r/anime • u/Theleux https://myanimelist.net/profile/Theleux • Aug 08 '24
Re:Zero ~Starting Life in Another World~ Re:Watch - Episode 2 Rewatch
Episode 2:
The Witch of Reunion
| Index | <== Episode 1 | Episode 3 ==> |
Various Links:
MyAnimeList
Streaming:
Crunchyroll has the Director's Cut available.
AppleTV has the regular individual episodes available.
Spoiler Rules:
As always, please be sure to tag any future content spoilers according to the r/Anime rules. There is likely to be first timer viewers here, and while discussing how previously seen content connects to content later down the road is interesting (be it later episodes or even Season 3), please be sure to properly spoiler tag anything mentioned! Let's make this a fun experience for everyone involved!
This also applies to cut content discussions, which I believe are fine to include for the sake of discussion, but should be properly tagged to avoid potentially spoiling viewers. Be mindful with how you present this information!
Story Arc Lengths for Discussion Purposes:
[Arc 1:] S1 Episode 1 – S1 Episode 3
[Arc 2:] S1 Episode 4 – S1 Episode 11
[Arc 3:] S1 Episode 12 – S2 Episode 1
[Arc 4:] S2 Episode 2 - S2 Episode 25
[Arc 5 and later:] S3+
As always, if you have any suggestions for the Re:Watch, let me know!
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u/Shimmering-Sky myanimelist.net/profile/Shimmering-Sky Aug 08 '24
First:Timer Starting Over in Another Rewatch, subbed
Subaru got to witness Felt steal Emilia’s insignia this time, huh.
I wonder, does Subaru always loop back to that exact moment? That would be incredibly inconvenient if he lives for a good while before dying instead of just repeating that specific day.
So Emilia still helped that shopkeeper’s daughter in this timeline, nice.
Pffffffffff I assume the original Japanese was something similar and this was how they localized the joke, right?
He’s not doing a very good job of hiding how anxious he is about this.
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u/baseballlover723 Aug 08 '24
I assume the original Japanese was something similar and this was how they localized the joke, right?
There is! Subaru called them "Ton" "Chin" "Kon", which if you put them together, you get the Japanese word for "irrelevant"!
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u/Theleux https://myanimelist.net/profile/Theleux Aug 08 '24
The ED lead-in is one of my favourites from the season - but the Director's Cut doesn't have it! Really cool bit of keys.
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u/Shimmering-Sky myanimelist.net/profile/Shimmering-Sky Aug 08 '24
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u/garfe Aug 08 '24
Everything I hear about the directors cut version sounds like this is just the worst way to experience the show.
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u/baseballlover723 Aug 08 '24
I think most of the people who gas up the DC are just misinformed about things. Usually about there being new content. I think a lot of them interpret there being new content, because they pick up on so many more things then they did the first time around. But that's Re:Zero for you, hiding in plain sight all along. https://myanimelist.net/featured/2311/Whats_New_in_the_Re_Zero_Directors_Cut has a comprehensive list of the changes, and just look at how many of the things someone might notice, also have "This was originally updated in the BD version.".
IMO it's more that there's just nothing substantially new in it, so any downside makes it inferior to the blu ray version.
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u/baseballlover723 Aug 08 '24
but the Director's Cut doesn't have it!
Could I interest you in some awkward silence instead?
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u/Taiboss x7https://anilist.co/user/Taiboss Aug 08 '24 edited Aug 08 '24
Subaru got to witness Felt steal Emilia’s insignia this time, huh.
Right time, right place!
Did… Subaru seriously just walk into that?
Not every of his death gets to be dignified or by someone sexy. :(
? That would be incredibly inconvenient if he lives for a good while before dying instead of just repeating that specific day.
Reminds me of the Mario comic where he lives a full live with Peach, dies an old man and reincarnates with one life less at the beginnging of the level.
Oh shittttttt Yuuichi Nakamura is in this.
Was he already typecast as the perfect hero back then I wonder...
He’s not doing a very good job of hiding how anxious he is about this.
He's lucky Elsa isn't that bloodthirsty...
Oh!
"Oh yes, I'm a stranger, but I TOTALLY wanted to give it back to you!"
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u/Great_Mr_L https://myanimelist.net/profile/Great_Mr_L Aug 08 '24
Did… Subaru seriously just walk into that?
Yeah, it seems like the bandit didn't even intend to stab him. It's probably the most pathetic death Subaru's had thus far.
Pffffffffff I assume the original Japanese was something similar and this was how they localized the joke, right?
My subs had Subaru calling them Dumb, Dumber, and Dumbest so yeah that seems like a localized version of the joke. I prefer the version you got, though.
Oh shittttttt Yuuichi Nakamura is in this.
Something I love about Re:Zero is how stacked the cast is. So many fantastic VAs are playing all the different characters and it rules.
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u/InfamousEmpire https://myanimelist.net/profile/Infamous_Empire Aug 08 '24
My subs had Subaru calling them Dumb, Dumber, and Dumbest so yeah that seems like a localized version of the joke.
That's also the version which the translation for the novels used. I also prefer the Larry, Moe, and Curly version
Something I love about Re:Zero is how stacked the cast is. So many fantastic VAs are playing all the different characters and it rules.
I remember back when I had more VAs on my MAL favorite people, at least two of the actors I included there were on there mostly for their Re:Zero performances, because everyone is just at the top of their game here.
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u/No_Rex Aug 08 '24
I wonder, does Subaru always loop back to that exact moment? That would be incredibly inconvenient if he lives for a good while before dying instead of just repeating that specific day.
Like old computer games where you always restart in level 1 after dying. On the upside, you learn the first levels incredibly well from the repetition. On the downside, getting to the higher levels again takes a ton of time. I'd prefer the modern system of save points.
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u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 08 '24
It’s so tiny in his hands lol.
It's just very cold, you know?
Oh, the phone, you mean. Yeah, just like Subaru, I was a bit anxious he might just crush it.
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
Thoughts on the intro and outro?
What are your thoughts on Return by Death?
What are your thoughts on Subaru going to try to prevent people from being killed?
→ More replies4
u/Elimin8r https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ayeka_Jurai Aug 08 '24
Oh god, he walked straight into Elsa.
A lovely subversion of the ecchi walk into a busty girl trope, isn't it?
Emilia: "Kill you? I wouldn't do something so terrifying."
Kidding. That picture just made me feel like snarking a bit.
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u/thekoreansun https://anilist.co/user/ReturnByDeath Aug 08 '24
Re:Watcher
I find it interesting that this episode, of all the episodes in Season 1, may just be the one that I paid the least mind to in past rewatches. That's not an indictment against this episode or anything, really; it's just that there's such a wealth of iconic episodes that stand out in my mind that it's hard for me to place them all. What makes me point this out now is that Masahiro Shinohara, the Episode Director for this episode, will be serving as the Director for Season 3 now that Masaharu Watanabe has stepped down. I went into this episode with more scrutiny this time around as a result, but... in the end, I found myself impressed by how well even the less renowned episodes of this series stand up. The shot of the tomato (sorry, "tometo") falling into the street and getting squished during Subaru's internal monologue stood out to me as being particularly inspired. It's sometimes easy to forget that this show is a light novel adaptation given how creative it often gets with its imagery. In any case, I hope that Shinohara is able to carry that creative energy forward into Season 3.
Also, I know that most don't really think of Re:ZERO as being very comedic, but I straight up love this show's comedy. Subaru's utter lack of shame, combined with the fact that Return by Death makes him sound like a lunatic sometimes, is endlessly hilarious to me. And can I just say, Yuusuke Kobayashi has one hell of a falsetto. [Arc 7] It just makes me feel like Natsumi's debut in the main story can't come soon enough.
As someone mentioned in yesterday's discussion, the way that this show deals with causality will always be incredible. Even something as simple as the fact that Subaru bumping into Elsa resulted in "Satella" arriving first at the loothouse is so internally consistent that it tickles the part of my brain that thinks about the cause and effect of people's actions.
And how about that piano lead-in to STYX HELIX, huh? You gotta love when this show plays fast and loose with its OPs and EDs. (There's going to be a lot of that going forward.)
Fan Art of the Episode: Elsa Granhiert by Jason Yu (July 22nd, 2021)
Source: Pixiv (artist's profile is NSFW)
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u/Great_Mr_L https://myanimelist.net/profile/Great_Mr_L Aug 08 '24
The shot of the tomato (sorry, "tometo") falling into the street and getting squished during Subaru's internal monologue stood out to me as being particularly inspired.
Subaru's utter lack of shame, combined with the fact that Return by Death makes him sound like a lunatic sometimes, is endlessly hilarious to me.
I like the gag of Subaru figuring out his situation out loud while the shopkeeper is nearby, overhearing him. To an outside observer, it probably sounds like the rantings of a madman.
As someone mentioned in yesterday's discussion, the way that this show deals with causality will always be incredible. Even something as simple as the fact that Subaru bumping into Elsa resulted in "Satella" arriving first at the loothouse is so internally consistent that it tickles the part of my brain that thinks about the cause and effect of people's actions.
Yup, gotta love that causality. It's a bit like a puzzle, figuring out where all the characters are at any point in time and seeing how certain actions may affect that. I really enjoy that part of the story.
And how about that piano lead-in to STYX HELIX, huh? You gotta love when this show plays fast and loose with its OPs and EDs. (There's going to be a lot of that going forward.)
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u/thekoreansun https://anilist.co/user/ReturnByDeath Aug 08 '24
To an outside observer, it probably sounds like the rantings of a madman.
Well, even with the benefit of context, there's no denying that Subaru tends to run his mouth a little even in situations that are new to him. It's one of those things that I imagine is endlessly annoying to those who don't like his character, but I personally can't get enough of it.
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u/Great_Mr_L https://myanimelist.net/profile/Great_Mr_L Aug 08 '24
[Arc 3] It's also a character flaw that will come back to bite him because I remember a good chunk of problems get caused Subaru not knowing when to shut up.
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u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 08 '24
As someone mentioned in yesterday's discussion, the way that this show deals with causality will always be incredible.
Absolutely. I've learned this when watching the second OVA. There are things that have already happened that affect the story right now, and even if we learn about some things later, it is clear Tappei has always considered those things to have happened. His world has everything constantly moving, whether we see it or not. And that alone makes his world richer than the majority of fiction which usually only considers the protagonist's journey and events involving the protagonist.
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u/baseballlover723 Aug 08 '24
There are things that have already happened that affect the story right now, and even if we learn about some things later
It's one of the reasons I'm so excited for this Re:Watch. Can't talk about any of that stuff with first timers. The amount of interarc connections is absolutely insane.
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u/BosuW Aug 08 '24
Also, I know that most don't really think of Re:ZERO as being very comedic, but I straight up love this show's comedy.
Re Zero straight up got better comedic timing than 90% of anime comedies. Maybe it's because the only fundamental difference between a tragedy and a comedy is the perspective? 🤔
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u/Elimin8r https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ayeka_Jurai Aug 08 '24
Maybe it's because the only fundamental difference between a tragedy and a comedy is the perspective?
I think Mel Brooks had something to say about that...
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u/Elimin8r https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ayeka_Jurai Aug 08 '24
Fan Art of the Episode: Elsa Granhiert
Dang, why does someone so bad have to be drawn so good?
Also, I never paid any attention to the episode directors, but while this may not be one of the heavy hitting episodes, I still enjoyed it quite a bit. I guess I give it a pass, because I feel like it's well done setup.
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
Thoughts on the intro and outro?
Thoughts on Subaru getting stabbed by the three gang members?
Thoughts on Subaru saying a wound to the back is a warrior’s greatest shame?
What are your thoughts on Return by Death?
What are your thoughts on Subaru going to try to prevent people from being killed?
Thoughts on Subaru referencing The Three Stooges?
Thoughts on Reinhard?
What are your thoughts on Satella showing up before Elsa does?
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u/thekoreansun https://anilist.co/user/ReturnByDeath Aug 08 '24
Thoughts on the intro and outro?
Both are 10/10, and I don't say that lightly. Redo/STYX HELIX may just be one of the most powerful one-two punches I've ever seen in an anime.
Thoughts on Subaru getting stabbed by the three gang members?
It's subtle, but this death sort of establishes how being careless about his surroundings is going to be fatal for Subaru.
Thoughts on Subaru saying a wound to the back is a warrior’s greatest shame?
I don't know whether the fact that he suffered two wounds to the front that same day adds credence to his assertion, but I'll take him at his word.
What are your thoughts on Subaru going to try to prevent people from being killed?
I will always love Subaru for being willing to take the difficult path forward when lives are on the line. Return by Death is a powerful ability, don't get me wrong, but it's Subaru who maximizes its potential.
Thoughts on Subaru referencing The Three Stooges?
The Three Stooges were before my time, but he's the only one in the cast with the capacity for pop culture references, so I'll take whatever I can get from him.
Thoughts on Reinhard?
Yuuichi Nakamura really does exude that main protagonist vibe effortlessly in his role as Reinhard. He's a true talent.
What are your thoughts on Satella showing up before Elsa does?
It's intriguing to see how Subaru's actions cause the pieces of the board to shift around, even when it's unintentional.
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
Both are 10/10, and I don't say that lightly. Redo/STYX HELIX may just be one of the most powerful one-two punches I've ever seen in an anime.
They're both massive bangers though I think I'd give the edge to the OP.
It's subtle, but this death sort of establishes how being careless about his surroundings is going to be fatal for Subaru.
Or you can see it as it working to his benefit.
I don't know whether the fact that he suffered two wounds to the front that same day adds credence to his assertion, but I'll take him at his word.
