Tokyo Ghoul:re – Episode 26: MEMBER: Fragments

Introduction

Tokyo Ghoul:re – Episode 26: "MEMBER: Fragments" is a pivotal installment in the anime series Tokyo Ghoul:re, which serves as a sequel to the original Tokyo Ghoul series. Produced by Pierrot, the episode was directed by Toshinori Watanabe, with scripts written by Chūji Mikasano, and produced by a team that included Ken Hagino and Shingo Ishikawa among others. The episode initially aired in 2018 as part of the second season of Tokyo Ghoul:re.

This episode stands out within its genre for its deep exploration of character psychology, particularly the complex and often tragic narrative of Ken Kaneki, now living under the identity of Haise Sasaki due to severe brain damage and memory loss. The series delves into themes of identity, trauma, and the blurred lines between human and ghoul, making it a compelling and emotionally charged watch.

Plot Summary

In "MEMBER: Fragments," the narrative is multifaceted, weaving together several key plot threads and character arcs. The episode begins with Haise Sasaki, the leader of the Quinx Squad, struggling with his dual identity as both Haise and the suppressed Ken Kaneki. During a mission, Haise loses control while fighting against Orochi, a powerful ghoul, and has to be subdued by his teammates ^[1][3].

Back at the CCG’s headquarters, the Chateau, Haise berates Kuki Urie for not ensuring the squad’s safety during the mission. This tension highlights the internal conflicts within the Quinx Squad and Haise’s growing instability. Meanwhile, in another part of the city, Kuki Urie and Juuzou Suzuya are engaged in a fierce battle against a horde of ghouls in the underground storehouse of Zeum Hall. Urie acknowledges Suzuya’s exceptional combat skills, showcasing the camaraderie and respect among the squad members despite their differences ^[2].

A significant portion of the episode revolves around the psychological state of Haise Sasaki. The revelation that Sasaki is indeed Kaneki, though he does not remember his past, adds a layer of complexity to his character. Orochi’s appearance and his revelation as Nishiki, a figure from Kaneki’s past, snaps the fragile hold on Sasaki’s sanity, causing Kaneki’s persona to resurface momentarily. This event forces the CCG to intervene, highlighting the ongoing struggle between Kaneki’s suppressed identity and his current persona as Haise Sasaki ^[3].

The episode also delves into the emotional depth of Sasaki’s interactions, particularly his encounter with Touka Kirishima at a cafe. This scene is marked by its poignant use of visual and auditory elements, such as warm lighting and background music, which emphasize the historical and emotional complexity of their relationship. The brief but intense interaction between Sasaki and Touka speaks volumes about their past and the unresolved feelings between them ^[3].

Tsukiyama, another key character, plays a crucial role in attempting to restore Kaneki’s memories. He, along with Kanae, orchestrates several attempts to make Sasaki remember his true identity as Kaneki. However, these efforts are met with failure, and Tsukiyama resorts to more drastic measures, including bribing Aogiri members to attack the Quinx Squad in order to isolate Sasaki. This plot twist adds to the overall tension and highlights the desperation of characters like Tsukiyama who are deeply invested in Kaneki’s past and future ^[4].

The episode concludes with several intense battles and dramatic turns. Mutsuki Tooru engages in a fierce fight against Torso, a member of Yamori’s old gang, while Saiko Yonebayashi is nearly killed but saved by Amon Kotaru, who is revealed to be alive. These battles underscore the constant danger and violence that the characters face and the bonds of camaraderie that keep them going despite these challenges ^[4].

Themes and Symbolism

"MEMBER: Fragments" is rich in themes and symbolic elements that enhance its storytelling and resonance with audiences. One of the central themes is the struggle with identity, particularly through the character of Haise Sasaki/Ken Kaneki. The episode explores how trauma and memory loss can fragment one’s identity, leading to internal conflicts and a search for self. This theme is symbolized through the dual personas of Sasaki and Kaneki, representing the human and ghoul aspects of his being.

Another significant theme is the blurred line between humans and ghouls. The Quinx Squad, composed of individuals with ghoul-like abilities but raised as humans, embodies this theme. Their struggles and interactions highlight the moral ambiguities and the societal pressures that come with being caught between two worlds.

The use of lighting and color in the episode also carries symbolic weight. The warm, bright lighting in the cafe scene with Sasaki and Touka contrasts sharply with the dark, moody tones of the rest of the world, symbolizing the warmth and connection of human relationships amidst a bleak and violent environment ^[3].

Cultural Impact

"MEMBER: Fragments" has had a notable cultural impact since its release. The episode’s emotional depth and complex character dynamics resonated strongly with fans of the series, contributing to the broader popularity of Tokyo Ghoul:re. The series itself has influenced other anime and manga works by exploring themes of identity, morality, and the human condition in a dark fantasy setting.

The episode’s release was met with significant fan engagement, with discussions and analyses flooding social media and anime forums. The emotional intensity of scenes like the Sasaki and Touka encounter has been particularly memorable, often cited as one of the standout moments of the series.

Critical Reception

Critically, "MEMBER: Fragments" was well-received for its character development, emotional depth, and narrative progression. Reviewers praised the episode for its handling of Kaneki’s complex psychological state and the impactful interactions between characters. The visual and auditory elements, such as the lighting and background music in key scenes, were also highlighted as strengths of the episode ^[3].

However, some critics noted that the pacing could be uneven at times, with some plot threads feeling rushed or underdeveloped. Despite these minor criticisms, the episode was generally praised for its contribution to the overall narrative arc of Tokyo Ghoul:re.

Legacy

"MEMBER: Fragments" continues to be a significant part of the Tokyo Ghoul franchise’s legacy. The episode’s exploration of complex themes and its emotional resonance have made it a benchmark for character-driven storytelling in anime. It has inspired other creators to delve into similar themes of identity, trauma, and the human condition.

The episode’s influence can be seen in subsequent anime series that explore dark fantasy and psychological themes. It remains a favorite among fans of the series, and its memorable scenes continue to be discussed and analyzed years after its release.