{"id":28872,"date":"2019-09-11T18:07:55","date_gmt":"2019-09-12T01:07:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ourstarblazers.com\/vault\/?p=28872"},"modified":"2023-02-14T13:58:14","modified_gmt":"2023-02-14T21:58:14","slug":"491a","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.ourstarblazers.com\/vault\/491a\/","title":{"rendered":"Yamato 2202<\/em> Episode 15 commentary, part 2"},"content":{"rendered":"

<\/p>\n

Back up to part 1<\/a><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

As Dessler continues to speak, we see the familiar sight of thousands upon thousands or Gatlantean vessels in formation inside the White Comet before we return to Telezart and Dessler scowling at the orb. \u201cWith their power, it is not impossible to grant my wish. I wasn\u2019t expecting anything from God. The reason I came was to get material for negotiating with Gatlantis. That means you people, who seek to liberate Telezart, are my enemies once again.\u201d<\/p>\n

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

[AMB]: This is depressingly hilarious to me. Abelt considers his life a sham of fate, with Yamato<\/em> being the cherry on top. Having finally found a way to get his wish granted again (Garmillas-related *cough cough*), Yamato<\/em> stands in his way as agents of fate and destiny. He seems to find this ironically amusing, yet frustrating.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: Wow, these Desslers really love to monologue. This is interesting, because he is being pretty candid with them and also still confrontational. Fans of the original series are very familiar with Leader Dessler\u2019s last minute change of heart in the war with the Comet Empire, so for 2202<\/em> to play out with Abelt in similar fashion would be disappointingly anticlimactic and not very worthy of the character, in my opinion.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

[AMB]: So you\u2019re saying a consistent character can change while still staying consistent with previously established character traits, but changing things up out of nowhere is jarring and disappointing? If so, I agree, and this development is both an interesting and respectable take on not only 2199<\/em>\u2019s Abelt, but original Farewell to Yamato<\/em> Dessler. On the topic of his wish\u2026 let\u2019s leave that for later this episode when it\u2019s revealed.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: No, I can be fine with changes out of left field if they\u2019re good; I just meant that doing Abelt Dessler\u2019s arc the same exact way they did it before would have been a wasted opportunity.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Sanada asks Dessler if he knows why Zordar is sealing away Teresa\u2019s power, and Dessler seems pretty annoyed at the implication that he wouldn\u2019t. Sanada goes on to observe that even if Gatlantis agrees to negotiate with Dessler, it would only be temporary. Sanada is about to tell Dessler what he believes Zordar wants Teresa\u2019s power for, when Dessler is contacted by General Talan. \u201cSupreme Leader, I have less than good news to report.\u201d He informs Dessler that Yamato<\/em> is moving and he will prepare to intercept, causing Abelt to frown ambiguously.<\/p>\n

[AMB]: As we’ll find out in episode 17, Sanada believes Zordar is attempting to absorb Teresa’s power, using it to drag her out of her shell of a world when the time is right. Teresa exists in a dimension where time is visualized, seeing fate change in response to the actions of individuals. But if she were to descend to our world, fate would become rigid, unable to steer off whatever course it’s set on at her time of descent. Zordar will stack the cards of fate in his favor, only to canonize his odds by dragging the dimensional entity down. Were it so easy… this is why Sanada questions the feasibility of Dessler’s plan, seeing as mankind as a whole will still be doomed.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: Did Dessler just talk to Talan on some kind of wrist communicator? Outstanding. Is there going to be a book where I can get a look at this device? Also, I love the way Sanada goes into lecture mode like Dessler is just some guy.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

[AMB]: Dessler and Talan are slowly moving to become the companions they were in the originals, perhaps paving the way for their right future in the sequel huh? *wink*<\/span><\/p>\n

And I don\u2019t think he has a wrist communicator. He\u2019s most likely just pressing an answer call button on that neck device he had in 2199<\/em>. Positioning checks out too.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: Ah, like the translators? Also a neat little piece of added technology.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: Let’s return to Abelt. His reaction here is curious, as if he finds the development of Yamato<\/em>\u2019s forceful resistance to be unfortunate. Or maybe, based on later events, he\u2019s having trouble comprehending how relentless Yamato<\/em> is in abiding by its crew\u2019s ideals even with force. With bad odds, the ship still rejects the reality of its predicament.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Up in the atmosphere, Yamato<\/em> runs through the Garmillas fleet taking down three blue battle cruisers, weapons firing desperately. While everyone is focused on them, Keyman peels away toward the surface in a lone Czvarke.<\/p>\n

Nagakura charges into the Telezarium in her mobile armor, guns blazing at Dessler\u2019s Needle Slaves. Saito angrily asks what she\u2019s doing, to which she happily responds with \u201cjust disobeying orders.\u201d<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Then we see some incredible evasive piloting by Shima as Yamato<\/em> avoids a barrage of laser fire from the main guns of Talan\u2019s red cruiser, sliding along the watery surface. As they fire along its underbelly, Shima flies Yamato<\/em> right underneath it and away, knocking off one of the Gelvadez\u2019 back spoilers. Now that Nagakura has started hostilities again, Saito and Sanada have taken cover and are firing on the Needle Slaves with their sidearms from cover.<\/p>\n

