a secret question.<\/p>\n

[AMB]: There\u2019s something beautiful about seeing Saito standing up for the Garmillan escorts, especially considering he lost a great many friends in the war against Garmillas. That man and his Cosmo Marines protected the 11th planet with their lives, for Garmillans and Earthlings alike. It\u2019s disheartening at this point to hear that the Commander has decided to live for revenge until this is over, and Nagakura seems to agree with me on that. <\/span><\/p>\n

Now that we know Saito\u2019s a living dead body however, what kind of information do we think Yuki let slip when asking Saito her secret question? It undoubtedly contained information which Zordar will use against Kodai next episode, but since it\u2019s never revealed we can only speculate.<\/span> <\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Kodai trudges through the halls with low spirits. He enters the observation deck without notice, then sees Saito patting Yuki\u2019s shoulder. This leaves him dazed, until the Cosmo Marine Captain passes him by, nudging his shoulder and telling him he\u2019s found himself a responsible and attractive woman. The two former lovers are so close, yet so far apart, neither saying a word in the now empty hall.<\/p>\n

[AMB]: One wonders what Yuki asked Saito, but I have good guess. Either she asked him what it’s like to have lost something precious in war and what drives him, maybe even opening up about some of her troubles with understanding Kodai. Or, she asked him how to best look after the refugees during the trip and how to better make them trust and rely on her as they do the Cosmo Marines like Saito.<\/p>\n

[KC]: Oh, put her in peril, already. I’m bored with all this moping around.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: This is good drama, though! This section is probably harder to appreciate on repeat viewings, but the setup is worth what\u2019s to come next episode. <\/span><\/p>\n

Can we also take the time to appreciate the fact that Saito doesn\u2019t make moves on Yuki in this version, instead commending her partner for picking a responsible woman? A fleeting moment, but one that shows Saito can see Kodai as both a Captain and a person separately. Then there’s the shot of Kodai and Yuki separated by a gap in the observation deck, a shot which really helps emphasize the distance between them. This episode in particular has some really creative visual direction, mostly dealing with camera placement.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: Saito has been improved by leaps and bounds in this version. Pity the poor bastard has been compromised. On the subject of Kodai and Yuki, you\u2019re right; romantic angst is my most favorite kind of angst, but I have already watched this episode too many times, heh.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

As Yamato<\/em> descends to land on Stravaze, it passes by some old Akerian ruins, much to Professor Redrowz\u2019 pleasure. Apparently he gained the info on these ruins from the Garmillans. Revealing to us his desire to unearth the mysteries behind the long lost civilization of Akerius, he wants nothing more than to study these structures. And behind him, his assistant Touko boldly urges him to create an opportunity to do so himself. Her wicked smile is met with an expression of cold conviction.<\/p>\n

[KC]: She is the one with power here. She is the one who says stay or go. (Sorry, I couldn\u2019t resist.)<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: I can\u2019t argue. Curse you Star Blazers<\/em> Sabera! This part of her character where she swindles others into doing her bidding with her snake\u2019s tongue is a neat element carried over from her Yamato 2<\/em> counterpart.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

[KC]: I hated her to pieces as Invidia, but she certainly left an impression and I have a hard time not hearing Touko\u2019s lines being delivered in a Slavic accent.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: If Sabera is Invidia in Star Blazers<\/em> does that mean Zordar is AMD?<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: It\u2019s funny because in canon Gatlanteans are useless drones who need to steal their tech from others.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Yamato<\/em> lands on a giant stone bridge, meeting up with their punctual Garmillan allies, their group dispersed among two Destria ships and one Kelkapia. The civilians exit the hangar bay to wait for further instructions. (Fortunately, there seems to be ample breathable air on this overtly volcanic planet). In the meantime, Sanada and Keyman greet the Garmillan commander Kazette in his cruiser, surrounded by several Garmillan officers to finalize the refugee transfer. <\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

[AMB]: The two groups landing is framed like a western standoff at first, but with ships. The director even makes sure to sweep the camera from one side of the bridge to the other to put everything into perspective. And hey, a new Garmillan character! Happy now, Kathy?<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: Kazette has a pretty cool look, but I already had a whole series of Garmillas world-building and character introductions. I would trade all of these extra guys for some indication of what General Talan is up to at the moment.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: Probably fishing for his dead brother. Or his dead leader. Or his dead presence. I\u2019m fine with waiting. <\/span><\/p>\n

