Aiku’s Defensive Masterclass and the U-20 Counterattack
Episode 36 of Blue Lock’s second season, titled “Flowers,” is a whirlwind of intense soccer action and character development. The episode opens with a focus on Oliver Aiku’s backstory, revealing his past aspirations as a striker and how those dreams were stifled by external pressures. This sets a stage for the emergence of Aiku, who having entered “flow,” becomes a defensive powerhouse, showcasing enhanced reading and reaction abilities. Aiku’s performance single-handedly neutralizes the Blue Lock Eleven’s attacks, shifting the game’s momentum in favor of the U-20 Japan team. This display of skill and adaptability highlights a crucial aspect of Blue Lock – the necessity of evolving beyond one’s initial role and embracing all aspects of the game. The U-20 Japan team launches a fierce counterattack led by Sae Itoshi and Shidou Ryusei, pushing the Blue Lock players to their limits.
Gagamaru’s Goalkeeping Potential
While Aiku’s backstory is captivating, the episode also throws a spotlight on Gin Gagamaru. Known for his incredible reflexes and agility, Gagamaru, originally a striker, starts to demonstrate surprising talent as a goalkeeper, further adding to the dynamic nature of the game, and indicating his surprising evolution. His animalistic instincts prove to be a valuable asset for the Blue Lock team, hinting at a potential future role shift for him within the program. This sub-plot demonstrates that the Blue Lock program isn’t just about strikers, but also about individuals finding their place and excelling at it.
The Blue Lock Eleven’s Desperate Defense and Counter-Attack
Determined not to concede another goal, the Blue Lock Eleven rally their defense, protecting their net at all costs. This showcases the resilience and team spirit that has developed throughout the grueling training program. The episode masterfully portrays the desperation and determination of these young players as they face a seemingly insurmountable challenge. The scene cuts and animation emphasize the high stakes and the physical toll the game is taking on the players, making for a compelling viewing experience. This segment highlights the mental fortitude that Blue Lock aims to cultivate in its players.
Isagi’s Strategic Positioning and the Shadow of Rin
Amid the defensive struggle, Isagi Yoichi and his teammates prepare for their own counterattack. However, a pivotal moment arises when Isagi’s well-planned shot is intercepted by Sae Itoshi, who takes an unexpected interest in Isagi, possibly to use him to provoke his younger brother, Rin Itoshi. Rin’s frustration at being outpaced by his teammates is palpable, with his “edgy teenage angst” showing, as one reviewer described it. Despite being a prodigy and central to the Blue Lock team, he is yet to score a goal in this match, leading to a feeling of inadequacy. This is further compounded by the fact that everyone else around him seems to be evolving and performing better. The focus on Rin’s internal conflict sets the stage for his potential growth.
Barou’s Calculated Strike and the Shifting Tides
The episode then takes an unexpected turn. Despite the build up for Rin, and Isagi attempting to make a play, Barou Shoei, who had been lurking in the background, seizes the opportunity to strike, scoring a goal. This unexpected move demonstrates his cunning and opportunism. Barou’s ability to patiently wait for the right moment and then execute with precision is a testament to his strategic prowess. This scene showcases how different players use their “ego” to succeed, adding to the complex nature of the competition.
The Absence of Rin’s Flow State and the Potential Climax
The episode concludes with a sense of anticipation. Despite the buildup and flashbacks focused on Rin, he has yet to achieve his “flow state” which is a crucial element for success in Blue Lock, suggesting that his moment is yet to come. There is a sense that the show is building towards a climax where Rin will have to fully embrace his ego to overcome his own limitations and perhaps surpass his brother. The episode serves as a reminder that, in the world of Blue Lock, evolution is constant, and complacency is a recipe for failure. The parallels between Oliver Aiku and Sae Itoshi are also intriguing, hinting at further layers of complexity in the characters’ motivations.
Overall Impression and Evolving Themes
Episode 36 of Blue Lock is an impressive installment, delivering a high level of action, character development, and strategic depth. The focus on individual growth and the importance of embracing one’s ego is a recurring theme throughout the series. The animation, while criticized by some for inconsistencies, still manages to effectively portray the intensity of the match. The episode does a masterful job of building tension and setting the stage for a potentially explosive finale. The introduction of new backstories and the exploration of previously established characters contribute to the richness of the narrative, making it more than just a sports anime. The themes of ambition, ego, and relentless evolution continue to resonate, solidifying Blue Lock‘s place as a must-watch anime for fans of the genre and beyond. The episode leaves viewers eagerly anticipating the next one to witness Rin’s potential awakening and the conclusion of this pivotal match.
Release Date: December 21, 2024, in Japan, with subsequent releases on streaming platforms like Crunchyroll.