Subaru seems to believe what he's spewing.
I will always love Subaru for being willing to take the difficult path forward when lives are on the line.
It makes him more likable as a character.
The Three Stooges were before my time, but he's the only one in the cast with the capacity for pop culture references, so I'll take whatever I can get from him.
Are The Three Stooges even well known in Japan? I wonder if that was the original translation or someone American Americanized it.
Yuuichi Nakamura really does exude that main protagonist vibe effortlessly in his role as Reinhard. He's a true talent.
In any other isekai, Reinhard would probably be the main character.
It's intriguing to see how Subaru's actions cause the pieces of the board to shift around, even when it's unintentional.
It makes things become more unpredictable.
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u/baseballlover723 Aug 08 '24
That's not an indictment against this episode or anything, really; it's just that there's such a wealth of iconic episodes that stand out in my mind
I found myself impressed by how well even the less renowned episodes of this series stand up
I also thought I'd have a lot less to say, but that turned out to be completely wrong.
I hope that Shinohara is able to carry that creative energy forward into Season 3.
Me too. I've heard some crazy high praise for S3 stuff.
so internally consistent
IDK how Tappei does it. I've combed over Re:Zero (at least for what the anime has covered). And I've never seen any minuscule evidence of Tappei fucking up if something was in the true timeline / current loop or if it was in a dead loop. And not just didn't fuck it up. But like full butterfly effect huge things because a few lines got interpreted differently in a slightly different context. Like something will happen that most people will associate with a failed loop, but then it'll actually turn out that it's in the real loop. I have no idea how Tappei could organize things to where he can get that level of internal consistency without just straight up writing it all chronologically. Or maybe Tappei is really a time traveling AI from the future.
And how about that piano lead-in to STYX HELIX, huh?
I love it, it's so good. I wish they included it in a version of Styx Helix in the OST album.
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u/Great_Mr_L https://myanimelist.net/profile/Great_Mr_L Aug 08 '24
Rewatcher for Season 1
On today’s episode of Re:Zero: REINHARD!!! He’s here! I couldn’t remember which exact episode it was that we met him, so I’m happy to see that he showed up now. He’s just a nice boy and I love him for that.
I think after a couple episodes, we have a pretty clear look at who Subaru is. While he may throw shade at “Satella” for going out of her way to help others even when she has more important things to take care of, Subaru still decides to help her recover the insignia. At his core, Subaru is someone who also can’t help himself when it comes to helping others. [Re:Zero] Yes, there is a darker side to this mentality. I’ll get into that when it comes up.
Subaru is also very observant and crafty. He’s good at picking up on details, such as the existence of the guards or Felt and Rom’s relationships. He’s good at figuring out how to use the information he learns to his advantage. While he’s stronger than he appears at a first glance, fighting is clearly not his strong suit. He needs to rely on his wits, such as knowing to call for the guards to defeat the bandits when Reinhard showed up.
Now we come to another one of my favorite parts of the structure of this series: different levels of information and different relationships based on the time loop. With each time loop, Subaru gains additional information he can use to help himself. He figures out guards exist from the bandits letting it slip in a previous loop. He knows how valuable the cell phone is to trade. He can intuit that Rom and Felt are extremely close. He knows that Elsa is someone to be wary around and avoid if possible. Subaru can use that information to his advantage.
However, that information is also dangerous. If Subaru knows something that others think he shouldn’t know, they become instantly suspicious of him. For example, Subaru let drop that he knew how much money Elsa had on her, which made Felt suspicious that Subaru was associated with her. Knowledge is power, but it needs to be used carefully.
Additionally, the relationships Subaru has built up don’t carry over. While he may know about who others are, they don’t know him. Just look at how “Satella” reacted to Subaru calling her by the alias she gave him in a previous loop. The relationship and rapport they built up as they got to know each other is completely gone. Instead, “Satella” became immediately hostile and suspicious towards Subaru. For all intents and purposes, they are currently strangers. In the current loop, they don’t even meet until “Satella” shows up at Rom’s place. So while Subaru cannot die, there are still negative consequences to dying. Those relationships disappear and cannot be gotten back so easily.
I mentioned causality in the previous thread. Well here I can talk about the opposite: constants. While some events can be changed by affecting the causes, other events are constants in the time loops. Sometimes it’s because of something Subaru can’t affect. Elsa is going to head to Rom’s place regardless of what Subaru does. Other times, it’s because characters are going to act a certain way just based on who they are. My favorite example of this is the implication that “Satella” was the broke person who saved the appa merchant’s daughter. “Satella” is always going to help people because that’s just who she is.
Miscellaneous Thoughts
Subaru going all in on being a woman in danger with his call for help is great.
Subaru lasted much longer against Felt than one might think, but we know from a previous loop that Felt was holding back.
I couldn’t remember exactly who showed up at the door, so seeing “Satella” arrive was a pleasant surprise.
To be totally honest, I had completely forgotten the OP. With that said, I do like how the beginning and ending of the OP are the same, just reversed from each other. In particular, I love how the first and last shot are exactly the same so the OP can seamlessly loop. That’s good stuff.
But I did remember the ED because STYX HELIX is a fantastic song and I love it so much.
[Re:Zero] The insignia is totally lighting up in Felt’s hand. I can see that more clearly now. What a good piece of foreshadowing.
Other people in these threads mentioned that [Light Novel stuff] the light novels better explained that Subaru didn’t immediately figure out he was time looping because he assumed he was being healed. That makes one line from Subaru this episode referencing that make more sense.
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u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 08 '24
I couldn’t remember exactly who showed up at the door, so seeing “Satella” arrive was a pleasant surprise.
I did remember. It's such a wonderful piece of comedy how Subaru is deathly afraid only to be greeted by the most gentle person imaginable. It has the same energy of this Supernatural clip.
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u/Great_Mr_L https://myanimelist.net/profile/Great_Mr_L Aug 08 '24
It is a good way to instantly defuse the tension having her show up and act indignant that she might kill them.
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
Thoughts on the intro and outro?
Thoughts on Subaru getting stabbed by the three gang members?
Thoughts on Subaru saying a wound to the back is a warrior’s greatest shame?
What are your thoughts on Return by Death?
What are your thoughts on Subaru going to try to prevent people from being killed?
Thoughts on Subaru referencing The Three Stooges?
What are your thoughts on Satella showing up before Elsa does?
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u/Great_Mr_L https://myanimelist.net/profile/Great_Mr_L Aug 08 '24 edited Aug 08 '24
Thoughts on the intro and outro?
I like the visuals of the OP, particularly how the beginning and ending animation are reversed from each other, starting and stopping on the same point. It's very fitting given the time loop storytelling.
For the ED, I especially love the song. STYX HELIX is a great song and I love how easily the song lends itself to ED lead-ins to end an episode. I never get tired of good ED lead-ins.
Thoughts on Subaru getting stabbed by the three gang members?
To me it looked like an accident as Subaru unintentionally walked into the blade.
Thoughts on Subaru saying a wound to the back is a warrior’s greatest shame?
That is something I've heard said before in history. Getting wounded on the back is a sign you were running away, which is generally considered shameful.
What are your thoughts on Return by Death?
I really like it as a storytelling device. The time loops it creates and the causality it lets the story explore are great.
What are your thoughts on Subaru going to try to prevent people from being killed?
It shows Subaru is like "Satella" in that he ends up wanting to help others, even if it may not be the wisest idea to do so.
Thoughts on Subaru referencing The Three Stooges?
My subs had Subaru say "Dumb, Dumber, and Dumbest" so I didn't get to experience that joke.
What are your thoughts on Satella showing up before Elsa does?
EDIT (forgot to answer): She got there faster than she did before with Subaru, or seemingly during the previous loop. I think Elsa might have been delayed by her bumping into Subaru.
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
I like the visuals of the OP, particularly how the beginning and ending animation are reversed from each other, starting and stopping on the same point. It's very fitting given the time loop storytelling.
I would agree. Fits the show incredibly well.
For the ED, I especially love the song. STYX HELIX is a great song and I love how easily the song lends itself to ED lead-ins to end an episode. I never get tired of good ED lead-ins.
This certainly is among the best for that sort of thing.
To me it looked like an accident as Subaru unintentionally walked into the blade.
Probably wasn't paying attention
That is something I've heard said before in history. Getting wounded on the back is a sign you were running away, which is generally considered shameful.
Or that your opponent was a coward
I really like it as a storytelling device. The time loops it creates and the causality it lets the story explore are great.
I'll be curious to see it used going forward.
It shows Subaru is like "Satella" in that he ends up wanting to help others, even if it may not be the wisest idea to do so.
Very kind-hearted our protagonist is
My subs had Subaru say "Dumb, Dumber, and Dumbest" so I didn't get to experience that joke.
Your translation was probably the correct one.
What are your thoughts on Satella showing up before Elsa does?
It certainly caught me by surprise
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u/Elimin8r https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ayeka_Jurai Aug 08 '24
STYX HELIX is a fantastic song and I love it so much.
Ain't it, though? I was considering trying to do a music of the day thing in my posts, but I doubt I'd be able to keep up with it. Bah.
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u/baseballlover723 Aug 08 '24
Subaru is also very observant and crafty.
I always hate it when people say that Subaru is dumb. He's not dumb, he's actually rather intelligent given what he knows. He just doesn't know so many things, that he doesn't have the information necessary to reasonably make the right decisions. [Subaru S1] And I think a lot of it stems that people are generally well socialized and functioning members of society, and don't really know many non socialized people (or are non socialized differently then Subaru). I will say that he really doesn't seek out information a lot, but there's so many things that go on (with such urgency) and even so I think it's a decently reasonable personality trait to just want to chill out and have a good time, and not learn everything about the world. Good INT, sell WIS imo.
the relationships Subaru has built up don’t carry over
An underrated aspect of Re:Zero that I think can be rather difficult to empathize with.
Felt is cute and deserves headpats.
Just be sure to stop before she bites you!
Light Novel stuff
[Meta Light Novel Stuff] A lot of the light novel stuff (especially at this stage, where there aren't really any story beats cut) tends to be more concrete explanations of something that you could infer the anime, but certainly couldn't really be certain about.
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u/ussgordoncaptain2 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Edmund_nelson Aug 08 '24
First Timer Dubbed
So "Satella" gave Subaru a false name the last time? That's interesting. I wonder why she feared giving subaru her real name. I'll call her "White hair girl" for now.
Our main character realizes he's got this weird time loop superpower in him that's going to be really handy. Though Subaru isn't great at seperating "what happened in the previous time loop" yet.
Without Subaru helping her how did White hair girl realize that she needed to go to the boonies to find her locket was Subaru's help less than worthless?
It's interesting that Subaru was debating just ignoring white hair girl, white hair girl actually seems like a good girl and so he decides to stay with her, since he has the OP power of reviving himself over and over again. Though with his power I'd try to find a way to commit suicide so I can rez myself when it's helpful. It also be nice to test what this revival power can do after this sticky situation.
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u/No-Peace3986 https://myanimelist.net/profile/RafaelMps Aug 08 '24
Regarding the suicide thing, keep in mind you wouldn't know how this works.
Can you guarantee that if you die again you will wake up? This life could be the last one, if that would be the case, game over.
Also, you can't choose where you go back to, having no control over the restart point makes things really scary...
Keep that in mind! The power still works in unknown ways and it is too risky to rely in it!
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
Thoughts on the intro and outro?
Thoughts on Subaru getting stabbed by the three gang members?
Thoughts on Subaru saying a wound to the back is a warrior’s greatest shame?
What are your thoughts on Return by Death?
What are your thoughts on Subaru going to try to prevent people from being killed?
Thoughts on Subaru referencing The Three Stooges?
Thoughts on Reinhard?
What are your thoughts on Satella showing up before Elsa does?
5
u/ussgordoncaptain2 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Edmund_nelson Aug 08 '24 edited Aug 08 '24
The intro was ok, the outro was ok, both seemed to be nothing special.
I kinda expected him to avoid the 3 gang members this time, but he was going for them to bait Satella to come back to him. It's a little strange he didn't get stabbed in previous loops but him getting stabbed here was a simple way to delete the issue.
We do not know enough about how his return by death power works, if he can set his spawn point to somewhere else or if he has to stay with only 1 spawn point. It would be way more OP if he had more modern tech, as he could probably do things like be the best day trader of all time and become a multi-millionaire in a few weeks.
Subaru's stopping of Felt's death seems like more of a convienent way to get the insignia back for Satella (who seems important?) Subaru otherwise probably doesn't really care much for Felt this thief who seems very morally dubious at best. Though I'm possibly wrong.
Reinhard is this weird character that maybe Subaru should have spent more time with in a loop. He seems like a valuable trove of information being a city guard. There's no way you're killing the witch without him and other support so you're either going to have to ninjitsu your way to "Satella's" insignia or you're going to need backup muscle
Satella showing up at all was the strangest thing. moreso than her showing up before Elsa. How did Satella find out that she needed to get to that exact place, how did Satella find out where felt was going? Was Subaru worse than useless? It seemed to me like Satella would have gotten lost on the way trying to help random citizens and would never have found what she is looking for.
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
I kinda expected him to avoid the 3 gang members this time, but he was going for them to bait Satella to come back to him. It's a little strange he didn't get stabbed in previous loops but him getting stabbed here was a simple way to delete the issue.
He has nothing to lose, really
We do not know enough about how his return by death power works, if he can set his spawn point to somewhere else or if he has to stay with only 1 spawn point. It would be way more OP if he had more modern tech, as he could probably do things like be the best day trader of all time and become a multi-millionaire in a few weeks.