Expressing Yamato<\/em>\u2019s gratitude, Sanada apologizes on behalf of his crew for not escorting the civilians themselves. But Kazette says he doesn\u2019t mind this burden, revealing that he\u2019s anticipating the results of their expedition, since Telezart is one of the great mysteries. Sanada starts to leave, but Klaus is asked to stay for further discussion on who’s to be his substitute correspondent at the embassy. Sanada leaves the Garmillans to their own devices – and then they all bow down to Keyman.<\/p>\n

[AMB]: Many jaws dropped at this moment. Including mine. Substitute correspondent discussion my ass, these guys ain’t no embassy workers!<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

[KC]: My, my. This IS an interesting development. Now why would they be treating this Lieutenant, with his blonde hair and cool demeanor, as if he\u2019s royalty? Who could Klaus POSSIBLY be related to? Of course we already know, but I\u2019m still gonna make you wait for me to talk about it. <\/span><\/p>\n

Extending his deep condolences over leaving Klaus to “bear such a burden as this,” our calm and collected emissary brushes his concerns aside, asking Kazette for the “thing” he wanted. There is gloom in the young man\u2019s eyes as he asks this. Kazette answers, stating that he didn\u2019t believe Klaus could plan for such an inconspicuous way for them to meet up, crediting the young man\u2019s blessed lineage. <\/p>\n

\u201cIrrelevant\u201d says Keyman while averting his gaze, citing mere happenstance responsible for this situation. A Garmillan officer walks up to him with a black box; inside are two devices imbued with the ability to control or even destroy Yamato<\/em>\u2019s engine if need be. Keyman stares at the devices in wonder, uttering the name of this technology. \u201cAnti-wave motion photon\/lattice.”<\/p>\n

[AMB]: Now this raises the stakes quite a bit. Keyman, whose allegiance is currently unknown to the audience, potentially has the ability to shut down Yamato<\/em>\u2019s engine at will from this point onward. Why would he do so? Who is he? Why are these men bowing to him? We\u2019ll find out in due time. Something worth noting about the direction and art design here is that the Garmillan vessel has holographic displays of both the Garmillan flag and Earth\u2019s flag, showing some real effort toward peace, if only formal. And the moment Sanada steps out, Keyman is placed between the two flags, showing how his allegiance is very much stuck between these two nations. The fact that the scene is accompanied by one of the softer renditions of the Garmillas national anthem from Ark of the Stars<\/em> is just icing on the cake.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

[KC]: \u201cBLESSED LINEAGE?\u201d BWA HA HA HA HA HA! Come on, now. It\u2019s no secret that if that family is anything, it\u2019s straight up cursed.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: I was deep inside the speculation swamp during the time when answers weren\u2019t available. Was Keyman actually Dessler using that skin-changing technology and a voice changer? Was he a secret son? A nephew? Or just a puppet? Or was he somehow just\u2026 a guy, acting as if he\u2019s from a certain noble house? They were all perfectly valid to me, and this mystery box of a scene does its best to not reveal anything else. <\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: My memory is fuzzy, but I’m pretty sure I also speculated on Keyman being Abelt in disguise or Abelt\u2019s son. I don\u2019t think I ever considered that he might be Abelt\u2019s nephew because I never expected them to give Abelt a family. The boss never got one. Now I’m sad for him.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: Well, it’s not a spoiler any more; he\u2019s Ranhalt Dessler, Abelt\u2019s nephew. In a few episodes, this man\u2019s motivations will get tricky to trace and hard to explain, so let\u2019s begin with some basics. At this point in the story, he\u2019s been sent by Burrel (who serves the democratic faction on Garmillas under Hyss) as part of their own CIA. Klaus has orders to guide Yamato<\/em> toward Telezart – and to find\/expose the Dessler faction\u2019s secret mastermind, who has plagued Garmillas since the end of the last war.<\/span> <\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Kazette\u2019s group is from<\/em> the Dessler faction, and they\u2019re being tricked into thinking Ranhalt wants to be their figurehead. What we can discuss, though, is if we believe Ranhalt was a believer in any of these factions at this point. What do you think Kathy? At any rate, another Dessler has been granted a dangerous weapon. <\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: At this point in the story, his uncle is still a huge d-bag, so anyone else is an improvement. Actually, before the show played out, I was going with the theory that the character of Klaus\/Ranhalt was there to flat out replace Abelt and undergo the transition from villain to ally in Dessler’s place. At this stage of 2202<\/em>, Abelt hadn\u2019t shown up yet and I stopped expecting him to. Turns out I was wrong. And right.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: All these insults hurled at my beautiful Abelt. But I shall refrain from rashness and bide my time\u2026 <\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: When we finally get there, if I recall correctly, he\u2019s going to agree with me.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: Certainly regarding his final actions, but his reasons and motives were always obscure and hidden in nuance. When that’s laid bare more openly, we’ll have a field day discussing it.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Outside Yamato<\/em>\u2019s hangar the civilian transfer is proceeding accordingly, everyone forming groups. Irii jumps out of her caretaker\u2019s arms to greet Touko, who\u2019s staring out across the volcanic plains. The girl\u2019s friendliness and insistence on calling Katsuragi the English equivalent of \u201cnice lady\u201d surprises her, then Irii asks if she\u2019ll join them on the transfer ships. She says she will, and this prompts the excited Garmillan girl to ask if they\u2019ll be able to meet again on Earth. A promise is exchanged as the girl extends her arms, inviting a goodbye hug. At first Touko seems to be at a loss, but then accepts the girl\u2019s embrace. A familiar feeling strikes her along with a dim, blurry memory. Touko is stunned in Irii\u2019s embrace.<\/p>\n

