Episode 7 of Kowloon Generic Romance delves deeper into the characters’ search for self and the mysteries surrounding Kowloon Walled City. While the episode maintains the anime’s consistent quality, some critics find it to be somewhat repetitive and lacking in significant plot progression, while others are captivated by the deepening mysteries and character development. This article explores the key events, themes, and character arcs in Episode 7, drawing on various reviews and analyses.
Episode Summary
Episode 7 sees Hebinuma wandering around Kowloon, reminiscing about his first meeting with Nguyen three years prior. He passes out at a dance club and is found by Reiko, who is working as a real estate agent. They talk, and Reiko explains that she is now a different person from Kujirai B and intends to live as her “absolute self.” Hebinuma refers to Reiko as a “generic being.” Reiko also shares this with Yaomay.
Meanwhile, Kudou and Gwen have a conversation where Gwen encourages Kudou to leave Kowloon as soon as possible, hinting at impending danger. The episode also confirms that the second Kowloon was demolished by Hebinuma Inc. three years ago and that it was an illegal copy.
Themes and Analysis
The Search for Self
A central theme of Episode 7 is the characters’ quest to define their identities. Kujirai A is determined to become her “absolute self,” separate from the deceased Kujirai B. Miyuki also announces his intention to pursue this goal. As one review puts it, becoming one’s “absolute self” means “becoming the person I choose to be, without compromise, regardless of my past.”
Yaomay’s extensive plastic surgery is presented as one way of separating herself from her past, while Miyuki’s path is described as “darker, tinged with both regret and revenge.” Kujirai A’s decisions seem partly based on seeking Kudo’s approval, influencing her opinions on moving apartments and remaining in Kowloon.
Nostalgia and the Nature of Kowloon
The episode continues to explore the themes of nostalgia and the artificial nature of Kowloon. The city is portrayed as a place where the past, present, and future converge, offering refuge for those who long for a bygone era. However, the episode also hints at the dangers of being trapped in the past, as Kudou seems to be.
The “Generic” Concept
Episode 7 introduces the concept of “Generic Terra,” a project by Hebinuma that aims to create a fake Earth with fake people, raising questions about the nature of reality and identity. Reiko is called a “generic being” by Hebinuma, which challenges her sense of self and her struggle to differentiate herself from Kujirai B. Some analysts suggest that the series might end with the creation of a “generic,” possibly referring to Kujirai A becoming her own person.
Character Interactions
- Kudou and Gwen: Their conversation reveals that Kudou is seen as an outsider in Kowloon and that something bad is happening structurally. Gwen encourages Kudou to leave, but Kudou is reluctant, seemingly because of Reiko.
- Reiko and Miyuki: Miyuki confronts Reiko about her identity, pushing her to accept her “absolute self.”
- Reiko and Yaomay: Reiko confides in Yaomay about being called a “generic being.” Yaomay invites Reiko to go shopping in Hong Kong, potentially offering her a chance to break free from Kowloon’s influence.
Character Arcs
Reiko Kujirai
Reiko’s arc in Episode 7 revolves around her determination to define herself as an individual, separate from the memory of Kujirai B. She declares her intention to live as her “absolute self” and seeks to distance herself from the past. However, being labeled a “generic being” shakes her confidence and raises doubts about her true identity.
Hajime Kudou
Kudou remains an enigmatic figure, seemingly trapped in the past and haunted by the loss of the original Kujirai. He is drawn to Reiko but struggles to reconcile her with his memories of her predecessor. His conversation with Gwen suggests that he is aware of the dangers surrounding Kowloon but is unwilling to leave, possibly due to his feelings for Reiko.
Miyuki Hebinuma
Miyuki’s character takes a darker turn as he expresses regret about “breaking something precious,” likely referring to Kowloon. He intends to use Generic Terra, possibly for revenge, and seems to be on a quest to uncover the truth behind Kowloon’s mysteries.
Reception and Criticism
Reviews of Episode 7 are mixed. Some critics find the episode to be repetitive, with Kujirai A reiterating her desire to break free from Kowloon’s nostalgic grip without taking concrete action. They argue that the episode’s character moments and story beats “don’t really go anywhere” and that the visuals are “simple to a fault.”
Other reviewers, however, appreciate the episode’s exploration of identity, the deepening mysteries surrounding Kowloon, and the complex character interactions. They see the episode as a step towards resolving some of the series’ central conflicts and setting the stage for future developments.
Unanswered Questions and Future Developments
Episode 7 leaves viewers with several burning questions:
- What is the true nature of Kowloon and its connection to Generic Terra?
- What are Miyuki’s plans for Generic Terra, and what is his ultimate goal?
- Will Reiko succeed in becoming her “absolute self,” or will she remain trapped by the past?
- What is Kudou’s role in the unfolding events, and will he ever be able to move on from the death of the original Kujirai?
The ending of the episode, with Yaomay inviting Reiko to Hong Kong, suggests that Reiko may soon have the opportunity to leave Kowloon and confront her past. It remains to be seen whether she will take this chance and what she will discover about herself and the mysteries of Kowloon.
Kowloon Generic Romance continues to be a captivating anime that blends romance, science fiction, and mystery in a unique and thought-provoking way. While Episode 7 may not be the most action-packed installment, it deepens the characters and lays the groundwork for future revelations.