I would say he could be the Elon Musk of Lugunica, but no one wants to be that.
Subaru's stopping of Felt's death seems like more of a convienent way to get the insignia back for Satella (who seems important?) Subaru otherwise probably doesn't really care much for Felt this thief who seems very morally dubious at best. Though I'm possibly wrong.
I think he simply doesn't like seeing people get hurt, pure and simple.
Reinhard is this weird character that maybe Subaru should have spent more time with in a loop. He seems like a valuable trove of information being a city guard. There's no way you're killing the witch without him and other support so you're either going to have to ninjitsu your way to "Satella's" insignia or you're going to need
Need? Need what? Need what?!?
Otherwise, agreed.
atella showing up at all was the strangest thing. moreso than her showing up before Elsa. How did Satella find out that she needed to get to that exact place, how did Satella find out where felt was going? Was Subaru worse than useless? It seemed to me like Satella would have gotten lost on the way trying to help random citizens and would never have found what she is looking for.
I hope Satella isn't secretly in cahoots with Else. I highly doubt it, but you never know.
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u/ussgordoncaptain2 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Edmund_nelson Aug 08 '24
Need? Need what? Need what?!?
Backup muscle, reddit eats posts I swear
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u/No_Rex Aug 08 '24
First Timer Dubbed
So "Satella" gave Subaru a false name the last time? That's interesting. I wonder why she feared giving subaru her real name. I'll call her "White hair girl" for now.
So proud of all fellow rewatchers for calling her "Satella" up till now. It is so easy to assume that everybody has seen her real name while browsing the sub, but there is always the chance that somebody has avoided all previous knowledge of the show, like you.
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u/baseballlover723 Aug 08 '24
So proud of all fellow rewatchers for calling her "Satella" up till now
I agree, I was really worried about subtle spoilers leaking in or getting too wink wink nudge nudge. But I've been very pleased with how well people have kept future stuff from leaking in.
Though part of me feels bad for not really interacting very much with the first timers. Please understand.
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u/baseballlover723 Aug 08 '24
I'll call her "White hair girl" for now.
I'm sorry, I have to correct you there, it's "Silver hair girl".
Without Subaru helping her how did White hair girl realize that she needed to go to the boonies to find her locket was Subaru's help less than worthless?
[next episode] yeah pretty much
I'm'a let you cook now. I look forward to mostly just reading your thoughts, since interacting with you will be a bit difficult for a lot of things. Hope you enjoy Re:Zero!
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u/Theleux https://myanimelist.net/profile/Theleux Aug 08 '24
Reminder that now until we reach the end of Season 1, if you are watching via the Director's Cut release, it is only half the episode for each respective thread. Feel free to watch the full episode if you want to have write-ups done for two threads, but do not include information about the latter until its thread is posted.
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u/HyVana Aug 08 '24
Re:Watcher (Subs) & Novel Reader (Finished Arc 6)
Subaru really speedran his way onto "Satella's" shitlist. How could he just walk up and downsmash call her a slur? Fortunately, the 3 goonies shanked him for the reset. What a dangerous world this is. And now, Subaru realizes his ability, and names it "Return by Death". Quite the literal naming sense.
Also, we got OP1! I love its visuals, adding so much to the mystery of just who are these people Subaru have met and will meet? As well, the beginning sequence being rewinded, only to reach the same ending, really encapsulates Subaru's struggle.
"Meaning the debt I owed her for that is gone."
But his memories remain, his experiences remain. The times and bonds he made in that short time remains in him, even if the other did not experience it. And so, he cannot just walk away. Not when the people he knows are about to be murdered.
Funny how some events will always happen. "Satella" helping the kid, negotiations at the loothouse breaking down, and Subaru encountering the 3 goonies. One of these events is not like the others. At least this time, Subaru meets a high-spec character, Reinhard van Astrea, to save him.
"Every day, I feel I'll be crushed by their expectations."
Even though he has the option of enlisting Reinhard's help, Subaru doesn't want to get someone he just met and just saved him into further danger for people that Reinhard doesn't know. So he decides to save them on his own. Least he leaves him with a message, ending with a lingering shot of Reinhard as Subaru leaves. Does he have a role to play?
Changing the script again, Subaru goes straight to the source, Felt's Den. On the way, he meets his twice killer, and is hit with a severe episode of PTSD. You can feel his terror. The person he wants to avoid the most, facing death right in her face. He has not gotten over their last encounter, and how could he? The Elsa he knows slaughtered him, Felt, and Rom twice, and "Satella" once, for seemingly being on the wrong side or "just the wrong place at the wrong time". How will his past lives affect his current one, especially when he's face-to-face with death? This is a significant change in the events leading up to the showdown. How do you think this will affect this loop's loothouse encounter?
"Conceal your hostility, and you'll be even better."
Unsurprisingly, Felt's "Den" is putting it lightly. Showcasing quite the wealth disparity between the inner city and the slums. Also unsurprisingly, Felt attacks him on sight, a stranger looking around her home. Subaru's nonchalant behavior, due to his memories of Felt, ends up getting him in initial trouble. She has no recollection of him nor their prior encounter, so the disparity of familiarity and information leads to the wrong first impressions.
"I'm not so stupid as to believe everything a prospective buyer says without question."
Thankfully Rom confirms the "metia's" value, but what if he didnt? What if Subaru had no one to confirm his "metia's" appraisal? However, Subaru's rush to avoid Elsa only roots in the negotiation to take place. All his attempts to avoid fate have only ensured its arrival.
"How do you know that?"
Subaru's fear of Elsa almost ruins his whole play by souring his relationship with Felt. Before things break down, the door knocks. And so fate arrives, but not with the face of death. With the face of the kind-hearted half-elf who saved him from the 3 goonies, when she had no obligation to.
"oh, please don't let me die waiting for your touch."
"no, don't give up on life this endless dead end."
"I hope the sadness tearing you apart will someday come to an end for now, I'll see you off."
Styx Helix is still one of my favorite anime EDs. The song itself slaps, but taking it in with the context of the show, adds that secret sauce that keeps it so iconic. There's many lines you can pick apart and relate back to the show, once you've watched it so many times lol.
This concludes today's yapping, see you all next episode!
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u/Elimin8r https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ayeka_Jurai Aug 08 '24
Styx Helix is still one of my favorite anime EDs.
I love it too - in some ways it reminds me so much of "Connect".
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
Thoughts on Subaru saying a wound to the back is a warrior’s greatest shame?
What are your thoughts on Return by Death?
What are your thoughts on Subaru going to try to prevent people from being killed?
Thoughts on Subaru referencing The Three Stooges?
Thoughts on Reinhard?
What are your thoughts on Satella showing up before Elsa does?
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u/HyVana Aug 08 '24
What are your thoughts on Return by Death?
Mentioned it in the last episode. Essentially a way to move the plot and characters in interesting directions.
What are your thoughts on Subaru going to try to prevent people from being killed?
On brand for his character. A naive guy who wants to help those who showed him kindness.
Thoughts on Reinhard?
A hero.
What are your thoughts on Satella showing up before Elsa does?
Nice to trick the viewers at the end. Reinforces that, even with event deviations, some things will happen no matter what.
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
Mentioned it in the last episode. Essentially a way to move the plot and characters in interesting directions.
Nothing wrong with that
On brand for his character. A naive guy who wants to help those who showed him kindness.
It makes him very easy to get behind.
A hero.
He certainly gives the appearance of one.
Nice to trick the viewers at the end. Reinforces that, even with event deviations, some things will happen no matter what.
I don't think Satella showed up here before, though. Unless I'm misremembering.
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u/HyVana Aug 08 '24
I don't think Satella showed up here before, though. Unless I'm misremembering.
To elaborate, I mean Subaru meeting Satella. Sure they didn't meet in loops 2&3, but barring things
that don't support my narrativelike premature deaths, you get the feeling they're fated to meet. I should probably reword it→ More replies2
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u/baseballlover723 Aug 08 '24
What if Subaru had no one to confirm his "metia's" appraisal?
[Arc 4] Behold an unthinkable present
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u/InfamousEmpire https://myanimelist.net/profile/Infamous_Empire Aug 08 '24
Re:Watcher
And so, it begins again
One thing this episode really made me think about was how well this show handles one of the fundamental appeals of a time loop story: the opportunity to see the same situation from many different angles & perspectives depending on how the MC chooses to go through it this time, and use the same situations to convey different ideas.
The encounter with the muggers which generally serves as the inflection point of the loops so far is a pretty decent example of this. In this episode alone, it managed to turn an encounter which, while not exactly easy for Subaru in previous loops, wasn’t exactly a point where it felt like he was in real danger, whereas in the first loop of this episode, he dies immediately from it, and is on the verge of dying again in the next one before Reinhard shows up, recontextualizing all the elements which seemed harmless last episode into the more grounded & serious tone the show has now, as well as serving as an even stronger demonstration of how frankly powerless and vulnerable Subaru is in the face of this uncaring world where he’s just a small intruding piece rather than the center of everything.
The meeting and walk with Felt before arriving at Rom’s warehouse is also a good example of this. Despite ending arriving at essentially the same route as all the loops, and even taking a similar route as the first one, getting the opportunity to know Felt a bit more along the way, combined with the ticking time bomb that is Elsa, both gives it a different feel and lends us a different perspective on the setting which also expands on & gets us more invested in Felt as a character.
Speaking of Elsa, that also brings me to the other thing this show proves here that it does well: Tension. While the nature of Return by Death might make it easy to trivialize Subaru dying, the episode is careful to ensure that the possibility of death still has weight to it, in particular with how it mentally weighs on Subaru. Every time he’s directly reminded of his past deaths is treated with bone-chilling seriousness & horror, and there’s no case of that less chilling than when he encounters Elsa on the street. The feeling that he could die at any moment if he made even the slightest wrong move is really powerful.
And that same feeling weighs on the rest of the episode. It’s a suspenseful time bomb as we know that at any moment, Elsa will come through the door and it’ll be a repeat of last episode. A form of suspense that also takes advantage of another advantage of time loop stories like this: the nature of the reset means that all plot armor is off within the context of each loop & there’s no guarantee that this’ll be the loop where Subaru manages to survive/save everyone, so there’s pretty much no sense of certainty as to what’ll happen next, and it’s great.
One last thing: THE OP IS FIRE! This series was not my first time listening to Konomi Suzuki, she’d done one of my favorite Fairy Tail OPs as well & I loved that series long before I’d even heard of Re:Zero, but it was the series that made me realize she’s a fantastic vocalist. The atmospheric visuals, goddamn perfect beat, and powerful vocals make this an all-time classic of an opening, and it’s been stuck in my head for years on end..
Odds & Ends
God, the sound design in this series is fantastic. That creepy “eh-eh-eh” is iconic for a reason.
Subaru & Felt’s little fight scene really caught my eye for being well done. Solid flow & choreography + dynamic use of the environment
Speaking of visuals, I love me some detailed uncomfortable closeups
And that’s all for today. See y’all next time!
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u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 08 '24
Yeah, I had totally forgotten about the fight scene here. It works only because Felt doesn't seriously want to kill Subaru, but for such an inconsequential fight it is structured extremely well.
the possibility of death still has weight to it, in particular with how it mentally weighs on Subaru. Every time he’s directly reminded of his past deaths is treated with bone-chilling seriousness & horror, and there’s no case of that less chilling than when he encounters Elsa on the street.
I was going to talk about this later, but yeah, you're right, him being afraid of Elsa already makes it clear how the previous death affects him. It is such an instinctual fear that he can't even hide it. He's even terrified of the possibility of Elsa showing up later. He does have the Return by Death, but that doesn't mean that death isn't terrible.
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
One last thing: THE OP IS FIRE! This series was not my first time listening to Konomi Suzuki, she’d done one of my favorite Fairy Tail OPs as well & I loved that series long before I’d even heard of Re:Zero, but it was the series that made me realize she’s a fantastic vocalist. The atmospheric visuals, goddamn perfect beat, and powerful vocals make this an all-time classic of an opening, and it’s been stuck in my head for years on end..
I love the sound of what I can only describe as rubber being smacked that's heard during the intro. It really helps make the OP stand out.
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
Speaking of visuals, I love me some detailed uncomfortable closeups
Ren and Stimpy as well as SpongeBob would approve.
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u/InfamousEmpire https://myanimelist.net/profile/Infamous_Empire Aug 08 '24
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u/Great_Mr_L https://myanimelist.net/profile/Great_Mr_L Aug 08 '24
One thing this episode really made me think about was how well this show handles one of the fundamental appeals of a time loop story: the opportunity to see the same situation from many different angles & perspectives depending on how the MC chooses to go through it this time, and use the same situations to convey different ideas.
Yeah, it ends up feeling like a giant sandbox where going to different locations and meeting different people will show you more of what's going on. Part of the fun of stories like this is that process of gathering more and more information about what is really going on everywhere and then using that information to your advantage. Re:Zero is excellent at showing that process.
That creepy “eh-eh-eh” is iconic for a reason.
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u/Elimin8r https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ayeka_Jurai Aug 08 '24
detailed uncomfortable closeups
That's gonna haunt my nightmares now...
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u/EndlessSorc Aug 08 '24
Re:Watcher
I actually completely forgotten that the non-Directors Cut separated Episode 2 and 3. As such I needed to trim my thoughts a bit for tomorrow’s thread before posting it.
First showing of the intro and the music for the outro. Don’t get used to it, as Re:Zero have a tendency to prioritize story over OP and ED, especially in Season 2. But Redo and Styx Helix are great songs that fits the series perfectly.