[AMB]: Short, concise and riveting. Hijikata gets to show his guts instead of attempting to surrender due to bad odds and Nagakura shows her loyalty toward her comrades over military protocol. And building on Kodai\u2019s \u201ccan you ride the wave, Shima?\u201d remark from Episode 11, Shima gets to Nascar-slide Yamato<\/em> over the water as if this were an episode of Initial D,<\/em> the weight of the ship fully considered by Sublimation Studio in some spectacular camera work.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

The question of how Nagakura got to the Telezarium is worth bringing up, since we last left her watching Saito\u2019s back, then learned she never arrived back on Yamato<\/em>. After escorting the wounded, she\u2019s presumed to have gone back at full speed without asking for permission, hinted at by Miki Saijo, who couldn\u2019t find her readings. There are instances in this show where some transition scenes are omitted for dramatic effect or to appease episode length, this one being the former.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Diving down to the surface of the water comes Keyman in his Czvarke, water rising in his wake. He recalls moments that led him to this point. Ambassador Burrel on Earth telling him that his road is a lonely one. That he must deceive everyone involved with him. The Dessler remnants led by Kazette kneeling before Klaus as they deliver the Anti Wave-Motion Lattice, admitting that under different circumstances, he shouldn\u2019t have to be entrusted with such a task. Katsuragi\u00a0assuring\u00a0him that he will eventually betray Yamato<\/em>. <\/p>\n

With a grunt of determination, Keyman continues on as the stormy clouds of war rage behind him. Once he reaches sea level and Dessler\u2019s battleship is behind them, Yamato<\/em> ascends, but we see Dessler\u2019s flagship coming up alongside.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

[AMB]: I\u2019ve gushed about the use of CG effects this season a lot, but let me just say that it\u2019s a breath of fresh air to see the battleships of Yamato<\/em> actually fighting in-atmosphere above water. Taking advantage of the very real effects these hulking giant machines would have, we see clouds of lightning and smoke covering the sky obscuring red laser beams. Water parts away from Yamato<\/em>\u2019s exhaust to various degrees as the Neu Deusuler<\/em> pressures Yamato<\/em> with its sheer bulk. The size comparison is equally impressive, putting into perspective how massive Abelt\u2019s flagship is compared to our titular ship.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: What is happening? Much earlier we see the shot of Neu Deusuler<\/em> hovering over Telezart and Talan is on the bridge of the red carrier. Did he go down and take Dessler\u2019s ride? Who is on the flagship? Abelt is still on the ground. Is he \u2026 is he piloting remotely?<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: I believe either Talan\u2019s piloting it remotely for Abelt, or it has some automatic defense mechanisms. Later on in the series we\u2019ll see that the Neu Deusuler<\/em> can be controlled completely from its core ship, which is to be expected since it\u2019s the hub of the vessel. On the topic of Keyman, I want to clarify what exactly his choices are based on his recollections, and they boil down to these:<\/span><\/p>\n

1. Following Burrel\u2019s task, deceiving everyone in order to draw out the leader of the Dessler remnants and confirm Teresa\u2019s existence.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. Forsaking the former to help the Dessler remnants by giving them Yamato<\/em>, accepting his role as Dessler\u2019s heir.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

The third vision is there to make him stray from both these options, to make him doubt the necessity of betraying Yamato<\/em> for the sake of either goal. Does he really have to keep Yamato<\/em>\u2019s crew in the dark? Does he really have to give up the ship and follow his bloodline?<\/span><\/p>\n

Katsuragi\u2019s words, while meant to imbue harmful doubt, are what will inevitably save Yamato<\/em> in the long run. It\u2019s what made Klaus confront the crew in Episode 13 about entrusting every major decision to Kodai. It\u2019s what ends up giving him the chance to meet and understand his Uncle Abelt without violence, and it\u2019s what forces him to (soon enough) reveal his true nature as a secret agent. Grasping this is the key necessary to understand what Teresa spoke of last episode.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

On the ground, Dessler stands behind his Needle Slaves and watches the fight play out as he muses over the unpredictability of war with \u201cthese people.\u201d He calls Talan on his communicator and starts to tell him to bring the ship back immediately, only to be interrupted by Kodai\u2019s pistol jabbing him in the back.<\/p>\n

[AMB]: Abelt uses the phrase \u201ckisama tachi\u201d to describe Yamato<\/em>\u2019s crew here, an old term used by the samurai to describe honorable enemies (plural). Modern day usage could be boiled down to meaning \u201cbastard\u201d or \u201cscum,” so whether or not he means one or the other is up to whether or not you interpret Abelt as seeing honor in these people. Something which I personally do.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: Ah, okay. Talan did take Dessler\u2019s ride. This is an interesting turn of events.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: Either that or it could be controlled by the General remotely. And interesting to note about the Needle Slaves here is that they\u2019re sporting large red Garmillas symbols and the royal filigree, small but welcome details. Also, isn\u2019t it nice to hear Dessler talking so casually to Talan? Seeing the situation turn ugly, he calls back his flagship to either aid his retreat or force Yamato<\/em>\u2019s crew into submission, most likely the latter.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

