Here we have it! I believe it’s safe to say that Darling in the FranXX is the anime of the season. There were so many things going on in this episode. The romance is better than in most dedicated romance-anime, the cinematography is as good as “Eureka Seven” and the action is breath-taking.

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At the beginning we see the group of leaders including “Papa” discussing about Zero Two and how to proceed with her. They decide to send her back to the front where she will fight of some Klaxosaurus with a partner who will probably die.In the main mansion we see Mitsuru and his recovery. He seems to be also mentally hurt by Zero Two. Its obvious, that Mitsuru is afraid of her because he had the feeling that the girl tried to devour him whole and smiled all along. Hiro and an Ichigo have finally a brief talk about Zero Two. Ichigo explains that Hiro might be in danger and that she doesn’t trust the girl. She reassures Hiro, that she won’t try to hold him back anymore. This shows a great amount of character development of Ichigo. After dis discussion, Hiro has a short phase of insecurity about his situation and his relationship with Zero Two. The other children discuss the current situation as well. They seem to be aware, that they might not live long if Hiro is not around piloting with Zero Two. During this meeting Ichigo shows off her skills as a team leader.Zero Two confronts Hiro in the baths. She still wants to run away with him but she suddenly doubts Hiro. She fears that Hiro, like the others, might see her as a monster. They are interrupted by an attack by Klaxosaurus. All the children, including Hiro and Zero Two, are ready to board the FranXX but Nana orders, that Strelizia won’t be diploid. A couple of soldiers from HQ come into the briefing room and escort Zero Two back to HQ. Hiro finally “confesses” two Zero Two and they both run of to Strelizia with whom they help the others defeat the Klaxosaurus. The battle and the connection of Zero Two and Hiro will have some consequences in the future.The major theme in this episode is piloting with the right partner. Hiro is finally able to pilot the FranXX with Zero Two and demonstrates his full potential. It’s interesting to note that Zero Two had never the chance th choose her partner for her own up until now. Hiro is the first, who accepts Zero Two like she is and don’t see her as a monster.In this episode, Ichigo is able to get over the fact, that Hiro has Zero Two to pilot Strelizia with. This shows a great character development for Ichigo. She does finally accept Hiro and Zero Two as a team.This episode made my mind. I know I might be a bit bias, because I am a huge mecha fan, but I believe it’s safe to say, that Darling in the FranXX is the anime of this season. This episode provided all I wanted to see and much more. There is great progression and character development. The art and music are amazing as well.Poster by Studio Trigger and A-1 Pictures