[KC]: Congratulations, Katsuragi. You have just contracted the virus known as Human Emotion.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

[AMB]: Or reawakened it. But if we\u2019re being honest, whose humanity wouldn\u2019t be reawakened if hugged by this precious Garmillan girl? I\u2019ve seen fan art of her spending time with Tsubasa and Makoto, something I completely endorse. More wholesome family moments in the future, please.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: Well, Irii is adorable and this Touko isn\u2019t half the bitch that her predecessor was.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: As those who\u2019ve seen the rest of the show already know, the image that flashes in Touko\u2019s mind is of the original Sabera carrying a baby. A green baby, just like the hue fogging up her memory. So what happens here is her maternal instincts kicking in despite measures taken to suppress them, something we’ll learn soon enough.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Yuki is finishing up her preparations with Nagakura. She\u2019s been granted some short-distance communication gear that allows for the crew to maintain communications between the escort ships. Yuki questions why she should get such amazing equipment, but Shiori sighs and says her commander insisted on it, winking at Yuki.<\/p>\n

[KC]: Is Saito\u2019s plan to use jealousy to get Kodai to stop being a dink? Am I reading too much into this or not enough?<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: This is probably one of those moments where Saito\u2019s kind heart perfectly aligns with Zordar\u2019s grim motives. This way, Yuki and Kodai can contact one another at a certain moment next episode, pleasing Zordar. And from Saito\u2019s point of view, he\u2019s doing this to make sure the two lovers can properly say their goodbyes. Awfully poetic, I know. Whether Zordar planned for this or not, it works both in his favor and against it. But more on that next episode.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: Oh, Space Bear \u2026 <\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Saito bids farewell to the defeated Hijikata in the hospital ward, pouring a cup of sake for each of them. It’s a solemn affair. Saito questions Hijikata\u2019s decision to stay onboard a dispirited coward\u2019s ship and asks why he won\u2019t join him on another Earth ship capable of fighting their sworn enemy. The gruff old Captain responds in a simple manner, telling Saito that he wishes to stay with the ship that his best friend, Okita, put his life on the line for. He\u2019ll stay here until his final moment. Saito is silently impressed.<\/p>\n

[AMB]: At this point I believe Saito is really starting to warm up to Yamato<\/em> and its unique quirks. He doesn\u2019t yet understand why, but he no longer feels as reluctant to stay on the ship as he did before. For this is not a ship of cowards, it\u2019s filled to the brim with souls unafraid to pursue their own ideals, regardless of doctrine. Fun fact, on the sake bottle one can read that the rice wine shares the name of Sado himself. This is because Sado, in turn, was named after an island in the Sea of Japan that is famous for its rice wine breweries. This could perhaps even hint at Sado’s family history as sake brewers in-universe.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

While waiting with the civilians, Yuki longs for a certain someone to make their appearance before the transfer begins, gazing longingly at the hangar bay. That someone is on the bridge, staring at the engagement ring Yuki returned to him. Tokugawa, Sanada and Shima do their best to not so subtly push him in the right direction. \u201cPerhaps a certain Acting Captain should say something to Yamato<\/em>\u2019s representative,” they suggest. Kodai springs to action immediately, dashing toward the hangar bay.<\/p>\n