[KC]: Still holding out hope that D&T get a buddy movie.<\/span><\/p>\n

The instant Dessler is threatened, the Needle Slaves cease fire and turn to aim at Kodai, backing up a bit as the disgraced supreme leader is pushed forward.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t we end this, Supreme Leader Dessler?\u201d Kodai asks.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhen it has yet to even begin, how do you plan to end it, boy?\u201d Dessler asks, turning back to him with a smirk. But Kodai is having none of it.<\/p>\n

\u201cI am Yamato<\/em> Chief Tactical Officer Susumu Kodai,\u201d he states. \u201cI want you to pull out your forces immediately and withdraw from Telezart.\u201d<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Dessler, who apparently didn\u2019t recognize the face in the helmet, does recognize the name.<\/p>\n

\u201cKodai? I see. The boy from back then. You think you can make a man who\u2019s died once submit with that thing?\u201d<\/p>\n

At this point, Sanada notices what is happening and calls out to Kodai in alarm. Nagakura also looks on, concerned that Kodai or Dessler is being reckless.<\/p>\n

\u201cThese dolls will not shoot me,\u201d Dessler tells Kodai of the Needle Slaves. \u201cHowever, that is only true while I am alive. Now,\u201d he turns again to Kodai but offers no resistance. \u201cPull the trigger.\u201d<\/p>\n

[AMB]: Playing with Teresa\u2019s take on fate, Dessler questions whether or not what Kodai intends to stop has even begun, or if he even knows what it is he\u2019s stopping, perhaps alluding to how Yamato<\/em> didn\u2019t quite know the disastrous consequences Garmillas society would experience after the ship not only helped destroy New Baleras, but also the Salezar sun replica created for the 11th planet. <\/span><\/p>\n

Having shot Abelt before in the shoulder, having killed his dream of a Great Unification with Iscandar, Susumu is dared to fire again; to once again pull the trigger as humanity always does for its own survival. For love. This setup will have an incredible payoff in Episode 23, so keep it in mind going forward.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Kodai almost fires, then hesitates.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s wrong, Kodai?\u201d Dessler asks. \u201cIf you lack the courage-\u201d <\/p>\n

[KC]: \u201cWHAT\u2019S STOPPING YOU? FIRE IT. FIRE THE GUN. I\u2019VE BEEN MOST ANXIOUS TO SEE WHAT THIS GREAT WEAPON OF YOURS CAN DO, SO \u2026 FIRE THE GUN.\u201d Sorry. Had an old Dessler quote lodged in my throat. All better, now.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: Unironically original Dessler\u2019s best moment in my opinion. I always get chills from that scene, but I hadn\u2019t considered that line being alluded to here!<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Dessler\u2019s insult is cut off by a brilliant flash of light as Keyman\u2019s Czvarke comes racing down the corridor.\u00a0He guns\u00a0down every last Needle Slave with Nagakura\u2019s assistance. After cutting to black for an undisclosed amount of time, Dessler and Kodai stand observing the smoking wreckage of an off-screen battle, Kodai\u2019s gun still jammed in Dessler\u2019s back much to the man\u2019s dismay. The Czvarke has landed and the hatch opens. Keyman removes his helmet and climbs out of his cockpit.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

[AMB]: As mentioned earlier, some scenes are cut short for a variety of reasons in this sequel. The battle we only saw glimpses of might be a disappointment to some, but at the end of the day it would have been just another bout between machines and men, the machines outmatched and outgunned after Klaus\u2019 arrival. A waste of valuable time for more interesting developments. If you\u2019re reading this but are still clamoring for that unseen battle, instead sympathize with Dessler\u2019s disappointment in this scene. It\u2019s very relatable.<\/span><\/p>\n

On the art front, there\u2019s a few touched-up mecha shots of the wrecked Needle Slaves as well as some respectable attention to detail in the background, with needles impaled in the green walls of the Telezarium. Visual consistency is a blessing.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\u201cNice one, Mr. Garmillas,\u201d Nagakura calls to him appreciatively. Keyman jumps down and stands there a moment, staring at a very intrigued Abelt before he speaks.<\/p>\n

\u201cI want to ask Supreme Leader Dessler, what was it that brought you here?\u201d<\/p>\n

He approaches. Leader Dessler continues to stare at him. \u201cYou. Who are you?\u201d He finally asks.<\/p>\n

Keyman stands before him. \u201cMy name is Ranhart Dessler,\u201d he states.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