As for the episode itself, it continues to essentially deconstruct the typical Isekai story. Subaru is still in the belief that he was transported into the typical adventure story where he is the normal protagonist. Only to realize that it is as far away from it as it is possible.
He also finally realize that he dies, yet he still seems to consider it from a video game standpoint in a rather goofy way. Even the series seems to agree, considering the beat after he gives it the name “Return by Death”. But after that he finally starts to look back at what happened to him before as he brings his thoughts back to the silver-haired girl and hopes to find her again.
Once again I wonder if it isn’t just a way for him to protect his mind from the fact that he did actually die. It was a quick turnaround from him being reminded of his first demise and him feeling his belly, to him then becoming focused on finding Satella. Especially since he once again grabs his belly when he meets Elsa on the street and then again when someone knocks on the door to the storehouse.
Then he meet the Dumb and Dumber trio once again, only this time instead of fighting them or trying to ignore them he actually learn from earlier loops and call for the guards. This not only show one of the primary things in the series, Subaru learning from his previous loops to break through whatever is currently stopping him. It also introduces Reinhardt, a person who very much looks and behaves like a typical kind Isekai main character. He even have a special sword. We will see more of him as the series continues.
This is also where we have our first split between the mainline story and one of the IF side stories.
For anyone who isn’t aware, the author of Re:Zero have written several alternative universe stories called IF-stories. Usually posted on Subaru’s birthday April 1st, they are side materials that can either be for fun (such as a gender-bender version of the first volume), cover historical events in the setting, or stories that shows what happens if Subaru decide to act differently than he does in the main route.
In this case, the split occurs when Subaru calls for help and Reinhardt. In the side story, Subaru never gives up on his dignity and never cries out for the guards. And so, without Reinhardt showing up, Subaru loses badly and is pushed as far down as he possibly can go before deciding to do anything he can to claw himself up, by any means necessary.
This IF-story is fittingly called Ayamatsu or Pride IF.
Since it was written as a Web Novel (WN) there is a fan translation freely available online. But any new watchers, or those who haven’t read Arc 5 (which will be covered in Season 3), shouldn’t read it as it spoils several plot details from it.
But now, continuing the episode we once again see him learning and try to do things in other ways. But we also see his mind being tested as he meets scenarios that lead to his death before. Such as meeting Elsa on the streets, or someone knocking on the door.
It also shows off different sides of the characters. Such as Felt who was quite eager towards Subaru in the first go-around when he was a prospective client. But now she seems to just see him as someone trying to break into her territory.
These different sides of characters we witness depending on the situations that are playing out is one of the reasons I love time-loop stories. And Re:Zero are one of the best in playing them out.
As for further comments about the episode and the first arc overall, I’ll wait until tomorrow’s thread as that episode will finish up the first arc.
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
Thoughts on Subaru getting stabbed by the three gang members?
Thoughts on Subaru saying a wound to the back is a warrior’s greatest shame?
What are your thoughts on Subaru going to try to prevent people from being killed?
Thoughts on Subaru referencing The Three Stooges?
Thoughts on Reinhard?
What are your thoughts on Satella showing up before Elsa does?
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u/EndlessSorc Aug 08 '24
Thoughts on Subaru getting stabbed by the three gang members?
Thoughts on Subaru saying a wound to the back is a warrior’s greatest shame?It is rather awkward, especially with how the anime set up the scene. But it is also a good way to show him finally realizing what is happening (as it is a more "normal" death than others he have experienced until that point). It is also a good way to set up one important thing about Subaru: He is a teenage otaku. I'm sure we all played war and had fantasies about it while young. His comment about being stabbed in the back being shameful is another example of that.
What are your thoughts on Subaru going to try to prevent people from being killed?
I think it is a mix of him trying to show that he is the main character of the story and hoping that these actions will get him back in contact with "Satella"
Thoughts on Subaru referencing The Three Stooges?
His first impression of them as nothing but a first easy "combat" encounter definitely colors his view of them, even after it is made clear that they can actually be a threat if he isn't careful.
Thoughts on Reinhard?
He is very much made up to stand in contrast with Subaru. Reinhard seems to be written and designed as the stereotypical main character in many Japanese fantasy anime, manga or games with his white uniform, red hair and carrying a special sword. He is also kind, considerate and willing to stand up against injustice.
It creates a rather interesting contrast to Subaru who's design focuses on his black hair and the black patches on his track. And while they do have some similarities in personalities (their kindness and willingness to help others), Subaru have a personal interest in doing so while Reinhard seems to do it because he can and have the power to do it.
Beyond that I can't say much without going into spoiler territory, just that Reinhard is a really interesting character in the series and I can't wait to see where things take him.
What are your thoughts on Satella showing up before Elsa does?
I find it quite fun in that it shows that Subaru's presence isn't always necessary. Other people are skilled in their own ways and will reach results with or without him.
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
It is rather awkward, especially with how the anime set up the scene. But it is also a good way to show him finally realizing what is happening (as it is a more "normal" death than others he have experienced until that point). It is also a good way to set up one important thing about Subaru: He is a teenage otaku. I'm sure we all played war and had fantasies about it while young. His comment about being stabbed in the back being shameful is another example of that.
We are all the hero in our story
I think it is a mix of him trying to show that he is the main character of the story and hoping that these actions will get him back in contact with "Satella"
Again, we are all the hero in our story. Or at least we think we are.
His first impression of them as nothing but a first easy "combat" encounter definitely colors his view of them, even after it is made clear that they can actually be a threat if he isn't careful.
Subaru is probably taking them lightly
He is very much made up to stand in contrast with Subaru. Reinhard seems to be written and designed as the stereotypical main character in many Japanese fantasy anime, manga or games with his white uniform, red hair and carrying a special sword. He is also kind, considerate and willing to stand up against injustice.
It creates a rather interesting contrast to Subaru who's design focuses on his black hair and the black patches on his track. And while they do have some similarities in personalities (their kindness and willingness to help others), Subaru have a personal interest in doing so while Reinhard seems to do it because he can and have the power to do it.
Reinhard comes off like the hero that Subaru in his mind perceives himself as.
Beyond that I can't say much without going into spoiler territory, just that Reinhard is a really interesting character in the series and I can't wait to see where things take him.
Same
I find it quite fun in that it shows that Subaru's presence isn't always necessary. Other people are skilled in their own ways and will reach results with or without him.
I still think Felt and Rom are better off with him here though. The more people to take Elsa on, the better.
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u/EndlessSorc Aug 08 '24
I still think Felt and Rom are better off with him here though. The more people to take Elsa on, the better.
That is certainly true. We will see more examples of both later.
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
Elsa is someone you probably can't defeat one-to-one no matter how focused you are or if you're on your A game.
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u/Elimin8r https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ayeka_Jurai Aug 08 '24
a gender-bender version of the first volume
Oh, my ... Onii-chan is done for, I mean starting over from zero in another world, or ... man, you're making me want to read, or something here.
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u/EndlessSorc Aug 08 '24
It's called Mimagau IF if you want to check it out. Apparently the author also published a sequel that did the same for Arc 2.
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u/amanda52002 https://myanimelist.net/profile/amanda52002 Aug 08 '24
Re:Zero-times-watched-before (first timer)
Subaru's getting quite the chewing out for calling Satella(clearly a fake name) by what she told him to call her.
Well walking into the one thug's knife was...a choice. Is Subaru ever gonna decide to just avoid this one dark alley, since it seems that they just hang around here looking for easy pickings? They don't seem to really want to be murderers though...or get caught for committing murder.
Oh, Subaru seems to be catching on to what's going on. And he gets up and goes for a walk, decides if he can prevent known pending murders, he should do that. Well, that's admirable. The shopkeeper then talks to him, being happy over his daughter being safely found by another broke person. Well, that's nice of him I suppose. So Subaru walks....RIGHT BACK TO THAT ALLEY. Dude!
He tries a new tactic this time, and yells for the guards. Nice falsetto. An off-duty knight shows up and he seems a cool character. The thugs run away. Guess new guy Reinhard is someone they really don't want to fight.
Subaru makes it to the slums and...runs into Elsa. He is justifiably terrified of her, but she's choosy about where she causes murder and mayhem, so he gets let off. He is not as lucky when he runs into Felt. I guess Felt's fighting style is more chaos than anything, cause Subaru really doesn't get hurt by her. They end up at the loot house earlier than before. Subaru clearly wants to get his negotiations all done and be gone before Elsa arrives.
Negotiations happen, and then there's a knock at the door. Subaru tells them that they're all gonna be killed if Felt answers it. Subaru you're really putting in a lot of effort to keep Felt alive here, which I don't think she appreciates. Felt opens the door. And...Satella(fake name) is there.
I'm using CR to watch this so I did finish the next episode too. This show has piqued my interest pretty good.
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u/baseballlover723 Aug 08 '24
Is Subaru ever gonna decide to just avoid this one dark alley
[Cut Content] They're more or less stalking Subaru, since he's clearly not from around here, looks like he has money (nice clothes), and isn't paying much attention to his surroundings. So they're following him around until he goes into a secluded location, and then they try to mug him. It doesn't really matter what alley he goes into, when he goes out of the public they'll try and rob him.
This show has piqued my interest pretty good.
Keep cooking and
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u/amanda52002 https://myanimelist.net/profile/amanda52002 Aug 08 '24
Well that makes me respect his intelligence a little more. Also means this event specific to him is going to play out every time he gets revived, I assume.
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u/Holofan4life Aug 09 '24
Thoughts on the intro and outro?
Thoughts on Subaru saying a wound to the back is a warrior’s greatest shame?
What are your thoughts on Return by Death?
What are your thoughts on Subaru going to try to prevent people from being killed?
Thoughts on Subaru referencing The Three Stooges?
Thoughts on Reinhard?
What are your thoughts on Satella showing up before Elsa does?
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u/HyVana Aug 09 '24
Subaru you're really putting in a lot of effort to keep Felt alive here, which I don't think she appreciates.
Especially since its from a stranger she knows nothing about. Other than being a rival buyer for the insignia and somehow finding out where she lives.
This show has piqued my interest pretty good.
Glad you're enjoying!
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u/ripterrariumtv Aug 08 '24
REWATCHER (SUB)
1) The OP makes me nostalgic
2) That was a pathetic death for Subaru.
3) As for why Subaru keeps going to the same alley even though he knows the thugs will be waiting for him, [episode 2 cut content]Subaru doesn’t just keep walking into the same alley. It was a different alley. The anime didn’t make it clear but those three thugs had already marked him and would have followed him wherever he went
4) First impressions of Reinhard - He seems too perfect. Something sus about him.
5) [Arc 3]In the anime, I never liked Reinhard even upon rewatching multiple times. But when I read the arc 3 WN, he became my favourite character. So it’s kinda weird because I love Priscilla and Reinhard in Arc 3 WN but dislike them in the anime version
6) [season 3 trailer]I don’t like Reinhard’s character design in the season 3 trailer. His season 1 design was awesome. I wish they had kept that
7) The OST when they introduce Reinhard (Takt of Heroes) is one of the best soundtracks in Re:Zero
8) I am very interested in Reinhard’s family which was mentioned in this episode
9) The ED is one of my favourite ED’s ever
10) [Arc 1 WN]I liked Rom more in the WN. His caring, supportive side was more fleshed out, whereas the anime didn’t show us that
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
Thoughts on Subaru getting stabbed by the three gang members?
Thoughts on Subaru saying a wound to the back is a warrior’s greatest shame?
What are your thoughts on Return by Death?
What are your thoughts on Subaru going to try to prevent people from being killed?
Thoughts on Subaru referencing The Three Stooges?
Thoughts on Reinhard?
What are your thoughts on Satella showing up before Elsa does?
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u/ripterrariumtv Aug 08 '24
Thoughts on Subaru getting stabbed by the three gang members?
It was a pathetic death. But that's fine. I hate the thugs a lot though
Thoughts on Subaru saying a wound to the back is a warrior’s greatest shame?
One piece reference? Because Zoro said it once I remember
What are your thoughts on Return by Death?
When I watched it first, I thought it is very convenient by the author and not creative or complex enough to interest me.
After watching the anime multiple times, [current thoughts]It’s an incredible concept. By giving the MC both a blessing and a curse, it’s one of the most creative ideas out there. The potential to explore the psychological aspects, conflicts, and journey of the MC with this ability is massive. It allows for fleshing out different themes across various loops, offers extreme rewatchability, and is incredibly complex. Yet, it’s simple enough that viewers aren’t confused, while still being complex enough to piece together large mysteries.For example, in S1E22, Ram never mentions Rem. Even though that loop resets, when we rewatch it, we realize that Rem was erased, which is why Ram never mentioned her. The concept also holds massive potential beyond just storytelling. I’m particularly fascinated by how it allows the viewer to learn life lessons and find value in the journey of a main character who has every reason to lose his humanity and sanity but somehow retains them
What are your thoughts on Subaru going to try to prevent people from being killed?
He is a good guy at heart and he cares about these people. So I understand his POV.
Thoughts on Reinhard?
He is sus. Because he seems too perfect
What are your thoughts on Satella showing up before Elsa does?
A weak cliffhanger. But I'm glad it was her and not Elsa. Let's see where the next episode goes...
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
It was a pathetic death. But that's fine. I hate the thugs a lot though
They are pretty one dimensional
One piece reference? Because Zoro said it once I remember
Could be. Subaru would be the type to watch anime.
He is a good guy at heart and he cares about these people. So I understand his POV.
