Episode 8 of Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX, titled “Falling on the Moon,” has just been released, and it’s already generating significant buzz among fans. This episode dives deep into both the past and present, offering a compelling narrative that blends classic Gundam elements with intriguing new twists. Let’s break down the key events, characters, and implications of this pivotal episode.
Flashbacks and Fallen Heroes
The episode is structured in two distinct parts. The first half takes viewers back to the end of the One Year War, focusing on Char Aznable during the Second Battle of Solomon. This flashback is animated in a style reminiscent of classic Gundam, evoking nostalgia while providing fresh insights into Char’s final moments before the Zeknova incident. We see Char leading the Sodon Fleet to defend the lunar city of Granada against the Earth Federation’s assault on Solomon Fortress.
Char’s Enigmatic Fate
The flashback expands upon scenes from the Gundam GQuuuuuuX movie, offering a deeper exploration of what happened to Char right before the Zeknova incident. His final transmission, “I can see time,” is particularly striking, hinting at Newtype abilities and a connection to Lalah Sune, his Newtype protégé from the original series. This line, previously delivered by Lalah before her death in the original Mobile Suit Gundam, adds a layer of complexity to Char’s character and his understanding of the future.
M’Quve’s Unexpected Rise
Interestingly, M’Quve, traditionally portrayed as an arrogant antagonist, has experienced an unexpected career trajectory in this timeline. Instead of facing consequences for his actions, he has risen to become the commander of the relief fleet for the Battle of Solomon, which, in this alternate timeline, Zeon actually won. This twist presents a different perspective on M’Quve, suggesting that even flawed individuals can find success in a world shaped by different outcomes.
Granada: A City of Shadows
The second half of the episode shifts to the present, five years after the One Year War, in Granada. Nyaan finds herself entangled with Kycilia Zabi amidst a brewing civil war among Zeon’s elite families. This segment adopts a more modern anime visual style, enhancing the contrast between past and present.
Nyaan’s Lethal Calm
Nyaan takes center stage in this episode, showcasing her intelligence, observation skills, and surprising ruthlessness. Kycilia recognizes Nyaan’s unique qualities and brings her into her inner circle, sensing a kindred spirit.
Nyaan’s calm demeanor belies a sharp mind constantly analyzing her surroundings. This is highlighted when Kycilia shares some home cooking with Nyaan, a gesture that seems out of character for the stern and pragmatic Kycilia. Nyaan quickly realizes that Kycilia’s concern about assassination and poisoning is the reason behind her unusual domesticity.
Foiling the Poison Plot
Connecting these dots, Nyaan uncovers a plot to poison Kycilia and the GFreD test pilots. She identifies Miguel as the culprit, realizing that the delicious cake he made for her was also intended for the other pilots, and that Xavier never had a chance to try it. In a chilling moment, Nyaan confronts Miguel and dispatches him with cold precision.
A Ruthless Decision
Kycilia, witnessing Nyaan’s actions, promptly eliminates the man responsible for sourcing Miguel’s poison. This scene underscores the brutal nature of the power struggles within Zeon and highlights Kycilia’s willingness to take decisive action to maintain her position. The parallel executions reveal a shared ruthlessness between Kycilia and Nyaan, solidifying their bond.
GFreD’s Autonomous Abilities
Intriguingly, Nyaan appears to be able to control the GFreD without even entering the cockpit. This raises questions about the nature of her connection to the mobile suit and its autonomous capabilities. It also echoes the earlier event where the GQuuuuuuX seemingly saved Machu, suggesting that Nyaan might have been influencing its actions remotely.
Parallels to Neon Genesis Evangelion
Several reviews have noted the striking similarities between Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX Episode 8 and Neon Genesis Evangelion. These parallels include:
- The emphasis on a “third pilot”: This alludes to the dynamic between Rei Ayanami and the Evangelion units, where specific pilots are required to operate the mecha.
- The psychological depth of the characters: Nyaan’s quiet intensity and Kycilia’s hidden vulnerabilities are reminiscent of the complex characters in Evangelion.
- The merging of mecha combat with deeper, philosophical themes: The episode explores themes of identity, loyalty, and the cost of war, similar to the themes in Evangelion.
These similarities are not entirely surprising, given Hideaki Anno’s involvement with the series. Anno, the creator of Neon Genesis Evangelion, is known for his innovative storytelling and psychological exploration of characters. His influence is evident in the thematic and visual elements of Episode 8.
Key Takeaways and Future Implications
- Nyaan’s Ascendancy: Nyaan’s character undergoes significant development, transforming from a seemingly ordinary refugee into a key player in the Zeon conflict.
- Kycilia’s Trust: Kycilia’s decision to bring Nyaan into her inner circle suggests a growing alliance that could have major implications for the future of Zeon.
- Char’s Legacy: The flashback to the One Year War provides new context for Char’s actions and his mysterious fate, hinting at a deeper connection to the events unfolding in the present.
- GFreD’s Potential: Nyaan’s ability to control the GFreD without piloting it raises questions about the mobile suit’s true capabilities and its role in the ongoing conflict.
- Themes of Loyalty and Betrayal: The episode explores the complex dynamics of loyalty and betrayal, highlighting the cutthroat nature of the power struggles within Zeon.
Where to Watch
Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX streams exclusively on Amazon Prime Video.
Final Thoughts
Episode 8 of Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX is a complex and compelling installment that blends nostalgia with innovation. The episode’s exploration of character depth and thematic complexity has resonated with viewers. The fusion of classic Gundam with elements reminiscent of Neon Genesis Evangelion has created a unique and engaging viewing experience. As the series progresses, it will be interesting to see how these elements continue to evolve and shape the narrative.
