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Bleach 6

November 15, 2004

Title:
Fansubbed by: Lunar Anime

Ages ago, a twisted anti-Hollow soul escaped from the Soul Society.

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Unfortunately, due to a faulty paranormal product . . .

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the anti-Hollow soul takes control of Ichigo's body.

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The End.

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RATING: B

As pointed out in superlative reviews of Ten, Garten, and Tensai11, this episode delivers an entertaining blend of humor, style, and plot.

Despite the fact that this series is still in its initial throes, it's interesting to see that Bleach doesn't shy away from high-level ethical dilemmas. As a case in point, although Ichigo bears the insignia and powers of the Soul Society, he seems to be quite concerned with the creatures that he is ordained to kill, and empathizes them to a surprising degree. It's rather disconcerting to see this alternate side of the traditionally nonchalant Ichigo, but it makes for a surprisingly deep protagonist.

If anything, the dual nature of Ichigo blends particularly well with Rukia, who uses her absurdly different demeanors at school and outside school to a particularly comic effect. Undoubtedly, the recurrent slapstick gags provide a humorous lief-motif to the darker ethical discussions, and ensures that the story never grows monotonous.

In any case, this series seems to be developing quite well. Although Bleach was originally touted as the next "Naruto-killer", it seems to have claimed its own independent niche and promises to prosper under its own steam.

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