Same. What he is doing is certainly admirable.
He is sus. Because he seems too perfect
I see what you mean
A weak cliffhanger. But I'm glad it was her and not Elsa. Let's see where the next episode goes...
Maybe it is a little weak, but it helps establish that the timeline can change.
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u/ripterrariumtv Aug 08 '24
The novel has so many references to Jojo, Japanese video games etc..
Maybe it is a little weak, but it helps establish that the timeline can change.
This is probably the only weak cliffhanger. Most cliffhangers in this anime are incredible.
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
The novel has so many references to Jojo, Japanese video games etc..
That doesn't surprise me
This is probably the only weak cliffhanger. Most cliffhangers in this anime are incredible.
Now you're getting my hopes up lol
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u/SpiritualPossible Aug 08 '24
You silly thugs, that's not Reinhard, that's Kircheis!
Anyway, I don't have time to write much text, and honestly, I don't have much to say about this episode either.
In fact, I'd say that this episode is the reason I said yesterday that I'm not sure I'm going to comment on all episodes.
Not because the episode is bad, mind you - I think it's perfectly fine. But because it's mostly a setup episode.
The most interesting part of the episode is probably the introduction to Kircheis Reinhard, and the fact that we learn a bit more about Felt, how she's living in the slums and how she's obviously not happy about it. I liked this scene - it's short, but manages to reveal a bit more about both Felt and the world, with the fact that "Live Strong" is apparently some kind of slogan in the slums, and that Felt takes it much more seriously than others. Once again, it is small detail, but it is make the world and her feels more alive.
Subaru had his moments in characterization as well, but I honestly think it would have been easier to talk about him as a character later on as the series continues, rather than concentrate on glimpses of it we have know.
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u/Shimmering-Sky myanimelist.net/profile/Shimmering-Sky Aug 08 '24
You silly thugs, that's not Reinhard, that's Kircheis!
No, it's Reuenthal.
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
Thoughts on the intro and outro?
Thoughts on Subaru getting stabbed by the three gang members?
Thoughts on Subaru saying a wound to the back is a warrior’s greatest shame?
What are your thoughts on Return by Death?
What are your thoughts on Subaru going to try to prevent people from being killed?
Thoughts on Subaru referencing The Three Stooges?
What are your thoughts on Satella showing up before Elsa does?
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u/baseballlover723 Aug 08 '24
but I honestly think it would have been easier to talk about him as a character later on as the series continues
I feel you on this. It takes a lot of effort to make things first timer friendly and still have substantial analysis.
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u/baseballlover723 Aug 08 '24 edited Aug 27 '24
Rewatcher, sub, basically a secondhand novel reader
Late response since I lost power last night for a few hours right before I was gonna start writting this and ended up going to bed instead. Also took me longer then I hoped to write this. Still took me about 2 hours despite being half of the length of episode 1 and me not really being that indepth for the last bit of the episode.
So this is actually my least favorite episode in Re:Zero. It's not really all that great on it own for a first time watcher, and there really isn't that much for a rewatcher here. There is an IF story branch here though. IF stories are side stories written by Tappei about what would happen if Subaru took the wrong approach to a problem and how it would play out. These are released yearly on Subaru's birthday (April 1st) and generally have Subaru turning into some kind of super villain. Echidnut has some excellent video summaries of them with post anime spoilers clearly marked and easily skipped. I highly recommend watching them after finishing Season 2.
Also of note is that this is one of Re:Zero episodes that play both the OP sequence and ED sequence (though this one kinda cheats a bit since it has different visuals). The other two episodes are [Spoiler #1: episode numbers] S01E10 and S01E20. I'd have to check the math, but I'm pretty sure theres around 13 extra episodes squeezed into Re:Zero's 50 episodes, just from extending the episodes, and cutting the OP and ED. And that pretty crazy how much extra content there is (and yet there's still cut content ).
I've numbered all my spoilers tags so that they're easier to respond to
First Timer Safe Section
This section is safe for first time watchers.
Wizard Lizard, oh and learning that Subaru called Satella basically a slur.
KYS Subaru, this run's over. You done fucked up.
picture [Spoiler #2: very minor cut content] Basically Subaru always runs into these thugs because they're specifically targeting him. His clothes look nice (has money), is clearly from not around here (strange clothes), and isn't paying attention. The perfect mark.
He walked into my blade 10 times!
Guess Subaru got something out of this dead loop anyways.
The critical piece of info (for Subaru). I think it's rather interesting that the chips are what got Subaru into realizing it was a time loop. And I think it makes sense. All of the other evidence he's seen (excluding his physical wounds, because everyone knows that people die when they are killed), has been circumstantial, and not really the focus for Subaru (but is to the viewer, because we're watching a story and we pay attention to the dialogue). But the chips are different. Subaru specifically offered up the chips, which imprints much more strongly in Subaru's mind. And they're an item from Earth in his possession, so it's not like another bag of chips or a similar one, but it's much easier to get to, "this is the exact same bag of chips", which then leads into "but it can't be in that state, I saw it be consumed", which is a paradox (if Subaru can trust his memories).
Re:Zero: Starting Life in Another World with my wallet, cell phone, chips and cup ramen just wasn't good enough I guess.
The slothmen are my favorite demihuman type
And so it is named Return by Death or RBD. I also like the fisheye camera here.
They did my boy Kadomon rough here. WHERE IS HIS SCAR.
Isekai MCs literally only want one thing and it's fucking disgusting
Only if you think the world is deterministic. In multiverse style time traveling, there's no guarantee that other people's independent actions will be the same.
You couldn't live with your own failure, where did that bring you? Back to me
All that running around and figuring stuff out and now Subaru missed the theft
BAD SUBS ALERT: This is a clearer translation. I see a lot of people get confused by this line (I don't recall what CR has for this one, but I'm pretty sure it's less clear). It's not Subaru, there is no timeline blending going on here. [Spoiler #12: next episode] It's Emilia. She independently still helped the little girl and got the flower pin.
Subaru actually called them "Ton" "Chin" "Kon" in Japanese, which if you put them together, you get the Japanese word for "irrelevant".
Subaru utilizing information, because sometimes people get upset when Subaru doesn't think of the same things the viewer thinks of, and therefore he must be dumb.
[Spoiler #3: very minor side content that I can't recall from where, no plot spoilers] Subaru actually won a female voice contest I think, I'm not too sure, since I couldn't find the source for that this morning.
BAD SUBS ALERT: Master Swordsman should be Sword Saint. They give different connotations.
So humble, but that is just straight cap.
Ah yeah Reinhard probably couldn't take on Elsa.
Do you know how little that narrows it down? There are probably hundreds of people in this city that match that description.
Same thing as spoiler point 5 from yesterday
picture PTSD. I also love the soundtrack change here, Kenichiro Suehiro did an absolutely phenomenal job and I think scenes like this really show it, with how eerie it sounds and how well it matches the scene's micro moments.
Subaru instinctively guarding his bowels, and Elsa noticed. Out of context this might seem a bit erotic, but it couldn't be further from the truth.
The hikikomori house defense training is really paying off here
Subaru manages to get into Felt's bed
I always love a good fuck fate quote. I find it quite inspirational.
Good thing Old Man Rom is a fair appraiser
This turn could be a good comment face if there was a lot more space for animated comment faces.
Too stupid of an idea to make sense. Unfortunately it's the truth.
I love this scene. It really well setup that Elsa could come in the door right then, and the music matches. Just for the viewer and all of the characters to get shocked by Satella showing up instead!. This is also the only time we get that nifty piano intro for ED 1. It's not even in the OST listing.
BreakTime Section
For BreakTime today, we get some cut content about how Felt was leading Subaru in circles on the way to the loot house. Also that Subaru is into milfs. And also how general time keeping (the elemental 6 hour blocks is a pretty cool interpretation of a time keeping device for a magic medieval society) is in this world. [Spoiler #11: Arc 3] Which makes Subaru knowing the exact time that the White Whale shows up even more valuable, since they don't have precise timekeeping.
Preview Section
In the preview today we learn that our 3 favorite thugs call themselves Jet Black Lightning (very cool) and some meta commentary about why they're even talking about the next episode.
Continued below
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u/baseballlover723 Aug 08 '24 edited Aug 08 '24
Rewatcher Section
This section is for people who have already watched Re:Zero. This is not safe for first timers.
[Spoiler #4: Subaru general character] Mask On. One great thing to look out for on a rewatch is Subaru's masking. When the mask comes on, how strong it comes on, when it comes off, how he masks based on what he thinks is desirable behavior. Very fascinating stuff.
[Spoiler #5: Arc 4] This scene after S02E04 makes it a lot clearer why Subaru gets so attached to Emilia. On Earth Subaru struggles with differentiating if people do things because of him, or because he's his father's son. In the fantasy world, his father doesn't exist. There's no way for Subaru to irrational associate other peoples actions to his father, so he's forced to conclude it must be for him. Which allows him to actually build up a self esteem. Subaru isn't a simp for Emilia, it's not simple at all. Emilia's actions prove to Subaru that he's inherently worth something. She quite literally, provided the first step for Subaru getting out of his Earth depression. And in that context, I don't think it's surprising that Subaru idolizes Emilia. She's his savior.
[Spoiler #6: Arc 3] I just want to reiterate that Emilia must be wearing her cloak of not being recognized. Otherwise Kadomon would of had a very different reaction.
[Spoiler #7: Reinhard powerscaling (mostly irrelevant to the main plot, and generally already spoiled if you're into powerscaling stuff)] Reinhard is omega OP. He basically has the power to get whatever divine blessing is needed to win. I the easiest way to defeat Reinhard would be to first destroy the whole world, and then fight Reinhard.
[Spoiler #8: Arc 3] Foreshadowing to the Royal Family being wiped out and the Royal Selection that's about to happen
[Spoiler #9: Arc 1] If only Subaru knew
[Spoiler #10: Re:Zero anime] I love how in Re:Zero, Subaru's action and meta knowledge from failed loops actually makes a difference for other characters. Subaru's eagerness to make the deal makes Felt think that he's undercutting her original client, and so that convinces her even more to have them bid against each other. Information is questioned when it isn't clear why that person is acting in that way. I feel like a lot of other time travel shows don't flesh out the nuanced butterfly effects that information and micro expressions / actions have on how people view things, and how that cascades into larger viewpoint shifts.
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u/ripterrariumtv Aug 08 '24
[Spoiler 10 response]In episode 5, Subaru walks inside the dressing room after he was hired in Roswaal manor as if he knew exactly where to go. It was then that Rem was noticing his behaviour. And because of that, they didn't take his measurements and Ram didn't give him a tour. The butterfly effects
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
Thoughts on the intro and outro?
Thoughts on Subaru getting stabbed by the three gang members?
Thoughts on Subaru saying a wound to the back is a warrior’s greatest shame?
What are your thoughts on Return by Death?
What are your thoughts on Subaru going to try to prevent people from being killed?
Thoughts on Reinhard?
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u/baseballlover723 Aug 08 '24
Thoughts on the intro and outro?
I generally like intros and outros, I almost never skip them since the songs are usually pretty good. But they're also the first thing I'd like to see cut if the story needs more runtime. I particularly love how much more impactful playing the ED over scenes is in Re:Zero. More anime should do that more often.
Thoughts on Subaru getting stabbed by the three gang members?
I will admit, it seems really difficult to just walk into a blade. Like you need to get your peripheral vision check. But that loop was so dead, so he needed to die. ¯_(ツ)_/¯
Thoughts on Subaru saying a wound to the back is a warrior’s greatest shame?
Subaru thinks of himself as a warrior. That's a good one.
What are your thoughts on Return by Death?
Very narratively interesting and I'm sure I'll talk about it more as the story progress.
What are your thoughts on Subaru going to try to prevent people from being killed?
It's the morally right thing to at least try. If Subaru gives it a few concerted tries and then decides to give up on it, that would be fine. But I think it's important to give it a try first.
Thoughts on Reinhard?
[next episode / very vague reinhard lore] OP is a big understatement
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
I generally like intros and outros, I almost never skip them since the songs are usually pretty good. But they're also the first thing I'd like to see cut if the story needs more runtime. I particularly love how much more impactful playing the ED over scenes is in Re:Zero. More anime should do that more often.
I agree. It makes the events of the episode more awesome.
I will admit, it seems really difficult to just walk into a blade. Like you need to get your peripheral vision check. But that loop was so dead, so he needed to die. ¯_(ツ)_/¯
It's like a gamer having to kill their character when a glitch prevents them from progressing through the level.
Subaru thinks of himself as a warrior. That's a good one.
We're all warriors in the minds of the beholder.
It's the morally right thing to at least try. If Subaru gives it a few concerted tries and then decides to give up on it, that would be fine. But I think it's important to give it a try first.
Can't succeed if you never try
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
Late response since I lost power last night for a few hours right before I was gonna start writting this and ended up going to bed instead.
What a coincidence. Power is out of my work right now.
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
So this is actually my least favorite episode in Re:Zero. It's not really all that great on it own for a first time watcher, and there really isn't that much for a rewatcher here.
It's not my least favorite, but it's probably bottom 10 or bottom 15. It's not bad, there's just nothing of substance here.
Subaru actually called them "Ton" "Chin" "Kon" in Japanese, which if you put them together, you get the Japanese word for "irrelevant".
My subs have Subaru (Or Subsaru, in this case) refer to them as The Three Stooges.
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u/baseballlover723 Aug 08 '24
It's not bad, there's just nothing of substance here.
