Season 2 - Episode 7 - Alice in Borderland

Introduction

"Alice in Borderland" is a Japanese science fiction thriller drama television series based on the manga of the same name by Haro Aso. The series, directed by Shinsuke Sato, premiered on Netflix on December 10, 2020, and has since garnered significant attention for its intense action sequences, gripping direction, and compelling acting. Season 2, released on December 22, 2022, continues the story of Arisu and his allies as they navigate the treacherous world of the Borderlands.

Season 2 – Episode 7, titled "The Witch Hunt," is a pivotal episode that showcases the series’ ability to blend psychological thriller elements with intense survival games. The episode was written by Yoshiki Watabe, Yasuko Kuramitsu, and Shinsuke Sato, and it maintains the series’ trademark intensity and cinematic excellence ^[1].

Plot Summary

In "The Witch Hunt" episode, the story unfolds in the aftermath of a gruesome murder. A girl named Momoka is found stabbed to death, and the players are tasked with identifying the "witch" who committed the crime. The game, marked with a difficulty of "ten of hearts," sets a two-hour time limit for the players to find and execute the witch by throwing them onto a bonfire.

The episode begins with chaos and confusion as the players are unsure of what is happening. Aguni, a vicious Beach militant, and his followers decide to kill everyone to collect the last card, leading to a bloody and anarchic situation. Usagi teams up with a group of players to rescue Arisu, while Ann, who has a background in forensic science, searches for evidence to identify the real witch. She examines fingerprints on the knife used to kill Momoka, which eventually leads to the revelation that Momoka was the witch and had killed herself ^[1].

As the game progresses, the tension escalates, and the players face numerous challenges. The episode features intense battles, including a dramatic fight between Ann and a creepy swordsman. Meanwhile, Arisu confronts Aguni, who confesses to shooting Hatter in self-defense but is misidentified as the witch. The real witch is eventually revealed to be Momoka, and the remaining players throw her body onto the bonfire to end the game.

The episode also delves into the backstory of several characters through flashbacks. Kuina, a key character, is shown to have been disowned by her father due to her transgender identity. These flashbacks add depth to the characters and highlight the personal struggles they faced before entering the Borderlands ^[1].

Themes and Symbolism

"The Witch Hunt" episode explores several central themes that are characteristic of the "Alice in Borderland" series. One of the primary themes is the psychological impact of survival games on the human psyche. The episode illustrates how desperation and fear can lead to chaos and violence, as players are willing to kill each other to survive.

The theme of identity is also prominent, particularly through the character of Kuina. Her backstory reveals the societal pressures and rejection she faced, highlighting the struggles of marginalized communities. This theme is intertwined with the broader narrative of the series, which often questions the nature of identity and humanity in the face of extreme adversity ^[1].

Symbolism plays a significant role in the episode, especially in the form of the "witch hunt" game itself. The game serves as a metaphor for societal hysteria and the dangers of making assumptions without evidence. The players’ rush to judgment and their willingness to execute someone based on flimsy evidence mirror real-world scenarios where mob mentality can lead to tragic consequences.

The use of playing cards to represent the games is another symbolic element. The "ten of hearts" game signifies a high level of difficulty and emotional turmoil, reflecting the intense emotional stakes involved in identifying and executing the witch ^[1].

Cultural Impact

Season 2 – Episode 7 of "Alice in Borderland" has had a significant cultural impact since its release. The episode’s intense and suspenseful plot has resonated with audiences worldwide, contributing to the series’ global popularity. The show’s unique blend of survival games, psychological thrills, and social commentary has made it a staple in the science fiction and thriller genres.

The episode’s portrayal of complex characters and their backstories has also sparked discussions about representation and diversity in media. The inclusion of characters like Kuina, who is transgender, has been praised for its sensitivity and authenticity ^[1].

Critical Reception

"The Witch Hunt" episode received positive reviews from critics and audiences alike. Critics praised the episode’s direction, acting, and the way it balanced action and emotional depth. The episode’s ability to keep viewers on the edge of their seats while exploring deeper themes was particularly noted.

However, some critics pointed out that the episode’s pacing could be intense to the point of being overwhelming, and the sheer amount of violence and gore might be off-putting for some viewers. Despite these criticisms, the episode was widely regarded as one of the highlights of the season ^[1].

Legacy

Season 2 – Episode 7 of "Alice in Borderland" continues to be a significant part of the series’ legacy. The episode’s influence can be seen in its contribution to the broader narrative of the series, which has been renewed for a third season set to premiere in September 2025.

The episode’s themes and symbolism have also inspired discussions and analyses among fans and critics, cementing its place in the cultural landscape of contemporary television. As a part of a series that has been compared to other survival genre classics like "Battle Royale" and "Cube," "The Witch Hunt" episode stands out for its unique blend of psychological tension and survival mechanics ^[1].

The enduring relevance of this episode lies in its ability to engage audiences on multiple levels, from the immediate thrill of the survival games to the deeper exploration of human identity and society. As "Alice in Borderland" continues to evolve, episodes like "The Witch Hunt" remain pivotal in understanding the series’ overall impact and significance.