[AMB]: And there we have it, the reveal which shook the Yamato<\/em> community and surprised fairly few people. We often look back at this scene thinking \u201cit was obvious he was related to Dessler,” but we never quite knew if it was a bait and switch, if he was Abelt in disguise or\u2026 if he was indeed some long-lost relative. We also have yet another usage of the word \u201ckisama\u201d coming out of Abelt\u2019s mouth, this time in a more distressed manner, clearly referring to Klaus as a dishonorable bastard who just ruined his grandstanding in front of Kodai rather than an honorable enemy.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: Well, that is a cool bit of info for me since I am not familiar enough with Japanese to pick up on Abelt’s annoyance that “Klaus” is stealing his thunder here. Thanks!<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: Speaking of, allow me to elaborate on my earlier explanation of the term “kisama.\u201d In the original Dessler’s 1978 image song The Rival<\/em>, there are many allusions toward Dessler being a “samurai,\u201d and in the time of the samurai the term “kisama” was used differently. Even the words he uses have different meanings depending on if we see him as an honorable samurai or a despicable thug, in both past and present. Abelt sure is a difficult figure.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Abelt Dessler\u2019s eyes narrow, the Earthlings react in shock and we are treated to yet another flashback.<\/p>\n

[AMB]: With pinpoint precision matching Ranhart\u2019s revelation, the sad violin rendition of the Garmillas National Anthem (from Ark of the Stars<\/em>) starts playing as we once again cut to the past. This situation is a mess for Klaus. His body language tells us he questions whether or not he should reveal his secret in front of everyone, then there\u2019s the revelation of Abelt\u2019s appearance and apparent survival. Knowing his complicated feelings on the matter in the next episode makes us sympathize pretty hard with the young boy.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

[KC]: This damn show delivers on so many levels.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201c14 Years Ago.\u201d Massive crowds stand outside the palace cheering and chanting Dessler\u2019s name. We see Abelt from behind as he walks out to address the crowd, wondering to himself how it has come to this. How the man named Abelt Dessler\u2019s existence did not weigh heavily enough to anchor his grieving mother\u2019s heart to this world. But that is who he was. The unification that his uncle achieved has been entrusted to him, along with a secret too great to bear. He looks out at his people, who he knows will be heartbroken if they lose hope. They must never discover that Garmillas has no future.<\/p>\n

[AMB]: Going from performing as a 36-year-old to a 13-year-old to a 19-year-old with distinctly different vocal intonations, Kouichi Yamadera reminds us of his magnificent skill as an actor. Incredibly emotional line delivery, truly conveying the weight of having to live up to the unreasonable expectations of his now recently deceased uncle the unifier and his brother the war hero. And the secret? He\u2019s kept it hidden from all but one man all this time, someone we\u2019ll be reunited with next episode.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

[KC]: Whoa, this is like, a different guy? A guy with terrible hair and a ridiculous ascot, granted, but a far more decent-seeming guy than he will become in about ten years or so?<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: Our first in-depth look into the psyche of Abelt without Teresa\u2019s interference does reveal an incredibly fragile and sensitive man with the makings of a poet. The way he describes the death of his mother as \u201chis weight not being able to anchor mother\u2019s grieving heart\u201d is so effortlessly beautiful yet tragic, one wonders if he ever needed Celestella to write his speeches in the first place. Perhaps he didn\u2019t just hire her for convenience, but to give her a place and a home in the government, befitting of her skills.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: I can more readily believe that now, for sure.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Abelt then recalls something he was told or overheard at an unspecified time: \u201cThis is the surest way to do it. Baleras Tower was built for this purpose. There can be no turning back now.\u201c We are shown the tower in question, which we know as the palace, and we see what appears to be Dessler\u2019s Deusuler I<\/em> core ship docked inside. \u201cFor Garmillas to survive we must have Iscandar\u2019s…\u201d<\/p>\n

[AMB]: I know the Yamato<\/em> reboot series tries to shy away from making historical references, but it is undeniable to me that this Abelt is sort of meant to mirror Emperor Nero inheriting Rome from Caesar, but instead of using Rome (Garmillas in this case) for his own pleasures. Unlike Nero of Rome, as we\u2019re fooled into thinking in 2199<\/em>, he\u2019s just trying to keep his promises, helping people in need. Exactly the same things Kodai vented to Sanada about wanting to do in Episode 7.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

[KC]: Oh, things are starting to make a lot more sense now. Original Dessler kind of sense.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: The official subs state \u201cWe must have Iscandar,” but the original Japanese line trails off without indicating if they want Iscandar itself or something from Iscandar. The clear implication made here to me is that Baleras Tower was built to extort Iscandar for the CRS, something confirmed in the next episode. That tower, to Dessler, represents an immense danger for Starsha. And even if it costs him Garmillas’ future, he\u2019ll do anything to keep her safe from the hands of the Garmillas military. Cue his deification of Iscandar!<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: My humble apologies to His Majesty for ever doubting.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: Seems we were meant to doubt, so no harm no foul in Abelt’s eyes. Before moving on I’ll add a lore note. The core ship shown in Baleras Tower must be be the original Deusuler I<\/em> core ship, though the scene showcasing it does seem to use the exact same artwork as in episode 23 of 2199<\/em>.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Back at his podium and flanked by familiar, applauding generals, Abelt begins his speech by promoting the \u201cspread of Iscandarism\u201d as a means of achieving permanent interstellar peace. He claims it is the will of God and a sublime duty entrusted to the Garmillas people. He goes on to explain essentially what that means; that as many planets as possible must be brought under the rule of Garmillas, even ones outside their own Magellan Galaxy (i.e. the Large Magellanic Cloud). <\/p>\n

