Tokyo Ghoul:re – Episode 36: Beautiful Dream: Daybreak

Introduction

Tokyo Ghoul:re – Episode 36: "Beautiful Dream: Daybreak" is the final episode of the anime series "Tokyo Ghoul:re," which is a continuation of the original "Tokyo Ghoul" series. This episode, released in 2018, marks a pivotal conclusion to the complex and emotionally charged narrative of Ken Kaneki and the world of ghouls and investigators. The series is based on the manga by Sui Ishida and was produced by Pierrot, a renowned anime production studio. The director, Odahiro Watanabe, and the writer, Chūji Mikasano, played crucial roles in bringing this intense and dramatic story to life.

"Beautiful Dream: Daybreak" stands out within its genre for its dark and profound exploration of themes such as identity, trauma, and the struggle between humanity and monstrosity. The episode’s production history is notable for its meticulous attention to detail in both animation and storytelling, ensuring that the final episode would be a satisfying yet haunting conclusion for fans.

Plot Summary

The episode begins with a dramatic and chaotic scene: a helicopter explosion propels a man through the air, setting the tone for the intense battles that follow. On the rooftop of the hideout, a fierce battle is underway between Haise Sasaki (the persona adopted by Ken Kaneki), Kanae Tsuneyoshi, and Shu Tsukiyama. The arrival of Eto Yoshimura, also known as Sen Takatsuki, significantly escalates the conflict. Eto’s revelation of her identity to Haise triggers Kanae to attack him brutally, leading to a critical moment in Haise’s internal struggle.

Inside Haise’s mind, a pivotal confrontation occurs as he tries to strangle the younger version of Kaneki, symbolizing his ongoing battle with his dual identities. This internal conflict is intensified by a memory of his mother’s abuse, which serves as a catalyst for Haise to realize that he is indeed Kaneki. This awakening leads to Kaneki regaining consciousness and taking control of Haise’s body. With his newfound resolve, Kaneki knocks out both Kanae and Tsukiyama and engages in an epic battle with Eto.

The battle between Kaneki and Eto is one of the most intense moments in the episode. Kaneki, now fully embracing his ghoul powers, fights with a ferocity that reflects his complete acceptance of his true self. Despite Eto’s formidable strength, Kaneki manages to bisect her, though he is aware that she may survive such an injury due to her Kakuja form ^[3][5].

Meanwhile, other significant events unfold. Kori Ui discovers Furuta crying and claiming to be the sole survivor, hinting at deeper plot twists and betrayals. The Quinx team, particularly Urie and the others, mourn the death of Shirazu, whose body was ambushed by Aogiri Tree, further complicating the narrative with themes of loss and betrayal.

The episode also delves into the psychological state of its characters, especially Sakaki, who in his mindscape realizes that he is not the true self but a construct created to shield his true self from the harsh realities. This realization leads Sakaki to decide to fade away, symbolizing the fragility and complexity of the human (or ghoul) psyche ^[5].

As the episode concludes, the aftermath of the battles is revealed. The CCG investigators arrive to find Kaneki consuming what remains of Eto’s Kakuja form, a stark reminder of his complete transformation. In a dramatic turn, Kanae sacrifices her life to save Shu from a fatal fall, redirecting him into trees to break his fall. The credits roll with a sense of closure yet open-endedness, as familiar ghouls from the coffee shop rescue Shu, and the Quinx team grapples with the loss of Shirazu, whose body was never recovered due to the ambush by Aogiri Tree ^[3][5].

Themes and Symbolism

"Beautiful Dream: Daybreak" is rich in themes and symbolic elements that contribute significantly to its storytelling and resonance with audiences. One of the central themes is the struggle with identity, particularly through Kaneki’s journey. His internal conflict between Haise and Kaneki represents the broader theme of dual identities and the search for self. This theme is symbolized through the physical battles and the psychological confrontations within Kaneki’s mind.

The episode also explores the theme of trauma and its lasting impact on individuals. Kaneki’s memories of his mother’s abuse and his experiences as a ghoul highlight the deep-seated psychological scars that characters carry. This theme is further emphasized through the character of Sakaki, whose realization about his own identity as a construct to shield his true self from trauma underscores the complexity of coping mechanisms.

The symbolism of the Kakuja form is another significant element. Eto’s Kakuja form represents the ultimate transformation and power that ghouls can achieve, but it also symbolizes the loss of humanity and the embracing of monstrosity. Kaneki’s battle with Eto and his subsequent consumption of her Kakuja form symbolize his full acceptance of his ghoul nature and his departure from any remaining human identity.

Cultural Impact

The cultural significance of "Beautiful Dream: Daybreak" lies in its impact on the anime community and its influence on popular culture. Upon its release, the episode received widespread attention for its dramatic conclusion and the resolution of several key plot arcs. The episode’s influence can be seen in various fan art, cosplay, and discussions within anime forums and social media platforms.

The episode has also been referenced in other media, such as in reviews and analyses that highlight its emotional depth and the complexity of its characters. The themes of identity, trauma, and the struggle between humanity and monstrosity have resonated with audiences, making "Tokyo Ghoul:re" a staple in the anime genre.

Critical Reception

"Beautiful Dream: Daybreak" received a mixed but generally positive reception from critics and audiences. Many praised the episode for its intense action sequences, emotional depth, and the resolution of key plot arcs. However, some critics felt that the episode did not fully capture the weight and tone of Sui Ishida’s original manga, finding the adaptation somewhat disappointing in conveying the full emotional impact of the story ^[3].

Despite these criticisms, the episode was lauded for its epic battles, particularly the fight between Kaneki and Eto, and the emotional closure it provided for several characters. The episode’s conclusion was seen as both satisfying and haunting, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.

Legacy

The legacy of "Beautiful Dream: Daybreak" is rooted in its enduring relevance within the anime community. The episode continues to inspire filmmakers, artists, and audiences with its complex characters, intense action sequences, and profound themes. It stands as a testament to the power of storytelling in anime, showcasing how a series can explore deep psychological and philosophical themes while maintaining a compelling narrative.

The episode’s influence can be seen in subsequent anime series that explore similar themes of identity, trauma, and the human condition. "Tokyo Ghoul:re" and its final episode have cemented their place in cinematic history as a landmark series that pushes the boundaries of storytelling in anime.