Bungo Stray Dogs Episode 53 Launches Fukuchi as an Unstoppable Force

Highlights

Episode 53 of Bungo Stray Dogs reveals Fukuchi as the true main villain, showcasing his formidable powers and adding depth to his character.

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The exploration of the partnership between Atsushi and Akutagawa, referred to as "Double Black," is taken to a deeper level as Dazai aims to shape them into the next evolutionary stage of his own partnership with Chuuya.

With Fukuchi's impressive ability, "Mirror Lion," he has the capability to enhance the strength of any weapon. Furthermore, his space-time sword adds a captivating layer of power and intimidation to his character. The animation in the fight scene is truly original and captivating.

Warning: The following article contains significant spoilers for episode 53 of Bungo Stray Dogs, titled "HERO VS. CRIMINAL," currently available for streaming on Crunchyroll.

Interestingly enough, Akio Otsuka, known for his iconic role as Snake in Metal Gear Solid, lends his voice to Fukuchi in Bungo Stray Dogs. Fukuchi can be seen as an even more sinister and powerful version of Big Boss, embodying pure evil. Both characters have attained great fame within their respective universes for their courageous actions and hard-won triumphs. However, hidden beneath their celebrated personas lies a much darker reality.

Last week, Fukuchi, the leader known as Kamui, unexpectedly revealed his true identity to Ranpo and Atsushi when they sought his assistance to halt the Decay of Angels. While Ranpo managed to escape, he urged Atsushi to do the same. However, the determined were-tiger remained, committed to defeating the very person responsible for the suffering endured by the Agency. Despite his initial apprehensions of fighting alone, a familiar face emerged.

The Next Generation of "Double Black"

Episode 53, titled "HERO VS. CRIMINAL," goes beyond being just a long-awaited battle. It serves as a revealing moment for Akutagawa, who had been on a significant break. Discovering that his absence was actually part of Dazai's master plan wasn't entirely surprising, considering the man's reputation. However, it was incredibly satisfying to see the true significance of Atsushi and Akutagawa's partnership being brought to light.

"Double Black" stands out as one of the standout episodes from Season 2, not only due to its remarkable storytelling but also because it sheds light on the profound bond between Dazai and Chuuya. Prior to this episode, their partnership was merely a topic of conversation, woven amidst their playful banter, physical altercations, and undeniable seductive energy. Over time, their captivating dynamic has become legendary within the underworld, with Atsushi and Akutagawa poised to carry the torch and become the next chapter in this captivating tale.

Dazai's stated intention of achieving this goal brings a significant amount of clarity, benefiting both the audience observing their interactions and Akutagawa himself, who continues to undergo subtle growth. He shows responsiveness to criticism when it becomes apparent that his actions go against Dazai's expectations, and he has remained true to his promise of refraining from causing harm to others. Although he has only recently returned, his reintegration feels seamless and his presence is strongly felt, almost as if he had never left.

Throughout the narrative, Akutagawa has consistently posed a moody and threatening figure to Atsushi and his companions. However, despite this, they function effectively as a team and, by harnessing their collective abilities, become nearly invincible. Akutagawa can be likened to Bakugo from My Hero Academia, except he is a villain, and the characters do not ignore his cantankerous nature. The mutual disdain between Atsushi and Akutagawa adds depth and intrigue to their partnership, making it all the more captivating.

However, the effectiveness of their combined powers diminishes when trust becomes an issue during intense battles, which is a core objective of this episode. Despite previous fortunate circumstances, where their mutual animosity towards a common adversary drove them forward, they have made progress but still face challenges in achieving harmony. This struggle becomes akin to drinking hemlock for the pair, as Fukuchi reveals his true role as the primary antagonist in this storyline.

The Mirror Lion

Fukuchi possesses the ability "Mirror Lion," which has the incredible power to amplify any weapon's strength by one-hundred times. The name of this ability is taken from the renowned kabuki play by Gen'ichirou Fukuchi, called "Mirror Lion." The play depicts a fascinating story of a woman who becomes possessed by a lion spirit after being fully immersed in her practice of a lion dance for a festival.

While the primary objective of this episode was to provide clarity regarding Atsushi and Akutagawa's connection, the secondary goal was to establish Fukuchi Ouchi as their most formidable adversary thus far. This is not solely due to his exceptional skills, but also the unique combination of powers he possesses. Animator Yuu Yoshiyama once again works their magic, delivering an exceptionally thrilling fight sequence that ranks among the most memorable in the series.

The animation may appear choppy at first, but it is actually a captivating and precise approach to action that successfully conveys the emotion of the artwork. It follows the Yoshinori Kanada school of animation, seamlessly alternating between rapid movements and slower pauses to emphasize emotion. This animation disregards conventional momentum, allowing the animator to create a distinct and impactful style.

Ultimately, the resulting fight scene is strikingly different from what Studio Bones typically produces, which is a positive aspect. It resembles a Trigger production with its exaggerated motions, such as Fukuchi's ability to hurl a rock with the swiftness of a bullet. In just a brief yet powerful exchange, his strength and tactical awareness are effortlessly conveyed. [Watch it here!]

To make matters worse, he presents his secret weapon: the Shintō Amenogozen, a space-time sword. What sets this sword apart is its unassuming appearance; on its own, it may not appear particularly remarkable. While it possesses the ability to cut through space and time, its power is limited until Fukuchi takes hold of it. In his hands, it becomes reminiscent of Yamato from Devil May Cry. Although a minor detail, it significantly enhances the sense of his earned power.

The audience is initially introduced to the sword's immense reach, but its true and even more formidable ability is revealed only after Atsushi and Akutagawa appear to have won. Fukuchi's sword, known as the "space-time" sword, showcases a remarkable twist that is beautifully encapsulated by a profound quote from Atsushi.

This creature triumphs over previous failures.

Fukuchi's motivations are captivating, and it's not overly challenging to speculate on how he arrived at this juncture. The revelation that his sword holds the power to manipulate the fabric of the past suggests that he has perished numerous times, rescued by the fusion of his "gift" and a relic that he regards as divine affirmation. Witnessing unspeakable horrors that elude the grasp of most, he nurtures a deep-seated animosity towards a world that remains blissfully ignorant of such heartrending calamities.

Seeing this aspect of him develop further would be delightful. Initially, it was astonishing to consider that someone could surpass the iconic and captivating villain, Fyodor, in status. However, Fukuchi has proven himself with this episode, becoming an intimidating and formidable adversary. It's difficult to grasp that we are only in the third episode of the season, leaving us wondering how Bungo Stray Dogs will surpass this excellence in the remaining eight episodes.