Readers should be aware that the following content includes spoilers from Blue Exorcist: The Blue Night Saga, episode 1, which is currently available for streaming on Crunchyroll.
Episode Overview
- Rin encounters his parents in their youth, guided by Mephisto.
- Yuri’s playful interaction with Satan leads to a tragic event that costs her family dearly.
- Yuri eventually finds herself at the Exorcist Academy, leaving Rin heartbroken and alone with only Shiro and Yukio.
Blue Exorcist: The Blue Night Saga kicks off as the second installment of season 4, following the impressive finale of Beyond The Snow. While this season unfolds more like a series of flashbacks rather than a direct continuation, the first episode delivers an outstanding entry into the storyline.
This premiere episode shines a light on the younger versions of characters including Yuri, Rin, and Yukio’s mother. Meanwhile, we witness Rin Okamura’s journey back in time where he meets Mephisto, who serves as his enigmatic guide throughout this experience.
Back Where It All Began
Encountering Yuri and Shiro
As the episode begins, Rin finds himself transported 40 years into the past, witnessing a younger version of his father, Shiro Fujimoto, alongside an earlier portrayal of Mephisto. Notably, the animation quality continues to impress with meticulously crafted character designs, particularly for Mephisto.
In their meeting, Mephisto reveals that he is there to guide Rin but cautions him that the tale they are about to unfold is destined for tragedy. Shortly thereafter, Rin comes across a young Yuri living in extreme poverty. Mephisto warns Rin against intervening in the past; while it may not create a time paradox, it could result in confusion and complications.
This ambiguity raises questions about Rin’s motivations—does he hope to alter the course of events? Despite her circumstances, Yuri discovers joy in her makeshift family among fellow homeless individuals, including a peculiar grandmother figure.
The Introduction of Satan
As the narrative advances, we see Yuri engaged in childlike play with Rinka, who is revealed to be Satan. In a tragic sequence, Satan inadvertently causes a devastating fire that claims the lives of Yuri’s makeshift family. This heartbreaking moment starkly highlights the daily struggles faced by those without homes. Even in death, their plight remains largely overlooked.
Following this tragedy, an anguished Yuri encounters Shiro for the first time, marking a pivotal moment in her life.
The Asylum Incident
As events unfold, exorcists storm into the shelter where Yuri and Shiro are hiding, interrogating Shiro and taking both youths to the asylum—the Exorcist Academy. This is especially significant as Yuri possesses the ability to see the Demonic Black Dog that accompanies the exorcists.
In a poignant conclusion to the episode, Rin reflects on his own troubled youth, pointing out how he had only Yukio and Shiro for support, while his mother faced the world alone. This realization amplifies Rin’s sorrow as Yuri embarks on her journey to become an exorcist.
Concluding Thoughts
With such an impactful first episode, the potential for the remainder of the season seems boundless. The stunning animation and the intricate character designs, especially for Mephisto, Yuri, and Shiro, are truly noteworthy.
The opening theme, “Tsukaku”by Amazarashi, is an invigorating tune that complements the beautiful yet sorrowful visuals that accompany the ending. As Mephisto expressed, this saga promises to unravel in tragic ways, and audiences are eager to see how Blue Exorcist: The Blue Night Saga will unfold its narrative.
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