[KC]: Wow, Kodai. It took three guys, huh? You better get back on that horse quickly because things are about to go bonkers.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: As you noted earlier, the camaraderie is really strong in this episode, giving us some levity before the tragedies about to unfold. If Kodai can\u2019t say all that he\u2019s got locked up in his chest before Yuki leaves, the regret will make everything harder.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Just when Yuki thinks Kodai won\u2019t show, she feels a strange sensation as if pulled by someone\u2019s presence. Kodai skids to the top of the ramp, gasping for breath. He makes his way down, uttering her name to himself, but Yuki looks both relieved and distraught. But before Kodai can reach her, someone hijacks a Type 100 recon plane! Touko, who\u2019s close by, reveals that it\u2019s none other than Professor Redrowz.<\/p>\n

[AMB]: Just as things progress toward their natural conclusion, the nutty Professor finds that opportunity Touko hinted at earlier. The angst is killing me, please just let the couple hug each other. This is a good opportunity to mention the theme of Chapter 3 (eps 7-10). Its theatrical title Pure Love Chapter<\/em> is self-explanatory, but what pure love truly entails is just around the corner. <\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Sanada radios Kodai, who\u2019s now on board a Space Boat (The Ki-8 \u201cStork\u201d from Ark of the Stars<\/em>) with Katsuragi to pursue Redrowz. He\u2019s heading toward the ruins, so Kodai departs to stop him, leaving the ship in Sanada\u2019s care. Yuki laments not being able to say goodbye. On the bridge, Sanada is left puzzled by these strange ongoings as Keyman checks his clock and prepares to leave the bridge. <\/p>\n

[KC]: Dear me, look at the time. Me and my blessed lineage have a date with sabotage. Toodles!<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: Sanada\u2019s suspicion at the beginning of the episode is really starting to seem more credible.<\/span> <\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

The Stork reaches its goal, finding the Professor\u2019s plane near an entrance into the ruins. The place is a jumble of rectangular shapes bearing intricate inscriptions. The pair walk past obsidian obelisks toward a bright light at the end of a bridge with flashlight in hand. Kodai openly asks what this place is supposed to be, wondering about the Professor\u2019s intentions.<\/p>\n

[AMB]: Creepy place, creepy vibes. A distinct architectural style is quite noticeable though, so much so that we wouldn\u2019t even have needed to hear that these were Akerian ruins. The dark expression on Touko\u2019s face as she trails behind Kodai helps add to the uneasiness.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

The troubles don\u2019t end there, for an entire fleet is detected by Miki Saijo on Yamato<\/em>\u2019s bridge, their signals emerging from Stravaze\u2019s dense clouds. Garmillan ships, led by a Zoellegut-class battleship. Shima turns to Keyman in astonishment, but he\u2019s gone. This new fleet fires a volley of missiles toward the bridge where Keyman\u2019s allies await the refugees, but Yamato<\/em> intercepts them in the nick of time. Crew and civilians out on the bridge are shocked.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

[AMB]: The SFX work on the new Garmillan fleet passing through the clouds is exceptionally well-crafted, immersive and beautiful to behold. Of course the environment mimics the state of panic, a storm brewing in the clouds. Red filigree covers the Zoellegut and the varied perspective shots of the missiles being fired really shows how large and dangerous they are in comparison to the puny people on the bridge. <\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: Meanwhile, folks following along at home are confused. How many factions of Garmillas are there, exactly? Somebody really needs to unite all these disparate groups. Preferably somebody with an overabundance of charisma and an exceptional cape.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

[AMB]: We could play into the confusion for increased effect, but instead I just want to remind people that Yamato<\/em> is currently protecting remnants of the Dessler regime. Just keep this in mind and the confusion will abate. And can someone please give Sanada something heavy to drink? His eyes are about to pop out of his skull, he needs to calm his nerves. Wait, if he\u2019s nervous enough to show it outright, this is a pretty bad situation isn\u2019t it?<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Back in the ruins, our two-man team reaches a dead end near some crystalline obelisks, mounting up toward what appears to be a cave painting of Teresa surrounded by odd symbols. Before Kodai can distinguish any more detail however, he is knocked out from behind. Aihara tries hailing him on his communication gear, but no one responds.<\/p>\n