From left to right among the generals shown, we have Mardo Vutter, Dahl Histenberger, Doram Boshrem, Nerun Keeling, Redof Hyss, Heydom Gimleh, Gul Deitz, Ghader Talan, Welte Talan and Herm Zoellick.<\/p>\n

[AMB]: Next episode we\u2019ll find out that the military faction (presumed to be Zoellick\u2019s pure-bloods) were aiming to use Baleras Tower even before 2199 to abuse\u00a0Iscandar\u2019s\u00a0various powers for the sake of Garmillas\u2019 future, a move mirroring what Dessler\u2019s regime and the Bolar Federation tried with Planet Shalbart in Yamato III<\/em>. Which is fitting, since Iscandar inherited their status as a religious icon and as a WMD-holding peacekeeper. And I must say, that one beautiful shot of the Large Magellanic Cloud is the most breathtaking rendition of space in this entire reboot thus far.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

[KC]: And now I see how things go horribly wrong.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: As a consequence of his deification of Iscandar, Abelt seems to have felt the need to appease the pure-blood faction by searching out other planets to either use, abuse or renovate under the guise of maintaining peace in the universe under \u201cIscandarism.\u201d As long as the people believed he was dedicated to Iscandarism, they would never support the military\u2019s desire to extort their sister planet.<\/span><\/p>\n

At the same time, Dessler was genuinely trying to give Starsha the \u201cpeace in the universe\u201d she pleads for by saying, \u201cWe seek the salvation of all intelligent life forms in the universe.\u201d It\u2019s a controversial desire, one we see Elisa Domel praying for and Celestella ridiculing back in 2199<\/em>. The odds were always stacked against poor Abelt as he tried preserving peace with Iscandar along with his people’s survival, a delicate balancing act he\u2019d later entrust to Heydom Gimleh. But more on that in the next episode.<\/span><\/p>\n

And I have to say, hearing Akira Miyagawa’s instrumental rendition of the Garmillas National Anthem remastered and conducted by the man himself is such a treat! A larger emphasis is put on the marching and war drums compared to last season, making it more similar to that one unreleased variation of it played at Domel’s medal ceremony in episode 12 of 2199<\/em>.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

We return to Telezart where Keyma-uh, Ranhart<\/em> is explaining that rapid expansion brought untold wealth and power to Garmillas. This resulted in some people rising up in resistance against Abelt, who was exposed to countless assassination attempts. Abelt smiles and nods at him, clearly amused. \u201cEven by family, huh?\u201d Another flashback begins.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re a tyrant now!\u201d Cries Eliza Dessler, being held forcibly to the ground by Gul Deitz and Ghader Talan. Dozens of people lie dead on the ground around them, Gimleh\u2019s imperial guard standing over them with guns in hand. \u201cIf only you had died instead of Mattheus!\u201d There is no doubt this is Abelt\u2019s own sister-in-law, the widow of his older brother. Abelt looks down on her from where he stands, along with Herm Zoellick, Velte Talan, Heydom Gimleh, Redof Hyss and a few other less recognizable officers, like Thol Toad, Nerun Keeling, Banom Besh and Doram Boshrem.<\/p>\n

[AMB]: This might be far-fetched, but I believe the order in which we saw the Garmillan officers standing next to Abelt in his speech the prior scene is indicative of their importance in the government, spread like two wings. To Abelt\u2019s right, we have what appears to be the administrative side, headed by Hyss. To his left, we have what appears to be the military side, headed by Gimleh (Imperial Guard) and Deitz (Astro Fleets) respectively. Celestella isn\u2019t present, indicating that he has yet to bring the Jirellians into the fold; which makes sense given Garmillas expansion didn\u2019t begin until just that moment. Then again, she and her sister are only kids at this point.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: Yes, there is a definite division there! Dessler has a Talan for each side. LOL<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

[AMB]: Based on Abelt\u2019s getup and Klaus\u2019 words, we\u2019re still around \u201c14 years ago\u201d but after initial hostilities have begun within the Large Magellanic Galaxy. Gimleh\u2019s imperial guard already has a large presence, dealing with rebels quite effectively. The \u201cnumerous assassination attempts\u201d mentioned by Keyman may have caused the rise of Heydom\u2019s imperial guard, given their effectiveness. We can also see glimpses of fierce loyalty in Ghader Talan and Deitz aimed at either Abelt, the Dessler name or the rule of law. Based on events of both reboot series, Deitz is loyal to both law and country (or rather, planet) whereas Ghader is loyal toward Abelt and his family.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: We\u2019re only halfway through 2202<\/em> and now I am rabid for 2205.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: We won’t have to worry about half-baked followups either, since Fukui and Oka have returned to write for 2205<\/em>. The potential is limitless!<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

In the present where this memory is being recalled, Abelt confirms this. He says that he faked Eliza\u2019s execution and secretly exiled her instead. It was the least he could do for his brother. As he goes on, we see either him or Gimleh toss his personal weapon to the ground before Eliza, then a long shot of her retreating with a suitcase and a small boy in tow. The boy turns back to look over his shoulder, and those who have not made the connection yet should now realize that this boy is Ranhart. \u201cYou\u2019ve grown,\u201d present-time Abelt smiles at him.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

