Tokyo Ghoul:re – Episode 25: START: Those Who Hunt

Introduction

Tokyo Ghoul:re – Episode 25, titled "START: Those Who Hunt," is a pivotal installment in the second season of the anime series Tokyo Ghoul:re, which is a continuation of the original Tokyo Ghoul series. The episode is part of a larger narrative that explores the complex world of ghouls and humans in a dystopian Tokyo. Produced by Pierrot, the series is based on the manga by Sui Ishida and has been adapted under the direction of Toshinori Watanabe.

The production history of Tokyo Ghoul:re involves a team of seasoned creatives, including director Toshinori Watanabe, who is known for his work on various anime series, and writer Chūji Mikasano, who has been instrumental in adapting the manga into the anime format. The series premiered in April 2018, marking a significant return to the Tokyo Ghoul universe after the conclusion of the first series.

What sets "START: Those Who Hunt" apart is its deep dive into the psychological and emotional struggles of its characters, particularly Ken Kaneki, now known as Haise Sasaki, and the members of the Quinx Squad. This episode delves into themes of identity, loyalty, and the blurred lines between human and ghoul, making it a standout within the anime genre.

Plot Summary

The episode "START: Those Who Hunt" begins with Haise Sasaki, a character who embodies the dual identity of Ken Kaneki and his alter ego created through intense brainwashing and conditioning by the Commission of Counter Ghoul (CCG). Sasaki is part of the Quinx Squad, an experimental division of the CCG composed of investigators who have been surgically modified to possess ghoul-like abilities known as kagunes.

The Quinx Squad, under the direct supervision of Akira Mado, is tasked with hunting down ghouls, but their mission is complicated by internal conflicts and personal struggles. Sasaki, who is still grappling with his past as Kaneki, finds himself at the center of these conflicts. His interactions with other characters, such as Urie and Tsukiyama, reveal the deep-seated issues he faces in reconciling his two identities.

As the episode progresses, it becomes clear that Sasaki’s past as Kaneki is not fully suppressed. He experiences hallucinations and flashbacks, particularly when he is reminded of his time at Anteiku, a coffee shop that served as a haven for ghouls. These flashbacks are triggered by various events, including his encounters with other characters who knew him as Kaneki.

One of the central plot points involves Hinami, a young ghoul who recognizes Sasaki as Kaneki and attempts to save him from the CCG’s clutches. Her actions lead to a confrontation with Takizawa, another character with a complex past, resulting in a fierce battle that highlights the physical and emotional toll of being a ghoul.

Meanwhile, the CCG’s plans to eliminate Tsukiyama’s family are set in motion, adding another layer of tension to the narrative. Tsukiyama’s father, in an attempt to protect his son, drugs him to prevent him from getting involved in the impending conflict. This subplot underscores the themes of family, loyalty, and the sacrifices characters must make to protect those they care about.

The episode also explores the dynamics within the Quinx Squad, particularly the rivalry between Urie and Sasaki. Urie’s desperation to prove himself and gain prestige within the CCG creates tension and competition among the squad members. This internal conflict is juxtaposed with the external threat posed by ghouls, highlighting the dual challenges faced by the characters.

Throughout the episode, the narrative arcs of various characters intersect and diverge, creating a complex web of relationships and conflicts. Sasaki’s journey is at the heart of this narrative, as he struggles to reconcile his past and present selves. His acceptance of his Kaneki side and his subsequent battle with Takizawa mark a significant turning point in his character development.

The setting of the episode is primarily within the CCG headquarters and the streets of Tokyo, where the Quinx Squad conducts their missions. The auction room, where Hinami and Takizawa clash, serves as a critical location that underscores the brutal nature of the world the characters inhabit.

The central conflicts of the episode revolve around identity, loyalty, and survival. Sasaki’s internal conflict between his Kaneki and Sasaki personas is mirrored in the external conflicts between ghouls and humans. The episode culminates in a dramatic showdown that leaves several characters injured and sets the stage for further developments in the series.

Themes and Symbolism

"START: Those Who Hunt" is rich in themes and symbolic elements that enhance its storytelling and resonance with audiences. One of the primary themes is the struggle with identity, particularly through Sasaki’s character. His dual identity as Kaneki and Sasaki symbolizes the internal conflict many individuals face when trying to reconcile different aspects of themselves.

The theme of loyalty is also prevalent, as characters like Hinami and Tsukiyama go to great lengths to protect those they care about. This loyalty is often tested by the harsh realities of their world, where survival is a daily struggle.

The episode also explores the theme of power and control, as seen in the CCG’s efforts to regulate and eliminate ghouls. The Quinx Squad’s existence as part-human, part-ghoul underscores the blurred lines between these two groups and challenges the notion of a clear distinction between them.

Symbolically, the kagunes possessed by the Quinx Squad members represent their hybrid nature and the constant battle they face to maintain their humanity. The hallucinations and flashbacks experienced by Sasaki serve as a metaphor for the fragmented nature of his identity and the trauma he has endured.

Cultural Impact

"START: Those Who Hunt" has had a significant cultural impact since its release. The episode, along with the entire Tokyo Ghoul:re series, has been well-received by fans and critics alike for its deep character development and complex storytelling. It has influenced popular culture, particularly in the anime community, where it is often cited as an example of a series that successfully explores dark and mature themes.

The episode’s release was highly anticipated, given the popularity of the original Tokyo Ghoul series. It has been referenced in various forms of media, including fan art, cosplay, and fan fiction, demonstrating its enduring influence on the anime fandom.

Critical Reception

"START: Those Who Hunt" received positive reviews from critics and audiences upon its release. Critics praised the episode for its intense action sequences, emotional depth, and the way it handled complex character relationships. The episode’s ability to balance multiple plot threads and character arcs was particularly noted.

However, some critics pointed out that the pacing could be uneven at times, and the sheer amount of information presented could be overwhelming for new viewers. Despite these minor criticisms, the episode was generally well-received for its contribution to the overall narrative of Tokyo Ghoul:re.

Audiences also responded positively, appreciating the episode’s emotional resonance and the development of key characters. The episode’s climax, which saw Sasaki confront his past and his current identity, was particularly praised for its emotional impact.

Legacy

"START: Those Who Hunt" continues to be a significant episode in the Tokyo Ghoul franchise, influencing both filmmakers and audiences. Its exploration of complex themes such as identity, loyalty, and the human condition has set a high standard for anime storytelling.

The episode’s impact on the anime community is evident in the way it has inspired other creators to tackle similar themes and narratives. Its influence can be seen in various other anime series that explore the blurred lines between different groups and the internal conflicts characters face.

In conclusion, "START: Those Who Hunt" is a pivotal episode in Tokyo Ghoul:re that continues to resonate with audiences and inspire creators. Its enduring relevance is a testament to the power of well-crafted storytelling and the depth of its characters.