[AMB]: This cave painting will come into better view later. For now, I\u2019d like to discuss the fact that the symbols etched into the ground bear striking similarities to those covering the Zoellegut up above, and by extension those shown on the space cross in Ark of the Stars<\/em>. Was this done to show a connection? Am I seeing connections where there aren\u2019t any? Or was it just Assistant Director Makoto Kobayashi doing his Kobayashi thing in two places? The sound design inside the cave is very unsettling, reminding me of Akira Yamaoka\u2019s haunting work for the Silent Hill<\/em> game franchise. It uses the echoing effect of the cave and merges it with dark brooding sounds. <\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: I do like the look and feel of these ruins a lot, and those symbols are very familiar, but I don\u2019t know that we ever get a direct answer in this series. Based on Ark<\/em> and my extensive knowledge of the Stargate<\/em> franchise I\u2019m just presuming that the humanoid races use that design because they all originated from this same ancient civilization; something I hope future series delve into a bit more.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

The hostile Garmillan fleet relentlessly continues its assault, one stray missile slipping past Yamato<\/em>\u2019s defenses. Saito runs out yelling danger, seemingly trying to stop more civilians from crossing the bridge in any direction. But he\u2019s too late – a large gap is blown out of the bridge by the missile. Unable to keep his promise to join them on their voyage to Earth, he shouts at them to run for the allied Garmillan ships. He then orders everyone left on their side of the bridge (which no longer includes Yuki, alas) back onto Yamato<\/em>.<\/p>\n

[AMB]: This is a very tense situation, since Yamato<\/em> can\u2019t directly shoot the enemy in fear of debris dropping on the refugees. And Saito is an action hero I\u2019ll root for any day. Aside from wanting to save people though, do you think he ran toward the escort ships to leave Yamato<\/em> for good, even at the cost of abandoning his Cosmo Marine unit? I\u2019m entertaining the thought as we speak, but I don\u2019t think that\u2019s the case.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\u201cDestructive Liberation Army\u201d is the name of the hostile fleet according to Kazette, who is now speaking to Sanada on the bridge\u2019s viewscreen. He states that they\u2019re political criminals rebelling against Garmillas and that this is a chance encounter. Prior to this, his unit has only fought them in places beyond this travel route. The Liberation Army\u2019s priest then speaks aboard his Zoellegut, proclaiming that Dessler\u2019s influence still clings to every planet in the Garmillas empire, haunting them to this day. Their aim is to liberate all planets still under Dessler\u2019s shadow, a judgement delivered posthumously upon \u201cthe rotten dictator.”<\/p>\n

[AMB]: Despite knowing who Kazette really serves, I don\u2019t doubt his words at all. The peril facing them is most definitely a violent rebel group, but one with some truth to speak. It\u2019s funny to me that one of our first indications of the current situation on Garmillas is delivered by an anti-Dessler cult pointing fingers at what we should believe to just be a regular Garmillan fleet. With the context of our prior scene with Kazette in mind, however, it\u2019s easy to put the puzzle pieces together. In short, the political state of Garmillas still seems pretty shaky.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

[KC]: So for those keeping score, there is the known Garmillas government (now a democracy), a secret (pro-Dessler) faction within that government that wants to be a military regime again, and this separate group of rebels that doesn\u2019t trust any of them.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: The democratic faction is still a military regime though. What the Dessler remnants want will be revealed in due time. Also, the priest\u2019s scarf has a modified version of the Garmillas flag, clearly showing us that he\u2019s not only a rebel, but a secessionist. <\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: First time I saw this guy was without his dialogue translated. With no context, I figured he was a callback to General Gaidel from the original third series, although Gaidel himself, in contrast, was a big, big fan of His Majesty. I always thought that symbol that looks like a backward four with spikes coming out of it was the Dessler family crest or something, so it makes sense that we see a different symbol on the scarf.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Kazette continues his conversation with Sanada, informing him that his ships can\u2019t move until the civilian transfer is complete. Therefore they can only put their trust in Yamato<\/em>. Sanada realizes they\u2019re more or less an impromptu, Captain-less shield, having to fight the bulk of the fires from the sky. <\/p>\n