[AMB]: To quickly elaborate on my previous LoGH<\/em> comparison, we see Gimleh shielding Abelt with his own body, holding a golden gun to Eliza\u2019s face. This isn\u2019t too dissimilar to when Reinhard\u2019s cold and utilitarian aide Paul von Oberstein jumped in front of his emperor to shield him from a rocket in LoGH<\/em> Season 1 during an assassination attempt.<\/span><\/p>\n

The calculating utilitarian elite archetype isn\u2019t uncommon in Japanese entertainment media, seen through M\u2019quve in Gundam<\/em>, Oberstein in LoGH<\/em>, Gintama<\/em>\u2019s version of Japanese historical figure \u201cSasaki Tadasaburou\u201d (renamed Sasaki Isaburou in the show) and Heydom Gimleh.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: Does this single episode make up for the entirety of Abelt Dessler circa 2199<\/em>? Maybe.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: What\u2019s there to make up for? Jokes aside, for many who couldn\u2019t see past the overtly ambiguous nature of Abelt in 2199<\/em>, this exploration of his character became an unexpected redemption. As discussed in previous episodes, I always thought they\u2019d take a similar direction with Abelt in 2202<\/em> based on the moments of nuance we saw in 2199<\/em>, but it was never certain.<\/span><\/p>\n

One could even see something small like the focus on Abelt’s gun here tying into his “war is necessary” moment in 2199<\/em> Episode 25, where he stares at it vacantly. Perhaps in that moment he remembered exiling beloved family members for the sake of continuing his everlasting war.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: The two different writers still make the transition a bit clunky for me, but I’m embracing it.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

[AMB]: The scene of Ranhart leaving hand in hand with Eliza is bittersweet, since they walk past dying blue flowers in the foreground to a land where the only things still standing are large timeless trees. Ranhart\u2019s feet can barely keep up and he smiles innocently to his mother for a second, only to glance back at the audience with uncertainty. They\u2019re walking toward a barren wasteland, yet Eliza manages to keep her son alive long enough to confront his uncle Abelt.<\/span><\/p>\n

On the music side, they\u2019re playing the Lonely Dessler<\/em> BGM from 2199<\/em>, one of Akira Miyagawa\u2019s original pieces remastered for 2202<\/em>. A fitting choice, since Ranhart grew up to become the solitary secretive man which Yamato<\/em>\u2019s crew knew as Klaus Keyman.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

The Earthlings are in a state of shock. Kodai finally manages to acknowledge that Abelt Dessler has a family. After a few moments of silent introspection, Ranhart aims his pistol at his uncle and informs him that Eliza died in poverty. He asks Abelt if it\u2019s true that Garmillas will soon come to ruin. The Earthlings are shocked again, and Abelt seems more than a little put out that Ranhart even knows to ask.<\/p>\n

Abelt\u2019s grimace moves Klaus to continue, and he states that when you\u2019ve been posted away from the home world for long enough you start to feel it. He states his personal conclusion, that pure blood Garmillas cannot live for long that far away. A world with the same atmosphere must be found (if not artificially created) and every Garmillas must be relocated within half a century.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

[AMB]: \u201cGarmillas has 100 years at most,” Archduke Erik said 28 years ago. Based on the \u201cwithin half a century\u201d statement from Ranhart, it seems like Abelt\u2019s rapid expansionism or continued integration of second-class citizens may have gambled away a lot of Garmillas time. This only adds salt to an already open wound after Yamato<\/em> tore down Abelt\u2019s grand project in 2199<\/em>. And I get why Abelt is put off by Klaus knowing this, considering it\u2019s a secret Abelt has kept for his entire life at great costs.<\/span><\/p>\n

The revelation that Klaus has felt this existential dread when stationed off-world is helpful. Garmillan people have been seen off-world in various capacities in both series, and this solidifies their \u201cblood curse.\u201d Klaus knowing about the importance of relocation from Garmillas means he\u2019s had it on his mind too, explaining why part of him seemed to consider the Dessler remnants as a possible refuge were he to betray Yamato<\/em>.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

While Ranhart speaks, Dessler\u2019s flagship launches missiles at Yamato<\/em>, which explode harmlessly into the sea. Ranhart goes on about how this must have been the real reason for Abelt\u2019s aggressive expansionist policy, a choice he made knowing he might go down in history as a cruel dictator. Sanada realizes out loud that the planet bombing of Earth was an attempt to modify the climate for Garmillas people.<\/p>\n

Kodai asks Abelt if it\u2019s true that his war with Earth was waged in order to save Garmillas. With a small, sad smile Abelt asks him why it matters now, what difference does it make? He and Ranhart exchange looks as he continues talking and his flagship continues its assault on Yamato<\/em>.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

