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Dissecting the Finale: One Punch Man Season 3, Episode 12
The third season of One Punch Man has come to a close with its 12th episode, leaving fans and critics divided. While the anticipation was high due to the legacy of its stellar first season, this finale seems to have polarized opinions further. Let’s delve into what worked, what didn’t, and how this episode fits into the broader narrative of the season.
Climactic Showdown (or Lack Thereof)
In true One Punch Man fashion, the final episode features our protagonist, Saitama, confronting the formidable leader of the Monster Association, Orochi. To no one’s surprise, the formidable battle ends with a single punch. This defeat was predictable, offering little in terms of suspense or drama. While this has always been the series’ trademark humor, the execution felt somewhat lacking this time, as it seemed to force an emotional depth that was largely unearned.
Small Moments of Humor and Insight
Despite the episode’s shortcomings, there were moments that managed to bring a smile. Saitama’s interaction with Overgrown Rover, treating the fierce creature like an ordinary pet, is a comedic highlight. This gag reinforces Saitama’s overwhelming power, where fearsome beasts are mere playthings.
Similarly, the encounter with Nyan, the cat monster, adds a whimsical touch. Its instinctive retreat after failing to harm Saitama encapsulates feline behavior, delivering a moment of light-hearted fun in an otherwise serious episode.
Editing and Battle Sequences
The battle between Tornado of Terror and Psykos, though heavily reliant on visual effects, offered something fresh. The rapid cuts and dynamic backgrounds created a sense of intensity and movement. The distinct style of animation differentiated it from typical fight sequences in the series, adding a dash of flair that was otherwise missing this season.
King’s Jokes: A Highlight
King’s comedic timing throughout the episode stood out as a consistent highlight. His character serves as a humorous counterbalance to the otherwise serious atmosphere, and every joke involving him landed perfectly. It’s always refreshing to see how King’s apparent ineptitude contrasts with the epic battles surrounding him.
The Verdict: Season 3’s Struggle
Ultimately, this episode reflects the overall struggle of Season 3: living in the shadow of its predecessor. It appears more reliant on the reputation of the first season than on its own merits. This dependency has resulted in a somewhat lackluster delivery, leaving devoted fans yearning for the magic that made them fall in love with the series initially.
Where to Watch
If you’re yet to witness the ups and downs of this season, it’s streaming on platforms like Hulu in the U.S., as well as Disney+, Netflix, and Crunchyroll in various regions.
Final Thoughts
Season 3’s finale of One Punch Man leaves us with mixed feelings. While it did deliver some memorable moments and clever humor, it largely falls short of the brilliance the series is known for. Whether you choose to watch this season or revisit the first, there’s no denying that One Punch Man remains a significant part of anime culture. Fans can only hope that the future will bring the series back to its former glory.