[AMB]: Having spent quite a bit of time with the refugees, I\u2019m worried for their sake. <\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: Having spent quite a bit of time with this show, I\u2019m with you on that.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: Sanada\u2019s tense mood is a direct narrative follow-up to the words he exchanged with Kodai in Episode 4, where he mentioned how he feels inadequate as a Captain due to his overtly logical nature, which cost many lives in 2199<\/em> during their bout with the dimensional submarine. The fear of being responsible for even more deaths is shaking him to his core.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Kazette\u2019s subordinate confirms Yamato<\/em>\u2019s prep for liftoff, and the Garmillan Captain is satisfied. The Liberation Army was actually lured here by Keyman\u2019s friends with the express purpose of giving Klaus an opportunity to do something under cover of this confusion. Specifically, Klaus plants a part of the Wave-Motion photon\/lattice inside the Wave-Motion Engine. It can only be done during the precise moment when the engine starts up, and he nails it. Tokugawa notices an anomaly on his monitor, but doesn\u2019t pursue it in the midst of the ensuing chaos.<\/p>\n

[AMB]: These sly foxes finally show their true colors. A very elaborate setup, possibly explaining how the Liberation Army got here, by Kazette leading them to Stravaze all the way from Garmillas. Gotta say, his beard is pretty cool.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: See? It might be annoying how much I bring up Talan, but that\u2019s because he\u2019s not a two-faced jerk like so many of these guys. I may prefer to focus on Garmillas in general, but at the end of the day there are really only six Garmillas folks that I genuinely like and one of them is dead now.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: He’s been dead for years. Anyhow, good job Keyman! Looking forward to seeing how that tool of his will be put to use for the rest of the series, and trust me it will. Also, it\u2019s a small detail but I appreciate the fact that Tokugawa noticed something happening to his engine. <\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

While Yuki\u2019s doing her best to calm the civilians, Yamato<\/em> starts to rise. She holds Irii tight as it leaves, muttering the ship\u2019s name to herself. Sanada asks Aihara for an update on Kodai\u2019s status, but he still won\u2019t respond. At that moment however, Touko returns with the Stork. Alone. Sanada looks like he’s ready to crumble under all this pressure, asking himself with a grave tone of voice where Kodai went.<\/p>\n

[AMB]: Garmillan conspiracies among remnants and rebels, Keyman\u2019s ambiguous nature, Touko’s sly moves, refugees running for their lives and Kodai knocked out somewhere, separated from Yuki\u2026 what a wild wild day! But the stakes are set, the intrigue has deepened, and we\u2019re at the perfect point for a cliffhanger! Wait\u2014<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/span><\/p>\n

Kodai wakes up on the cold floor of the ruins, hearing Redrowz\u2019s voice giving a passionate speech about Akerius, \u201cthe origin of all humanity.” He questions their actions, spreading the seeds of humanity to all corners of the galaxy, asking the stone wall image of Teresa if it was done in order to nurture their successors, since Akerius had reached the end of its own civilization. But what bothers him most is that the Akerians chose the inheritors of their ancient legacy, to be shaped in humanoid forms. The very form of life which brought on the Akerians\u2019 death. <\/p>\n

[AMB]: Ever since the hints in 2199<\/em> and our deep dive into Akerian lore in Ark<\/em> I\u2019ve been dying to know more about this long-gone race. What he\u2019s referencing here is what was told by the Jirellan Lerelai in Ark<\/em>, about the spreading of humanity across the stars. But he raises a great question; why were we shaped in this limited human form, capable of dying?<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: Is that a rhetorical question? Because I feel like I know the answer, but it is kind of a smartass answer. <\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: Rhetorical. The cave painting of Teresa is a very interesting piece of art, so let\u2019s move on to dissect it. It seems to depict Teresa sitting in-between two tall obelisks, perhaps the same kind of crystals used by Gatlantis at various points in 2202<\/em> to project images and thoughts, which we\u2019ll soon see an example of. <\/span><\/p>\n

She\u2019s kneeling on top of two Arks, which resemble eyes. One could be the Ark of Tranquility, currently in use by the Jirellan vagabonds. Below them is a large spiraling shape, evidently the white comet. Her hair spreads out across the painting like the branches of a tree, forming small round shapes growing into larger round shapes, maybe symbolizing stars and planets. Large pillars of rock are also depicted, bearing similar texture to the cross structures we\u2019ve seen. The most ambiguous parts of the painting are the two large glowing orbs shown on either side of her. I believe these two are supposed to be the Ark of Creation and the Ark of Destruction, elements which will come into play much much later. <\/span><\/p>\n