[AMB]: The emergence of Abelt\u2019s utilitarian soul has been a long time coming! I\u2019ve always had a soft spot for characters willing to do today\u2019s evil for the sake of tomorrow\u2019s good, without need for praise. This retroactively puts into perspective why he openly indulged in the luxurious of being a man of the Dessler family, why he kept naming his ships and weapons after himself and why he sometimes (in 2199<\/em>) appeared shameless.<\/span><\/p>\n

It was all done in order to make sure that, were his name to go down in history as one of evil, Garmillas itself wouldn\u2019t suffer. Garmillas didn\u2019t force Yamato<\/em> into a burning star, the \u201cDessler torpedo\u201d did. Garmillas didn\u2019t fire the Wave-Motion Gun, Dessler fired the Dessler gun. He\u2019s separated himself from his nation\u2019s history, protecting its future.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: And keeping his promise, hopefully.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

[AMB]: Also, seeing as the Neu Deusuler<\/em> isn\u2019t hitting Yamato<\/em> at such close range, I assume it\u2019s steering Yamato<\/em> toward the Telezarium.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI have no power now. I can make a wish to a powerless god, or make a deal with Gatlantis.\u201d We are shown an image of Miru sulking in his cell. <\/p>\n

[AMB]: In the brief scene of Miru, his cell is surrounded by floating crystals like the ones seen inside the other dimension in Episode 11. The hole Yamato<\/em> traveled through had anti-telepathy properties, so once it exploded Abelt definitely took the time to excavate some of its crystals for cutting off Miru\u2019s space wi-fi.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: I figured those blue lights were just keeping him in his room, so thanks for clarifying!<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: It’s an easy to miss narrative thread after all. Just like how it’s easy to miss Miru sitting down, something we’ve mentioned before as being an exclusive trait to him, Sabera and Zordar in all of Gatlantis. It’s small, but a desire to rest and sulk isn’t seen in any other Gatlanteans, another valuable hint at Miru’s true nature as Zordar’s heir.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Yamato<\/em> and Neu Deusuler<\/em> continue to exchange fire as they race along the ocean. \u201cThe odds aren\u2019t in my favor with either,\u201d Abelt continues. \u201cHowever, even so \u2026 \u201c Abelt looks up at the orb again, determined. He sees his brother. His crying mother. Starsha. His theme song swells behind him. \u201cEven so, I \u2026 \u201c He does not continue, but Kodai looks on as if he is seeing Abelt Dessler for the first time. Ranhart lowers his weapon. \u201cWho is it that truly needs Teresa\u2019s power?\u201d He asks. \u201cYou should know,\u201d Abelt tells him.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

[AMB]: What horrible options. Pray to God (Teresa) or make a deal with the Devil (Zordar) through Miru. At the end of everything he\u2019s done and tried, Abelt tells Kodai that his reasons for committing his atrocities don\u2019t matter now that he\u2019s failed. He\u2019s already successfully gone down in history as an irredeemable dictator for both the universe and the audience without achieving his set goals, so what can he do? What would you do? That\u2019s why he needed a miracle.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the main version of Dessler\u2019s bolero swells, a common phrase used in Fukui\u2019s writing is repeated twice, \u201cEven so\u2026.\u201d Even so, he\u2019ll desperately try to uphold his promises, to save the people he loves. Just like Kodai. As he says this, his eyes water and he chokes on his words. What a performance.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

[KC]: *Buys the ticket and takes the ride.*<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: Before the story diverts from Garmillas in a few episodes I\u2019d like to get my thoughts out of the way on why Dessler fell for Starsha. He grew up constricted from a young age, anchored to upholding promises he\u2019d been forced into, the burden of saving his people because that\u2019s what\u2019s expected of him. He led a one-track life where other people’s choices dictated his future. That is, until he met Starsha.<\/span><\/p>\n

She showed him her incredible resolve to do what\u2019s right not because someone told her to, but because she wanted to herself. But seeing as she was stuck on Iscandar and a pacifist to a fault, Abelt saw in himself the ability to fulfill her wish by using the tools he\u2019d been burdened with all his life. All without her having to shed a single drop of blood. He\u2019d bear the sins for her, a new purpose in life which he chose himself. And that\u2019s why she\u2019s the last person shown in the orb, she\u2019s his reason for being. Teresa will more or less confirm this next episode.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

[KC]: He really was our Dessler from the beginning.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe planet of our birth. Garmillas. You\u2019ve worked for that all along.\u201d, Ranhart exclaims.<\/p>\n

[AMB]: Instead of sealing Teresa or letting her go, Dessler intends to use her power to either restore Garmillas or sell her out to Gatlantis in exchange for a miracle. Having slaved away inside Gatlantis for around four years, he\u2019s finally reached the point where his dishonor can be somewhat restored, if only for himself.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHold on!\u201d Saito shouts as he realizes their pilot friend is feeling a bit sympathetic toward his uncle and exiled leader. He steps forward with a challenge and a racial slur (\u201cGammy boy\u201d – now there\u2019s a song parody waiting to happen) which falls on deaf ears. Abelt steps forward to his nephew, pointing out that the path ahead is one of carnage and if Ranhart wants to join him he will have to rid himself of all emotion – or he will go astray as Abelt himself once did.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

