Tokyo Ghoul:re – Episode 34: THINK: Sway

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Introduction

Tokyo Ghoul:re – Episode 34, titled "THINK: Sway" (Japanese: ゆれる think), is a pivotal episode in the third season of the anime series Tokyo Ghoul:re, which is based on Sui Ishida’s manga of the same name. This episode, directed by Masayuki Matsumoto, was initially released on June 5, 2018, as part of the second cour of the season. The production of Tokyo Ghoul:re is credited to Pierrot, a renowned anime studio known for its work on various manga adaptations.

Tokyo Ghoul:re stands out within its genre for its complex exploration of the human condition, moral ambiguity, and the struggle between two conflicting worlds: that of humans and ghouls. Episode 34 is particularly significant as it delves into the psychological turmoil of its main characters and the escalating conflicts between the Commission of Counter Ghoul (CCG) and the ghoul community.

Plot Summary

The episode "THINK: Sway" is marked by several intense and emotionally charged events that further complicate the already intricate narrative of Tokyo Ghoul:re. The story begins with Ginshi Shirazu experiencing a haunting nightmare about his father, who hangs himself and apologizes while asking Shirazu to die, reflecting the deep-seated emotional scars that many characters in the series carry^[1].

Meanwhile, Haise Sasaki, now a key figure in the CCG’s Quinx Squad, is grappling with his past. Despite his efforts to uncover his true identity, he remains frustrated and disconnected from his memories. This internal conflict is exacerbated by the highly surveilled and restricted work environment imposed by the CCG, which slowly erodes his mental stability^[5].

Ui, the leader of the Quinx Squad, finally consents to Haise’s proposal for an undercover fact-finding mission. However, this plan is met with resistance from Kori Ui, who is aware of Sasaki’s true nature as a ghoul. The tension between the characters is heightened as Kijima’s brutal video torturing Yuuma goes viral, provoking the Rose gang and further destabilizing the fragile peace between humans and ghouls^[3].

In a parallel plotline, Tsukiyama, a powerful and enigmatic ghoul, plans to restore Kaneki’s (Sasaki’s) memories, intending to use him as a key figure in his own agenda. However, Tsukiyama’s attempts to communicate with Sasaki are thwarted, leading Kanae to orchestrate an attack on the Quinx Squad by bribing Aogiri members. This plan goes awry when Yamori’s old gang mistakenly targets Sasaki, resulting in a chaotic battle^[3].

During this battle, Mutsuki engages with Torso but is attacked by the ghoul Grave Robber. Sasaki, in a moment of crisis, unleashes his kagune to defend himself and his teammates, killing his attackers in the process. This incident highlights Sasaki’s growing struggle with his dual identity and the fear it instills in his colleagues, who begin to see him as an outsider within the CCG^[3].

Saiko Yonebayashi is almost killed in the melee but is saved by Amon Kotaru, who is revealed to be alive. This twist adds another layer of complexity to the narrative, as it brings back a character thought to be deceased and further intertwines the fates of the characters. Eto, a central antagonist, observes the entire scene, indicating her ongoing interest in Sasaki and the Quinx Squad^[3].

The episode also delves into the psychological impact of these events on the characters. Sasaki’s inability to recall his past and his increasing isolation within the CCG contribute to his mental instability. The Centipede, a manifestation of his ghoul side, begins to resurface, symbolizing the internal conflict that Sasaki faces. This internal struggle is a recurring theme throughout the series, reflecting the broader narrative of identity, belonging, and the blurred lines between human and ghoul^[5].

Themes and Symbolism

"THINK: Sway" is rich in themes and symbolic elements that are central to the Tokyo Ghoul series. One of the primary themes is the struggle with identity and the duality of human and ghoul existence. Sasaki’s character embodies this conflict, as he navigates between his life as a CCG investigator and his true nature as a ghoul. This duality is symbolized by the Centipede, which represents the suppressed ghoul within him^[5].

Another significant theme is the psychological impact of trauma and the consequences of violence. Characters like Shirazu and Sasaki are haunted by their pasts, and their nightmares and flashbacks serve as reminders of the emotional scars they carry. The episode highlights how these traumas shape their actions and decisions, often leading to further conflict and instability^[1].

The use of masks is also symbolic, as seen when Sasaki orders masks for the Quinx Squad to impersonate ghouls. Masks represent the facade that characters must maintain to survive in a world where their true identities could be fatal. This theme of deception and hiding one’s true self is a recurring motif in Tokyo Ghoul:re, reflecting the broader societal commentary on identity, acceptance, and the fear of the unknown^[3].

Cultural Impact

"THINK: Sway" has had a significant cultural impact, particularly within the anime and manga community. The episode’s release was highly anticipated, given the series’ popularity and the critical acclaim it had received. The intense action sequences, coupled with the deep character development, resonated strongly with fans and critics alike.

The episode’s influence can be seen in various forms of media, including fan art, cosplay, and fan fiction. The complex characters and the moral ambiguities presented in the series have inspired a dedicated fan base that continues to engage with the story and its themes.

Critical Reception

"THINK: Sway" received positive reviews from critics and audiences upon its release. The episode was praised for its intense action, emotional depth, and the way it advanced the plot while exploring the characters’ psychological states. Critics noted the episode’s ability to balance multiple plot threads and character arcs, which added to the overall tension and suspense.

However, some critics felt that the pacing could be improved, and the episode’s reliance on previous knowledge of the series might make it challenging for new viewers to follow. Despite these minor criticisms, the episode was widely regarded as a highlight of the season, showcasing the series’ ability to blend action, drama, and psychological thriller elements effectively^[3].

Legacy

"THINK: Sway" continues to be a significant episode in the Tokyo Ghoul:re series, influencing both the anime and manga communities. The episode’s exploration of complex themes such as identity, trauma, and the human condition has inspired many creators and fans.

The series as a whole has left a lasting impact on the anime genre, known for its dark and mature storytelling, complex characters, and moral ambiguity. "THINK: Sway" stands as a testament to the series’ ability to engage audiences on a deep emotional level, making it a memorable and impactful episode in the Tokyo Ghoul franchise.