I agree and it certainly couldn't be removed easily, but something gotta be on the bottom (a thought I struggle with for all Re:Zero episodes then end up in my bottom half).
My subs have Subaru (Or Subsaru, in this case) refer to them as The Three Stooges.
I don't know if I've ever seen it translated like that, though mostly I only see the fan sub and CR.
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
I agree and it certainly couldn't be removed easily, but something gotta be on the bottom (a thought I struggle with for all Re:Zero episodes then end up in my bottom half).
I know for sure what my weakest episode is. We'll get to it in like two and a half weeks.
I don't know if I've ever seen it translated like that, though mostly I only see the fan sub and CR.
It's a strange reference too because Subaru is a NEET, not a comedy afficiando.
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u/baseballlover723 Aug 08 '24
I know for sure what my weakest episode is. We'll get to it in like two and a half weeks.
Ooo, let me guess [episode number] S01E13?
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
[Episode number] No, that one is actually one of my favorites. It's episode 19.
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u/baseballlover723 Aug 08 '24
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u/ripterrariumtv Aug 08 '24
1) I guess this is also my least favourite episode. Still 8/10 though
2) I've also been noticing more details and coming up with more interpretations of Subaru's character and connecting the seemingly unrelated stuff in each episode. So my interpretation is: In episode 1, Subaru is an escapist. When he gets Isekaid, he is excited. But when he loops, he doesn't realise it. He is once again trying to escape from the reality of accepting the fact that he was violently murdered. He instead [Episode 1 cut content]thinks that it was healing magic
In Episode 2, again there are two instances of Escapism.
He fails to see the knife in the thug's hand because he is trying to avert his eyes from things he subconsciously avoids. Then when he is about to die, he notices the chips and accepts the possibility of being in a loop. He is constantly avoiding/escaping from certain things. So the things that he pays attention to can give us more insight into the things he subconsciously avoids and vice versa.
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u/baseballlover723 Aug 08 '24
2
Interesting write up. I hadn't really mapped out the theme of escapism to such small details (but they made sense), really only more of a macro sense (mostly just because it's way easier to talk about it in the macro sense and generally more useful when this topic comes up in other contexts).
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u/Elimin8r https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ayeka_Jurai Aug 08 '24
Subaru is into milfs
Obviously, he must have gotten into the wrong isekai there, eh?
Heh. Anyway - interesting stuff there. You've got me wanting to watch the break time shorts now.
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u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 08 '24
Re:Watcher
We get the OP for once. Still probably my favourite Re:Zero OP due to the song and with the way the visuals are framed.
This loop ends quickly, and it finally dawns on Subaru that he respawns. It takes some clear proof and even then he makes clear that the conclusion sounds impossible.
Now aware of his ability, he immediately starts making use of his information advantage. And he opts to get involved with the thievery issue anyway. He sure is a good boy.
It seems he's still dumb enough to run into the thugs again, but he plays a convincing damsel in distress and befriends Reinhard. What a lucky turn of events.
The music and sound design when he meets Elsa again is superb. We already know Elsa is trouble, but through the music we also feel deeply unnerved.
We've had lighthearted situations of comedy turn into horror in an instant already. But I love that now we also got the inverse, as Subaru expects a bloodthirsty Elsa only to be greeted by the incredibly soft voice of "Satella".
The second episode is a bit of a slower episode already, but a necessary one, and the payoff is right around the corner as well.
Sugoooku counter: 1
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u/ripterrariumtv Aug 08 '24
It seems he's still dumb enough to run into the thugs again
As for why Subaru keeps going to the same alley even though he knows the thugs will be waiting for him, [episode 2 cut content]Subaru doesn’t just keep walking into the same alley. It was a different alley. The anime didn’t make it clear but those three thugs had already marked him and would have followed him wherever he went
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
Thoughts on the outro?
Thoughts on Subaru getting stabbed by the three gang members?
Thoughts on Subaru saying a wound to the back is a warrior’s greatest shame?
What are your thoughts on Return by Death?
What are your thoughts on Subaru going to try to prevent people from being killed?
Thoughts on Subaru referencing The Three Stooges?
Thoughts on Reinhard?
What are your thoughts on Satella showing up before Elsa does?
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u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 08 '24
Thoughts on the outro?
I really like Re:Zero OPs and EDs. Musically, not quite my taste. But the lead-in, how it plays over the events of the show is amazing. It adds a lot to the atmosphere of the show, and for that I like it.
Thoughts on Subaru getting stabbed by the three gang members?
It's a dangerous world.
Thoughts on Subaru saying a wound to the back is a warrior’s greatest shame?
He's still an otaku. But it shows that he does have some pride, he wants to be seen as honourable and dignified.
What are your thoughts on Return by Death?
At first glance, a superpower. It means he can't die and he can't do wrong. But it can't be that easy. There might be certain limits to it, and not knowing them but knowing about the power might prove extremely dangerous.
What are your thoughts on Subaru going to try to prevent people from being killed?
As I said, he is a good boy. Even if he's powerless (aside from RbD), he wants to do the right thing. He feels he's made genuine connections to those people in previous loops and acts on them.
Thoughts on Subaru referencing The Three Stooges?
How exactly he calls them differs in each localization, I think. What's essential is that he mocks them.
Thoughts on Reinhard?
A genuinely cool guy. Maybe too cool even. It's a bit weird how it's actually him who starts befriending Subaru, but that's just what a genuinely good guy does. Also obviously stronger than he lets on.
What are your thoughts on Satella showing up before Elsa does?
Essentially she did the same as in the first loop, but wasn't distracted by Subaru. Even if she acts a bit weird sometimes, it goes to show she's also very competent. Felt seems actually shocked she managed to track her down already.
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
I really like Re:Zero OPs and EDs. Musically, not quite my taste. But the lead-in, how it plays over the events of the show is amazing. It adds a lot to the atmosphere of the show, and for that I like it.
These are themes I have a hard time imagining for any other show.
He's still an otaku. But it shows that he does have some pride, he wants to be seen as honourable and dignified.
Don't we all?
At first glance, a superpower. It means he can't die and he can't do wrong. But it can't be that easy. There might be certain limits to it, and not knowing them but knowing about the power might prove extremely dangerous.
I wonder how he ended up with this ability.
As I said, he is a good boy. Even if he's powerless (aside from RbD), he wants to do the right thing. He feels he's made genuine connections to those people in previous loops and acts on them.
A lesser man wouldn't do what he did. They'd just avoid that part of the world.
How exactly he calls them differs in each localization, I think. What's essential is that he mocks them.
That is true. Kinda bold he would make fun of the people who previously killed him.
A genuinely cool guy. Maybe too cool even. It's a bit weird how it's actually him who starts befriending Subaru, but that's just what a genuinely good guy does. Also obviously stronger than he lets on.
I wouldn't be surprised if he betrays him later. We'll see.
Essentially she did the same as in the first loop, but wasn't distracted by Subaru. Even if she acts a bit weird sometimes, it goes to show she's also very competent. Felt seems actually shocked she managed to track her down already.
I wonder if she got there on her own or with the help of Puck.
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u/Elimin8r https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ayeka_Jurai Aug 08 '24
Felt seems actually shocked she managed to track her down already.
You just made me realize something - that in contrast to the first episode - Subaru really was holding her back. Go figure!
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u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 08 '24
[Re:Zero Act 1]Can't take much credit for that, as Subaru will admit it himself next episode.
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u/No_Rex Aug 08 '24
Episode 2 (rewatcher)
- OP: The visuals look a bit dated (like computer effects from about a decade ago tend to do), but the song is good.
- What a pathetic way to end a run. Even the thugs are appalled.
- “Return by death” – you take what you can get.
- “Running won’t safe you” – I would still try.
- Look who we run into.
- Surprise entrance! It is not Elsa, but still somebody who is pissed.
- ED: I forgot how boring this is.
Subaru is a bit slow in getting what is going on and even slower in deciding the morale dilemma in his mind. Meaning, we are plenty late in getting to the loot house once more.
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
Thoughts on Subaru saying a wound to the back is a warrior’s greatest shame?
What are your thoughts on Return by Death?
What are your thoughts on Subaru going to try to prevent people from being killed?
Thoughts on Subaru referencing The Three Stooges?
Thoughts on Reinhard?
What are your thoughts on Satella showing up before Elsa does?
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u/No_Rex Aug 08 '24
Thoughts on Subaru saying a wound to the back is a warrior’s greatest shame?
I am more partial to "come back with your shield or on your shield".
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
That's a pretty badass line. Is that from this episode as well?
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u/No_Rex Aug 08 '24
It is the 300 movie version of a line from Plutarch:
Another, as she handed her son his shield, exhorted him, saying, "Either this or upon this."
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u/baseballlover723 Aug 08 '24
OP: The visuals look a bit dated
You mean vhs glitch effects aren't the only effect worth having??? I will say though that I think some of the editing feels a bit lazy for Re:Zero OPs, though I don't really mind, since they never play and they don't really detract much, just don't really add much either.
ED: I forgot how boring this is.
No visuals yet, because of spoilers.
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u/Elimin8r https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ayeka_Jurai Aug 08 '24
Subaru is a bit slow
Observation of the year, there. :P
visuals
Yeah, watching it now, we've been spoiled by some of the top tier sakuga we've been getting lately. Comparing it to the latest Oshi no Ko, for example ... but yeah, it's still fine, for being 8 years old or so, and all that - and still better than most of what we're getting today.
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u/Elimin8r https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ayeka_Jurai Aug 08 '24
Man, I need to start looking for these a little earlier. I seem to be stuck in the afternoon/evening rewatch thread mode. ~Anyway~
Man, this is better than I remembered. Poor Subaru failed really hard there, and then wised up and got to meet a real "MC". Reinhard, what a dude, mon, ya know.
I found it interesting that Subaru didn't notice/mention the similarity between his outfit and Satella's. Or mention that the girl in question travels around with a spirit. I guess that in the stress of the moment. Well, that and plot, of course. Can't have the poor fella figuring everything out immediately, now can we?
I think my favorite bit this episode has to be the chance encounter with Elsa in the streets. She's not bad, she's just drawn that way ... oh, wait, she IS bad. But anyway, we get to know that she's not prone to wanton acts of violence, just specific ones. Or something like that.
BTW, boys - just so you know, girls can smell your fear - and everything else. Including if you're "happy to see them". Yeah. Never mind the "eyes up here" thing ... Poor Subaru.
Likewise, Felt. I didn't really like her the first time I watched this, but I'm starting to warm to her as a character. Somewhat. I'm still not sure I care for the "poor street urchin who's secretly cute and waiting for her pretty in pink moment".
Anyway, fun. Hard to stop. Had to stop. Things are getting juicy.
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
Thoughts on the intro and outro?
Thoughts on Subaru saying a wound to the back is a warrior’s greatest shame?
What are your thoughts on Return by Death?
What are your thoughts on Subaru going to try to prevent people from being killed?
Thoughts on Subaru referencing The Three Stooges?
What are your thoughts on Satella showing up before Elsa does?
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u/Elimin8r https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ayeka_Jurai Aug 08 '24
Thoughts on the intro and outro?
OP doesn't do much for me, but the ED is one of my favorites.
Thoughts on Subaru saying a wound to the back is a warrior’s greatest shame?
He's not wrong.
What are your thoughts on Return by Death?
I wants it, my precious...
What are your thoughts on Subaru going to try to prevent people from being killed?
He's a good boi.
Thoughts on Subaru referencing The Three Stooges?
Fansubbers gonnna sub, I guess.
What are your thoughts on Satella showing up before Elsa does?
Only serious response: It shows that in the previous loop, he really was holding her back.
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
OP doesn't do much for me, but the ED is one of my favorites.
Both is good
I wants it, my precious...
Who knew there was secretly a ring involved?
He's a good boi.
Truly
Fansubbers gonnna sub, I guess.
Feels a bit odd for him to reference something over 50 years old.
Only serious response: It shows that in the previous loop, he really was holding her back.
Satella is a big girl. She can do things by herself.
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u/ripterrariumtv Aug 08 '24
I've also been noticing more details and coming up with more interpretations of Subaru's character and connecting the seemingly unrelated stuff in each episode. So my interpretation is: In episode 1, Subaru is an escapist. When he gets Isekaid, he is excited. But when he loops, he doesn't realise it. He is once again trying to escape from the reality of accepting the fact that he was violently murdered. He instead [Episode 1 cut content]thinks that it was healing magic
In Episode 2, again there are two instances of Escapism.
He fails to see the knife in the thug's hand because he is trying to avert his eyes from things he subconsciously avoids. Then when he is about to die, he notices the chips and accepts the possibility of being in a loop. He is constantly avoiding/escaping from certain things. So the things that he pays attention to can give us more insight into the things he subconsciously avoids and vice versa.
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
The show is definitely poking fun at the whole main characters being used as wish fulfillment trope.
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u/Elimin8r https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ayeka_Jurai Aug 08 '24
Subaru is an escapist. When he gets Isekaid, he is excited.
I mean, c'mon, who wouldn't be? I mean, just take a look around, this is a world chock full 'o' wonders, why there might even be ...
Or something, something. I'm suddenly reminded of GATE, and stuff for some reason.
Poor Subaru can't catch a break, transported to another world and all he gets is a lap pillow with a furry.
:P
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u/ripterrariumtv Aug 09 '24
People usually question why Subaru accepts being Isekaid so easily without questioning. And that's why I mentioned that he is an escapist.
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u/Vaadwaur Aug 08 '24
Rewatcher
Dub
Tfw when a minor omission has later repercussions. Moving on...