[AMB]: Like with every other Saito interference moment, there\u2019s an equal chance of him being puppeted by Zordar as speaking his own words. If it\u2019s Zordar, he\u2019s legitimately concerned about Dessler gaining control of Telezart. If it\u2019s Saito, he\u2019s feeling a mix of concern and fear at the current developments. What Abelt\u2019s referring to with \u201cgoing astray as I once did\u201d is undoubtedly his final act in 2199<\/em>, where his desire to show Starsha his brave new world outweighed anything else. It led to his desperate attempt to nuke Yamato<\/em> with a piece of his new floating capital city.<\/span><\/p>\n

[KC]: They are doing a great job of keeping Saito ambiguous.<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: I\u2019d also like to point out that while \u201cGammy boy\u201d might be seen as a racial slur, it may be similar to the usage of \u201cNazi\u201d (in lieu of National Socialist) in the modern day. \u201cNazi\u201d was itself a slur created for propaganda reasons by the allied powers in WWII. Seeing as it\u2019s only been four years since the fall of the Dessler regime and the nation is still called \u201cGarmillas,” \u201cGammy\u201d is as much associated with their skin and race as it is with their planet and role as an Empire responsible for genocide on galactic levels.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

If we add the fact that it\u2019s used in the context of a former ally revealing himself to be Space Hitler\u2019s nephew who may join Space Hitler, then the usage of \u201cGammy boy\u201d in this instance really is just the same as how we use \u201cNazi.\u201d Then again, if Zordar\u2019s in control he\u2019s probably trying to act like Saito, or Saito\u2019s using the slur in a misguided attempt to sound friendly. If the former, it might be a play on Yamato 2<\/em>‘s bigoted Saito, and since we know he\u2019s far from a bigot in 2202<\/em> I might subscribe to Zordar being the one in charge here.<\/span><\/p>\n

Saito implores Ranhart not to listen to the other Dessler. He starts to advance again, and Ranhart turns his weapon on him. Kodai calls out to him as Keyman and the other Earthlings look on in suspense. \u201cSorry, Kodai,\u201d the younger Dessler says. In the last moment he shifts his aim from Saito to Kodai.<\/p>\n

A shot is heard and the episode comes to a dramatic and uncertain end.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

[KC]: Yes, I\u2019m gushing. Yes, it was all I could do not to comment on every little thing that happens in this episode. Leader Dessler has family drama and sympathetic motivations. Leader Dessler is getting long speeches with cello accompaniment. Leader Dessler is having his entire bird-murdering backstory retrofitted into something tragic and noble and hoooooo boy I am 110% here for it!!!<\/span><\/p>\n

[AMB]: Phew, the heaviest episode so far in content to discuss and dissect. To me it succeeded at permanently tying together the Garmillas canon from way before 2199<\/em> to the present day, leaving lots of potential for future stories to dive deeper. Very solid start to what was originally referred to as the Purgatory Chapter<\/em>!<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

After the scene cuts to black a new end credits sequence rolls, illustrated by 2199<\/em> manga artist Michio Murakawa. Depicting moments of peace and serenity between the Kato family, Yamato<\/em>\u2019s pilots (including Tsurumi), the cosmo marines and Kiryu (including her father), Sanada and his book of Chuya Nakahara poems, Tokugawa with his granddaughter Aiko, Kodai and Yuki lying down on a picnic blanket, a young Shima lying in his mother\u2019s lap, a heartfelt moment between Makoto and a newborn Tsubasa and finally\u2026 Tsubasa\u2019s baby face drifts off toward the stars, fading away as a White Comet pierces through the universe.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

[AMB]: This ending sequence is sung by Shino Arima who also sang the third ending song, You, Petal.<\/em> This time she\u2019s backed by the South Korean acapella group MayTree. Once again composed by S.E.N.S. Project, this tune (titled Yoranka (Lullaby)<\/em>) wishes for peace and happiness for the ones we love. Its warm illustrations remind us of what each main crew member of Yamato<\/em> cherishes the most, with some ominous foreshadowing pointing at interesting developments for the Kato family drama. A highlight for me was seeing Aiko Tokugawa starting to grow up… it really makes me look forward to becoming a grandpa myself.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Coda<\/h3>\n

Theatrical release: Space Battleship Yamato 2202, Soldiers of Love<\/em> Chapter 5: Purgatory Chapter<\/em> contained episodes 15-18. It premiered in Japanese theaters May 25, 2018.<\/p>\n

Japanese video: Theater-exclusive Blu-ray May 25, 2018. Standard Blu-ray & DVD June 22, 2018<\/p>\n

First Japanese TV broadcast: January 11, 2019<\/p>\n

American debut: February 9, 2019 (streaming) November 26, 2019 (home video)<\/p>\n

The end title Youranka [Lullaby]<\/em> is performed by Arima Shino.<\/p>\n

Click here<\/a> for a complete BGM collection for Episode 15.<\/p>\n

Episode credits<\/em>
\nEpisode Director: Atsushi Otsuki
\nStoryboard: Amino Tetsuro
\nAnimation Directors: Hiroki Takagi, 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 16<\/a>
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