\nThe complete hieroglyph is much wider than what is seen on screen<\/em><\/p>\n

For fans and dissenters of Makoto Kobayashi alike, we can also see 2202<\/em>\u2019s well-known filigree pattern on some of the pillars, suggesting it may be an inherited design from Akerius. <\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: Yes, I maybe got ahead of myself when I referenced this design choice earlier, which is all over the Garmillas ships and the former Imperial Palace.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: Still, good catch!<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Redrowz starts walking toward Kodai, explaining with disgust that human beings are irrational life forms, incapable of reproducing without the process of breeding between male and female. Stealing. Hating. Killing. Humans are the source of the chaos which disrupts the harmony of the cosmos. \u201cI\u2019ve been waiting for you,” the Professor says. Kodai responds by asking who he\u2019s talking to. The makeshift auditorium morphs, shifting from the ruins of Stravaze to Zordar\u2019s throne room. His response is slow and filled with malicious intent.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\u201cMy name is Zordar\u2026 the man who knows all about love\u2026 more so than anyone else in the universe.\u201d<\/p>\n

[AMB]: Enter Zordar! The man who understands love. Already an iconic entrance, this scene amps up the mysticism and existentialist terror of 2202<\/em> to the max! Everything from the uncomfortable atmosphere, to Takaya Hashi\u2019s (Redrowz) voice transitioning into Hideaki Tezuka\u2019s (Zordar) and the brooding BGM track Ark of Destruction<\/em> caps this moment splendidly. <\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

This Zordar really indulges in his theatrics and boy oh boy is this tingling my Lovecraft nerve. The way they visualize Zordar probing into Kodai\u2019s mind is terrifying, the splendor and might of Gatlantis confronting Yamato<\/em>\u2019s captain alone. Most shows would use the tension of battling the antagonist to stoke the fires of excitement, but this show has an antagonist who wants to talk with our hero. And this is just Episode 8 – not even at the mid point of the show – timed perfectly with Yamato<\/em> being at a disadvantage. Kodai has been wracked by inner turmoil only for the leader of the enemy to stare him down inside the ruins of an ancient civilization. I would not want to be Kodai right now.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: In 2199<\/em>, despite the design differences that I also complain about, Abelt Dessler was essentially just a more fleshed out, less campy version of the original character. Here, now, we get the first inkling that Original Zordar and New Zordar are similar in appearance only.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: And even then they fixed the pockets of bald space underneath his eyebrows this time around!<\/span><\/p>\n

Kodai is paralyzed, his eyes widen in terror upon seeing the smiling face of Gatlantis\u2019 emperor right in front of him as the music softly plays out its final notes with Stravaze as its backdrop.<\/p>\n

[AMB]: The best way to describe this episode is that it deepens the intrigue and mystery, slows down the pace to allow for some personal interactions, and ends in terror. Garmillans, Gatlanteans, Yamato<\/em>\u2019s crew and Akerius alike get their fair share of the spotlight, half-answering questions only to create more questions. It\u2019s quite a ride!<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Coda<\/h3>\n

Theatrical release: Space Battleship Yamato 2202, Soldiers of Love<\/em> Chapter 3: Pure Love Chapter<\/em> contained episodes 7-10. It premiered in Japanese theaters October 14, 2017.<\/p>\n

Japanese video: Theater-exclusive Blu-ray October 14, 2017. Standard Blu-ray & DVD November 24, 2017<\/p>\n

First Japanese TV broadcast: November 23, 2018<\/p>\n

American debut: June 27, 2018 (streaming) March 15, 2019 (home video)<\/p>\n

The end title You, Petal<\/em> is performed by Shino Arima.<\/p>\n

Click here<\/a> for a complete BGM collection for Episode 8.<\/p>\n

Episode credits<\/em>
\nStoryboard\/Episode Director: Takao Kato
\nAnimation Directors: Hiroki Takaki, Akahisa Maeda, Mitsuru Ishihara<\/p>\n

Series credits<\/em>
\nWriter: Harutoshi Fukui
\nScriptwriter: Hideki Oka
\nDirector: Nobuyoshi Habara, Xebec Studio
\nAssistant Director: Makoto Kobayashi
\nArt Director: Yoshio Tanioka
\nCG Animation Director: Yuuto Uwabo, Sublimation Studio
\nMusic: Akira Miyagawa, Hiroshi Miyagawa
\nExecutive Producer: Shoji Nishizaki<\/p>\n

Continue to Episode 9<\/a>
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