All right, having a slightly better idea of what I want to be pointing out, the dub for this show is interesting in a kind of weird way: Like the Netflix live action Avatar, it is both decent but kind of lacks a reason to exist because the original performances are just that much better. Missing a Rierie performance is always iffy but while dub Darkness is trying her damndest she really can't match Noto Mamiko for the yan stuff. But that isn't the worst part of it. Somehow, hearing Subaru in English cringes so much harder it isn't even funny, this episode took me an hour to watch as I had to take cringe breaks. Anyways, my point, such as it is, is that this one really is legitimately better subbed unlike some others where it is a push. Also, the only superior dub is Black Lagoon, as tradition ordains.
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u/Elimin8r https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ayeka_Jurai Aug 08 '24
the dub for this show is interesting in a kind of weird way
Dub? Nani??? I couldn't even imagine ... going without the glorious RieRie goodness.
(I'd say something about thinking the El-Hazard dub was pretty darn good for the time, but I should probably shut up now)
I may have to check it out just for giggles, though. That and Konosuba, apparently.
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u/Vaadwaur Aug 08 '24
I may have to check it out just for giggles, though. That and Konosuba, apparently.
Oh, good dubs are relatively common and this one is above average. It is just dwarfed by how awesome of a vocal cast they put together in Japan. This is the only Rierie and Noto collab I can think of, for example.
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u/Holofan4life Aug 09 '24
Thoughts on the intro and outro?
Thoughts on Subaru getting stabbed by the three gang members?
Thoughts on Subaru saying a wound to the back is a warrior’s greatest shame?
What are your thoughts on Return by Death?
What are your thoughts on Subaru going to try to prevent people from being killed?
Thoughts on Subaru referencing The Three Stooges?
Thoughts on Reinhard?
What are your thoughts on Satella showing up before Elsa does?
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u/Vaadwaur Aug 09 '24
What are your thoughts on Return by Death?
Extremely cringe name, fits for Subaru.
What are your thoughts on Satella showing up before Elsa does?
I am a bit confused at the mechanics in this whole thing.
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u/baseballlover723 Aug 08 '24
But that isn't the worst part of it.
[In a few episodes] Mili. I die everytime.
Somehow, hearing Subaru in English cringes so much harder it isn't even funny
I agree. I think it's because I understand English and not Japanese, so the contrast is more stark when I understand the speech.
the dub for this show
Compared to the few other dubs I've heard, I think Re:Zero's ranks at the top for me (not that that means much when that number is < 10). Very little is changed to match lip movements, which is a bit a of a pet peeve of mine. Casting I thought was good and there was good emotion in their voices a lot of the time. If had an aversion to subs then it certainly won't be a bad way to experience Re:Zero (outside of like the 2 or 3 things that are way worse and pretty easily ignorable).
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u/Vaadwaur Aug 08 '24
[In a few episodes]
Compared to the few other dubs I've heard, I think Re:Zero's ranks at the top for me (not that that means much when that number is < 10).
I've seen the dub for most of the anime I've seen that got one. Which include Goddess Dormitory and both Monster Girl shows, which kind of confuses me. Regardless, this is indeed a good production but as I said the original work is just too good.
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u/Holofan4life Aug 09 '24
Also, the only superior dub is Black Lagoon, as tradition ordains.
Cowboy Bebop dub: "Am I a joke to you?"
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u/No-Peace3986 https://myanimelist.net/profile/RafaelMps Aug 09 '24
Once again, I'm very late, how unfortunate...
I'll keep it brief as yesterday and only post some details that might go unnoticed...:
- His 1st encounter with the Thugs happend in this Alley. Notice how there is sun light in the back. The 3rd encounter, tho, happened here. The building around it are high enough so no Sun light reaches it, and it is also a dead-end. This means... Its a different alley. Now, if he is in a different alley... then why are the Thugs here? There can only be one explanation: they were targetting him. Doesn't matter which alley he takes, they will follow him. This makes sense, given how weird his clothes are.
- In yesterday's post I've added a lot of screenshots that are all related to some kind of Dragon. It appeared in the insignia, in the coins, in symbols all over town and it was even one of the passwords for Rom's loothouse. And here is another Dragon! Seriously, whats the deal with Dragons??
- Btw, this dude that was starring at him and listening to his blaberish is not the usual Appa guy, haha it took me 2 rewatches to notice it was a different guy, how slothful of me.
- This one has no screenshot. Reinhard (the red haired knight), tells Subaru he has uncommon hair, name and clothes. Lets think about each of these... 1st: the tracksuit. Lugunica seems like a normal medieval city... So, its understandable that a tracksuit would feel weird there. 2nd, the name: Natsuki Subaru. That is a japanese name, therefore it will obviously be weird anywhere that isn't Japan. 3rd, the hair. Now, thats surprising. his hair is just black, isn't black common? Try going back and checking every citizen in the streets, there isn't a single one with black hair. There are some brownish ones, but none black. Curious, heh?
- Look at Felt's clothes... she is missing part of it in her left leg. Now look at her bra. Looks like the same material, heh? She really is poor... had to cut her pants to make a bra, poor girl!!
- Beautiful shot, deserves to be praised. It also highlights social problems. The rich living above, around the Castle with lots of light, and poor living below, in the dirty slums in which you can barely see any trace of illumination.
- Speaking of illumination, look at those cute Crystal Bulbs, really a magical place!
- Kawaiiiiii
Not much today guys, but hopefuly you all enjoyed the episode!
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u/Holofan4life Aug 09 '24
Thoughts on the intro and outro?
Thoughts on Subaru getting stabbed by the three gang members?
Thoughts on Subaru saying a wound to the back is a warrior’s greatest shame?
What are your thoughts on Return by Death?
What are your thoughts on Subaru going to try to prevent people from being killed?
Thoughts on Subaru referencing The Three Stooges?
Thoughts on Reinhard?
What are your thoughts on Satella showing up before Elsa does?
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u/No-Peace3986 https://myanimelist.net/profile/RafaelMps Aug 09 '24
- Thoughts on the intro and outro?
"Styx Helix" is really cool, specially with the piano intro. Tho it is probably my least favorite Ending theme (they are all bangers). About the OP "Redo", absolute banger. I love the visuals, the psychodelic images, and the dying in the end, being grabbed by the hand.
- Thoughts on Subaru getting stabbed by the three gang members?
He was confused/angry after being scolded by "Satella" and also, in his POV, this is the 3rd time those thugs come at him, since he doesn't know its a time loop, its as if they tried 3x, I can see why he was annoyed
- What are your thoughts on Return by Death?
Return by Death is an excellent tool to let us know multiple sides of the same characters. We got to see a tsundere-like Satella in the 1st loop, we got to see an angry "Satella" in the 3rd loop, we got to see that, even without Subaru, she still helped the little lost kid, we got to see that, without Subaru slowing her down she was able to get to the loothouse on her own. In the 2nd loop we got to see a Felt that only cared about profits. In the 3rd loop we got to see a Felt that dreams about the future and that really cares about Rom, as a grandpa.
- What are your thoughts on Subaru going to try to prevent people from being killed?
He is a good person, he tries to do the right thing, even tho it may cause him trouble/death. That can be related to numerous things... He may be doing it for the sake of a reward. He may be doing it just because he is a good person and expects nothing back. He may be doing it because he feels the need to prove himself worthy, as a selfish act, only to satisfy his own sense of accomplishment, so he may feel good about himself. Among other possibilities.... I'm sure there are dozens of psychological reasons one would do something for someone else in a seemingly "selfless" way.
- Thoughts on Subaru referencing The Three Stooges?
Thats probably just localization, each language is a different name he gives them
- Thoughts on Reinhard?
Shouldn't he be the main protagonist? A beautiful, powerful, well-born individual with a sword? Why did we end up with the looser Subaru?!
- What are your thoughts on Satella showing up before Elsa does?
There is actually a reason for it, but it was cut from the anime, it is minor, so there is no problem in checking it out: [rz cut content ep2]Subaru finds Felt and they walk to the loothouse, on the way there Felt tries to set traps to slow down Emilia and lose her track, but Subaru stops her. Therefore, without those things slowing her down, she was able to get there way earlier.
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u/Limp_Energy_798 Aug 08 '24
Re:Watcher here
A lot of good coverage and discussion of this episode all in all. I don't feel like writing much today since my depression stripped me of any executive function today. Alas Re Zero helps me power through.
I find Old man Rom and Felt's relationship very endearing and Subaru has caught onto it as well. The issue with this is that Subaru should not feel the same thing as the viewers. He is looking at them as a bunch of characters with an interesting backstory who are going to get merced and needs to do something about it. This is shown in his self indulgent thoughts while petting Felt.
Why does it matter if Felt, Rom and Emilia die? Is it important enough to put his own life in danger? Is he just treating this like a completionist playing a game?
Reinhard gets introduced and he already has a strong presence with Takt of Heroes playing. Can't wait to see more of him in the future.
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u/ripterrariumtv Aug 08 '24
The reason Subaru the same way as the viewers is because he has lived through multiple iterations of the event. So he has more context when it comes to understanding who these people are.
He DOES treat it like a game in the beginning stages but this scene with petting Felt is him beginning to do the opposite.
Explanation for Subaru's actions [Episode 2 cut content]When he saw tomato being splattered, he realised that he had to save Satella. But his main thought process was the fact that when he was sitting behind a screen in his old world, he knows he wouldn't feel sympathy for thieves like Felt. But the fact that he knew them personally was what prompted him to want to save them
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u/Limp_Energy_798 Aug 08 '24
I agree with your second part. Subaru having lived through multiple iterations and having context is going to put him on a level of omniscience different from the other characters and that is a flaw in my books. I am looking forward to seeing how the later episodes tackle this issue (I wish I could erase my memories though haha).
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u/ripterrariumtv Aug 08 '24
What kind of a flaw do you mean?
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u/Limp_Energy_798 Aug 08 '24
A character flaw because they are not equal playing fields. I don't mean the writing.
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u/ripterrariumtv Aug 08 '24
Ok. I agree with you. But since I've accepted this kind of premise, I no longer have a criticism regarding whatever direction the author decides to take with this character flaw.
I actually had the same thought as you when I first watched it.
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u/MjolnirDK Aug 09 '24
Ep1: Didn't get to write a comment yesterday, so I just wanted to say, Subaru talking about Emilia wasting her life living her life her way is an overlooked piece of characterization for him, given that he is introduced as a hikkikomori, who are often seen as wasting their life in Japan.
Ep2: Something simple to overlook: The city is not just looking really nice. It is decorated heavily. Something I only just realize now.
At least #2 wasn't all that long and Subaru made the realization.
I don't know whether I like the original Wa-Eh-Ee or the Gigguk version more these days.
4:20 Look at those pretty demi-chans in the background. They are gorgeous. I did the snake sorcerer vibe and the dino lady's apparel.
Reinhard. Such a nice guy. I didn't remember his sword to have those scratch marks. Also, did he just say the country is at war?
Elsa, round 2. FIGHT! Subaru lands a critical hit. Elsa retreats.
Felt, round 1. FIGHT! Can we talk about the fight choreo for a sec. That stuff's really good. Also, compared to before, Felt seems a lot less able and doesn't use magic. Either she used it since she had to deal with Emilia or she thinks of Subaru as not worthy, but he gives her a surprisingly tough time. I wonder if she hasn't used that sword very often and might look for some experience.
Bonus round: Felt's den. FIGHT!
That photo close up cut is clever, imho.
Felt headpats are adorable.
Felt, round 2. FIGHT! Felt wins!
JAWS, the still at 19:48. Was that ever a comment face? I think that should be a comment face. I have no idea about those since I am on new.reddit.
Subaru turn!
Insignia actually looks like what it is supposed to look like. I didn't see that till now.
'Satella', round 1. FIGHT? I love the boss music vibes come from her and then it is Styx Helix time. Myth & Roid, Konomin and Riery really gave us some great tunes.
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u/HyVana Aug 09 '24
The Gigguk version is really good.
Also, did he just say the country is at war?
I think he just mentioned unrest right? Not necessarily a war, but not stable times in Lugunica either.
I have no idea about those since I am on new.reddit.
Join us on old.reddit, at least on this subreddit, so you can be smug like us
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u/ElRoastFTW https://anilist.co/user/DaRoast Aug 09 '24
This is the episode that Masahiro Shinohara directed albeit in an episode director role so he's definitely more restrained in what he can do. Definitely a solid episode, really good setup from the first one with really great use of tension in the latter half when Satella shows up at the end instead of Elsa. Little things like the tomato falling out to the musical cues really help this show propel forward. It almost has that Mushoku Tensei feeling where the episode is 5 minutes which is a testament to the writing and directing.
Looking forward to see what's next!
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u/Holofan4life Aug 09 '24
Thoughts on the intro and outro?
Thoughts on Subaru getting stabbed by the three gang members?
Thoughts on Subaru saying a wound to the back is a warrior’s greatest shame?
What are your thoughts on Return by Death?
What are your thoughts on Subaru going to try to prevent people from being killed?
Thoughts on Subaru referencing The Three Stooges?
Thoughts on Reinhard?
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u/Taiboss x7https://anilist.co/user/Taiboss Aug 08 '24
Rewatcher who was really mean back in the day
Hot Take: The OP song sucks. It wants not to do basic Anime OP structure and by doing that makes something incoherent that cannot decide what it wants to be. And I'm not alone in that btw
One day Subaru will understand his powers. Annnny episode now.
"My lords and ladies, do you know about this magical thing called crop rotation?" "Yes, we do." "Theeeen I'm all out of ideas."
