Zom 100: Unraveling the Ending - Akira's Fate Revealed
Experience the thrilling conclusion of Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead in three exhilarating episodes, as Akira and his friends face their ultimate fate in a zombified world Will they find salvation or surrender to the undead?
After much anticipation, fans of Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead can finally celebrate the thrilling conclusion of the series with three back-to-back episodes. Despite some delays dampening the initial excitement, the captivating story and compelling characters kept fans eagerly awaiting the finale.
True to form, the finale delivered a satisfying end to season 1 and was a riveting emotional rollercoaster. The release of images showing the protagonist turning into a zombie caused widespread shock online, but it was later revealed that he was using the transformation as a clever ploy to save his father, and is alive and well.
Three episodes were released all at once during Christmas 2023, similar to a movie premiere, exceeding the expectations of Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead fans. Please be aware that this article contains major spoilers for the anime and manga series, Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead. Reader discretion is advised.
Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead - Why Higurashi became evil
Kanta Higurashi being slowly affected by the virus after getting bit by a zombie, as seen in Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead (Image via Bug Films)
Kanta Higurashi, though technically a major antagonist, defied expectations by not being the typical villain. Kencho reveals to Akira that Higurashi attended general education classes at K University, but abruptly stopped showing up six months later and was rumored to be living a Hikikomori/NEET lifestyle. From his apparent signs and thought process, it is suggested that Higurashi suffered from Peter Pan Syndrome, finding it difficult to accept reality and responsibilities, showcasing immature habits, and not caring about consequences. He made a grand debut in the ninth episode before the anime went on indefinite hiatus.
During that episode, it became clear that all Higurashi truly desired was to return to the carefree days of summer break, where he could enjoy leisurely days at the swimming pool with his friends. As his life unraveled before the impending apocalypse, he couldn't help but reflect on his feelings of inadequacy and longing for a simpler time. "When and why did I start falling behind everyone else? Feeling unappreciated and unwanted by society and others. I yearn to return to the carefree days of grade school summer break, when I didn't have to worry about anything and could spend my days at the pool with my friends, doing whatever I pleased." - Kanta Higurashi
After being defeated by Akira and bitten by a zombie, Higurashi, true to his nature of not giving up on anyone, was believed by Akira to not be driven by inherent evil. This prompted Akira to question Higurashi about his true desires and what he wanted to include in his bucket list. Higurashi's response was:
"I just wanted to have a good time at the community pool with my friends. While Higurashi's behavior is inexcusable, it was ultimately revealed that he wasn't inherently malicious. His loneliness and the difficulties of growing up pushed him towards immaturity and avoiding reality."
Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead - Did Akira repay his parents
His yearning to go back to the uncomplicated days of summer vacation in elementary school expressed a bittersweet longing for a time when life was less complicated, and he could relish carefree moments with friends at the pool. Higurashi's final words to Akira added a dimension of humanity to his character, challenging the initial perception of him as a typical antagonist.
Akira and his friends embark on a new journey, as depicted in Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead (Image via Bug Films).
Upon leaving Tokyo in pursuit of one of his bucket list items, "reconnect with my parents," Akira held onto hope of reconciling with his mother and father and seeking forgiveness for leaving things unresolved. Despite his return, Akira struggled to bridge the gap with his stern father, Teruou Tendou.
However, like every son, Akira discovered that his father was tough on him because he wanted his son to have a better future. Teruou wanted his son to have the biggest dream that he could follow, a dream that one would deem impossible. While discussing his dreams and accomplishments, Teruou revealed that he wanted to become an astronaut.
He emphasized that in the grand timeline of 13.8 billion years, one's life amounted to less than a tenth of a second. He encouraged pursuing endeavors that would make a lasting impact. After successfully defending the village from a zombie attack, Akira felt some relief in being able to help his parents, if only a little.
Later, Akira learned about his father's painful struggle with hemorrhoids, prompting him to vow to arrange for his father to receive surgery. Akira also expressed his ambitious goal of finding a cure for the zombie virus and "saving the world," a dream that his father acknowledged as challenging but worthwhile.
Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead - What happened to Akira and his friends in the end
After dealing with the unexpected destruction, the villagers joined forces to rebuild and restore the area to its former beauty. Mr. Kumano even relocated to the village to use his carpentry skills to expedite the process. Akira made a promise to his parents and decided to leave the village to pursue his dreams elsewhere.
The villagers assisted Akira and his friends in preparing for their journey, providing them with essential supplies for the road ahead. In the final scenes of Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead, Akira Kencho, Shizuka, and Beatrix take a break and visit various popular attractions in Japan.
Akira and the group made the decision to start their journey from the north, and they all agreed to begin in Hokkaido. In the final scene, they finally reach the Seikan tunnel, which holds the title of the world’s second-longest railroad tunnel, only surpassed by the Gotthard Base Tunnel in Switzerland. The Seikan Tunnel is an impressive 53.85 km (33.46 mi) long and connects Honshu and Hokkaido.
Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead Season 1 is wrapping up, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the second season and the continuation of the characters' journey. Keep an eye out for future updates and news on the Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead anime and manga series.
Editor's P/S
As an enthusiastic fan of Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead, I was thrilled to finally witness the highly anticipated conclusion of the series. The three back-to-back episodes were a rollercoaster of emotions, keeping me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. The show's creators did an incredible job of building suspense and delivering a satisfying end to season 1.
One of the standout aspects of the finale was the revelation of Akira's true fate. The initial shock of seeing him transform into a zombie was quickly replaced by relief when it was revealed to be a clever ruse to save his father. This twist added an unexpected layer of depth to Akira's character and showcased his unwavering determination to protect his loved ones.