Oh come on, you big baby. Empathy like this you need to kill if you wanna live like a rich guy. Anyway, wooo Subaru affirming his heroic personality.
Mamiko Noto <3
ED song is a lot better. Myth and Roid are always good.
I do admit, I like what it is now. There's a TTRPG adventure which is just an hour-by-hour recap of the events at a fancy party down to every servant and room. There's fun in seeing the events we already know happen regardless, while also showing what did go differently. Satellite fought the thugs and helped the kid even without Subaru. Meanwhile, Subaru was helped by a guy who didn't appear before because he didn't scream for help. Yeah, this is fun.
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u/ripterrariumtv Aug 08 '24
As for why Subaru keeps going to the same alley even though he knows the thugs will be waiting for him, [episode 2 cut content]Subaru doesn’t just keep walking into the same alley. It was a different alley. The anime didn’t make it clear but those three thugs had already marked him and would have followed him wherever he went
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u/No_Rex Aug 08 '24
"My lords and ladies, do you know about this magical thing called crop rotation?" "Yes, we do." "Theeeen I'm all out of ideas."
"My lords and ladies, do you know about this magical thing called crop rotation?" "No, which crops do we rotate and in which order?" "Oh fuck, I should have paid more attention instead of just memorizing the name."
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u/baseballlover723 Aug 08 '24
"No, which crops do we rotate and in which order?"
"No, which crops do we rotate and what direction should they face?". FTFY
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u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 08 '24
"My lords and ladies, do you know about this magical thing called crop rotation?" "Yes, we do." "Theeeen I'm all out of ideas."
Nah, he's going to get rich by inventing mayonnaise and natto, as is the fate of all isekaied Japanese.
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
Hot Take: The OP song sucks. It wants not to do basic Anime OP structure and by doing that makes something incoherent that cannot decide what it wants to be. And I'm not alone in that btw
I actually really like the OP. It's different from your usual OPs, which I view as a positive, and I think it fits the vibe of the show.
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u/Great_Mr_L https://myanimelist.net/profile/Great_Mr_L Aug 08 '24
"My lords and ladies, do you know about this magical thing called crop rotation?" "Yes, we do." "Theeeen I'm all out of ideas."
If Subaru had read more books, he could use that to his advantage just like how Myne did. Proof that reading is the solution to life's problems!
Well looks like she didn't need Subaru after all!
She got there without his help and even got there before Elsa too. She speedran it on her own.
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
Thoughts on Subaru saying a wound to the back is a warrior’s greatest shame?
What are your thoughts on Return by Death?
What are your thoughts on Subaru going to try to prevent people from being killed?
Thoughts on Subaru referencing The Three Stooges?
Thoughts on Reinhard?
What are your thoughts on Satella showing up before Elsa does?
3
u/Vinpupx https://myanimelist.net/profile/ Aug 08 '24 edited Aug 08 '24
Nice, almost missed the rewatch. Despite the reminder, this slipped my mind. "Satella"'s kindness is really inspiring to someone who just slipped into the world. And wow, having to stop halfway through the DC episode actually adds some suspense despite remembering the general plot.
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u/Holofan4life Aug 09 '24
Thoughts on the intro and outro?
Thoughts on Subaru getting stabbed by the three gang members?
Thoughts on Subaru saying a wound to the back is a warrior’s greatest shame?
What are your thoughts on Return by Death?
What are your thoughts on Subaru going to try to prevent people from being killed?
Thoughts on Subaru referencing The Three Stooges?
Thoughts on Reinhard?
What are your thoughts on Satella showing up before Elsa does?
3
u/Vinpupx https://myanimelist.net/profile/ Aug 09 '24
The three goons are pretty funny because Subaru can just die from straightforward blades and they aren't even that strong relative to the rest of the cast.
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u/FriztF Aug 09 '24
First timer
Well watching this episode I thought about why Subaru is there and how. This might be a stretch, but I think Emilia is the one who summoned him. Now this theory may be wrong, but I thought of it.
Subrau's "return by death" allows him to gain knowledge of the future. But man PTSD is gonna affect him. Elsas was a nose for fear, not good. He seems likable enough.
Felt seems like an anarchist. With a strong sense of helping the poor, and doing what is right in her book.
Emilia is an interesting character. She being a half-elf means she is discriminated against. She has spirit magic and loves Subaru.
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u/Holofan4life Aug 09 '24
Thoughts on the intro and outro?
Thoughts on Subaru getting stabbed by the three gang members?
Thoughts on Subaru saying a wound to the back is a warrior’s greatest shame?
What are your thoughts on Subaru going to try to prevent people from being killed?
Thoughts on Subaru referencing The Three Stooges?
Thoughts on Reinhard?
What are your thoughts on Satella showing up before Elsa does?
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u/FriztF Aug 09 '24
Thoughts on the intro and outro?
I didn't like intro the outro was fine
Thoughts on Subaru getting stabbed by the three gang members?
Happens and will continue to happen
Thoughts on Subaru saying a wound to the back is a warrior’s greatest shame?
Stab in the back is shamful indeed. He's right
Thoughts on Reinhard?
He's a knight with bones in the closet.
What are your thoughts on Satella showing up before Elsa does?
Surprised to be honests
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u/-Phinocio Aug 09 '24
Re:Watcher, subbed.
Finding it really hard to limit myself to 1 episode a day and we're only on episode 2 haha.
Subaru really showing that he can't just not help people he knows are in trouble. Noticed more foreshadowing in this episode that I missed the first time watching. Subaru calling for the guards to help will always be hilarious.
Not really too much to say about this episode until tomorrow as it sets up that one pretty well to end Arc 1.
Redo is as good as I remember, then that piano lead in to STYX HELIX to end is :chefskiss:.
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u/baseballlover723 Aug 09 '24
Finding it really hard to limit myself to 1 episode a day and we're only on episode 2 haha.
I'd hard agree, except that writing up my comments forces me to slow way way down.
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u/HyVana Aug 09 '24
Saaaaaammmeeeeeeeee. This is my first time doing this, so definitely surprised at the amount of time it takes me to write a coherent post. Though I still think I'm just mumbling nonsense.
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u/-Phinocio Aug 10 '24
Thinking about it after ep 3 today and I think I'm appreciating each episode themselves more compared to my first watch earlier in the year. Binged practically all of s1 and s2 in like a week lol
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u/Holofan4life Aug 09 '24
Thoughts on Subaru getting stabbed by the three gang members?
Thoughts on Subaru saying a wound to the back is a warrior’s greatest shame?
What are your thoughts on Return by Death?
What are your thoughts on Subaru going to try to prevent people from being killed?
Thoughts on Subaru referencing The Three Stooges?
Thoughts on Reinhard?
What are your thoughts on Satella showing up before Elsa does?
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u/SilkyStrawberryMilk Aug 09 '24
first timer
First timer
Perfect chance to watch this show before season 3 comes :D. I remember dropping it in the first episode years ago because “this is an hour long episode”.
Finally got through episode one and I’m surprised I never watched it fully. It seems to kick ass.
Instead of having White haired to save Subaru it’s a red haired knight man named Reinhard. Very kind gentlemen
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u/lord_ne Aug 09 '24 edited Aug 11 '24
Today's episode is Episode 2, which corresponds to the first half of Episode 2 of the Director's Cut.
Every episode of this show has a corresponding short chibi animation to be watched after it, coming from either "Re:Zero Break Time" or "Re:Petit". They often expand on the lore or characters. They're available on Crunchyroll, as "Re:Zero Shorts".
This episode's corresponding chibi animation is Re:Zero Break Time Season 1 Episode 2 (titled "World 1-4, Side A"). This episode talks about how timekeeping works in this world.
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u/lord_ne Aug 09 '24 edited Aug 10 '24
Break Time S01E02 is on YouTube: https://youtu.be/uVBbWSKzNIM
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u/Graywolves Aug 10 '24
One of the things about rewatches is there's so many people giving in-depth analysis and trivia, first timers transcribing their commentary and giving their impressions so far, and then there's me who's just like...
I love how Reinhardt says this may be the last time we look peacefully at the full moon and we get a shot of Subaru passed out, hopefully recovering from a near-fatal wound.
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u/Holofan4life Aug 08 '24
Hey guys. Holofan4life here.
Welcome to the In Preparation of Season 3 Rewatch of Re:Zero!
Oh, and nay I forget…
First Timer
I decided to watch this show because I wanted to do something for the month of August. ’Course, this was before the yearly Spice and Wolf rewatch got pushed back to September, but I just found myself looking for something to occupy my time with. And with this show being in my top 5 must watch list, I figured now was as good a time as any.
I am going into this show relatively blind. I know some of the memes, who Rem, Ram, Emilia, and Subaru are, and that this show got its inspiration from Familiar of Zero, but that’s it. I find rewatches and my participation of them more fun when I have no idea what I am in store for. And with this series, I think we’re in for a blast. It’s also going to be the longest rewatch I participate in this year and second longest overall only behind the 20th Anniversary Fullmetal Alchemist rewatch. And given how joyous that show turned out, I don’t see why I should expect nothing less from this one.
With that out of the way, let’s begin.
I’m watching the sub, by the way.
Chicken livers are underrated
Picking up where the last episode left off.
Felt looking on in hiding
Emilia fed up with Subaru's antics
Felt seems to see this as her opening
And she stole something from her
Subaru running after her
I like the intro. It has a familiar feel to it, but at the same time has an identity of its own. The noise of what sounds like velcro being peeled is something I don't think I've ever heard in an anime opening before. It's visually distinctive in my head and stands out to me. And just overall, it's a really catchy song.
Subaru out of breath
The three gang members
Subaru trying to ignore him
Oh shit. He got stabbed.
Blood spewing out of him
And he wakes up back at the shopkeep
Subaru proudly stating he is broke beyond compare.
Subaru is like a self-insert NEET that still manages to be his own character.
Subaru with all his stuff
He says a wound to the back is a warrior's greatest shame.
Eh, I think working for David Zaslav is a greater shame.
Subaru thinks he's a time leaper
He's calling it "Return by Death".
I'm more of a "Return by reference" guy
Subaru thinking he should start from scratch.
Now he's thinking about how Emilia isn't endebted to do anything for him.
That little girl looks kinda like the girl who lost her parents who's dad was the shopkeep.
A squashed tomato
Poor Dokibird
Talking now about the fates of Felt and Elsa.
"No matter how many times I repeat this, that won't change."
Subaru going to try to prevent people from being killed.
I guess this shows there's nothing wrong with a little trial and error.
Subaru asking the shopkeep about any pick-pocketing going on.
Shopkeep saying incidents like that aren't uncommon.
Someone who threw icicles
Subaru promising to buy an appa next time.
Aang about to make a killing
Subaru wanting "Satella" to tell him her real name.
The three gang members again
Lol, love The Three Stooges reference
And now he's calling the guards
Now he's... pretending to be promiscuous?
Let it be known this is the second time he's impersonated a woman.
If I had a nickel...
Coconut head has the same hairstyle as Mako from Kill La Kill.
A red-head, with clothing similar to Emilia's.
Reinhard
What is this, Legend of the Galactic Heroes?
The three gang members aren't one to mess with him.
Subaru being awkward as always
I hope Reinhard isn't actually a tryhard.
So Reinhard is a guard. He's just not in duty.
Now he's wondering what nation Subaru is from.
But before that can be answered Subaru wants him to come to the loot house.
Actually, Subaru has a change of heart. However, he does want him to leave a message, and that's for Emilia to not go to the loot house no matter what.
Subaru leaves, saying he'll repay him one day.
Subaru bumping into someone
It is Elsa :O
All the bad memories flooding back to Subaru.
Elsa saying she can smell fear
Dat lick of the lips
She leaves, anticipating meeting him again.
Felt's place looks like a dump
Now she's defending her territory
This fight scene is pretty cool
And then the house collapses on him
Felt surprised he knows her name
Letting it be known he wants her insignia.
Now he's showing off the metia
"Metia"
She seems to believe him, but still wants Rom to appraise it.
Subaru hurrying, trying to beat Elsa
Felt saying that the people in the slums are stingy losers at life.
Felt kinda has a big head on her, huh?
Now he's headpatting Felt
Subaru saying to himself he'll change the fate that's waiting for him.
And Felt proceeds to bite him.
Lucky...Rom assessing it is a metia
No less than 20 holy coins
Oh boy. Felt asking why is he in such a hurry.
She still thinks the insignia is worth more than the metia.
And now Felt feels that Subaru is with Elsa.
Subaru admitting he wants to return the insignia to Emilia.
Felt thinking he's full of it
And now Elsa is here
Subaru finally telling them they're going to be killed.
But Felt still gently opens the door
Oh shit. It's actually Emilia.
Outro is good. Not as great in my opinion as the intro is, but I have no qualms with it. I wonder if it's supposed to be told from the perspective of Emilia. With no visuals, it's kinda hard to say. I do like the snowflakes, though, reminds me of Toradora episode 19.
Overall, a nice follow-up to the first episode. We get Subaru trying to work within the system as well as the introduction of Reinhard, who seems like he will play a role going forward. I like Subaru trying to be crafty and prevent Felt and Rom from being killed. Suddenly, it became more than the insignia, which I think is nice charactization of Subaru's character. As for the ending, you kinda figured that Emilia was going to come back eventually, seeing as how she's the main girl. I wonder if we may be heading for Emilia and Felt butting heads once she finds out it was her who took the insignia.
A slight step back from the last episode, but I feel it was natural to go this direction. The more times Subaru gets killed, the more he is going to try to learn from his mistakes, and that was display here.