Hunter X Hunter 2011 – 47

September 16, 2012Guardian EnzoUncategorizedAnime, Hunter x Hunter, reviews

Maybe Kurapika should have listened to his Nen master a little better…

This episode reunited the team who gave us the monstrously epic Gon x Hisoka fight (part I) from episode 35, director Matsumura Masaki and animation director Mori Tomoko, and it’s easy to see the results. #35 remains the pinnacle of this series for me (along with #16), both for the emotional intensity of the Gon-Hisoka conflict and the sheer artistic majesty of that fight (and I include the BGM in that). While this episode equaled that one in terms of intensity, the tone and mood were altogether different – while #35 was dark as hell, this one was on another level of sheer emotional bleakness and desolation.

We didn’t spend nearly as much time with Mizuken as we did with Wing, who taught Gon and Killua their Nen. In fact, most of what we’ve seen of Mizuken’s interaction with Kurapika has come in flashback – and there was one moment from his brief appearance this week that really stuck with me. That was when he told Kurpika, “Seems to me like you’re only chaining yourself.” That’s pretty much what I’ve been thinking since this arc started, and I certainly didn’t see anything this week that made me feel differently. There have been times when I’ve thought that Hisoka, Gon and Killua were the scariest person in the cast, but now I’m not so sure it isn’t Kurapika.

I don’t think anyone would deny Kurpika the right to his anger. There could hardly be anything more personal than having your entire race wiped out and being the only survivor, and seeing it done for the most shallow of reasons at that. If Mizuken’s line was the most telling of the episode, the runner-up was surely when Kurpika asked Uvogin what the Phantom Troupe felt when they killed innocent bystanders. “Nothing” was not the answer he wanted to hear, but I don’t doubt that in Uvogin’s case it was true. Kurapika can’t grasp the notion of killing the innocent and feeling nothing – yet, he proves himself capable of killing a helpless opponent in the name of his revenge. Is it worse to feel nothing when killing someone – or to know it’s wrong, and do it anyway?

I really worry for Kurapika – he seems very close to being lost to the dark side here. Who is he, really – the kind person who cooperated with the boys and Leorio to survive the Hunter exam and the loyal colleague, or the seething mass of rage that seeks to extract blood for blood? I don’t think he can be both, no matter how many conditions he puts on his Nen. He’s undeniably freaky powerful, and possessed of a great intuitive mind as well. The former is manifested in his terrifying array of Nen skills – not just a Specialist (the scariest class to begin with) but one who can master all the skills equally when he’s in a state of red-eyed frenzy (which I can only assume takes a toll on him every time it happens). The latter is evident in the meticulous planning he puts into his revenge, starting with using real chains to make opponents think he’s a Manipulator (thus effectively hiding his Nen chains) to the careful selection of Uvogin as the ideal first victim (after that fight I can’t really say opponent) and test case.

As amazingly animated as this epic battle was, I was shocked at how one-sided it was in the end. Uvogin never really had much of a chance – Kurpika effectively channeled all of his Nen into creating a combat package that was ideally suited to take him down. Uvogin was really just about power – unbelievably massive amounts of power, but even in terms of physical speed he was no match for Kurapika. Heck, Kurapika even had the audacity to heal his arm after Uvo shattered it in the one real blow he landed. Kurapika is almost like a little Phantom Troupe rolled into one androgynous body – he has so many abilities that he can, as his class suggests, specialize his attacks to suit almost any eventuality. But none has the potency of the one he staked his very life on, Chain Jail.

I don’t have much to say about the way the fight ended except that it was one of the darkest and most depressing scenes I’ve watched in anime. Uvogin knew he was a dead man, and Kurpika went about methodically and slowly killing him. I can’t imagine Kurapika ever thought Uvo would rat out his colleagues (he didn’t), and it was truly gruesome watching what he became as he savaged his prisoner. Lacking anything like Mr. Blinky, he quietly buried Uvogin in a businesslike matter after killing him – which was possibly more disturbing than the killing itself. I’m not sure I see a way back from this road for Kurpika – not until his actions have rained down much greater despair on himself, at the very least.

There was one last gem of a moment in the episode, and that was very brief final scene featuring the other Phantom Troupers in their hideout. It was beautifully staged, but my favorite moment was the last close-up of Hisoka (his only appearance of the episode) – it was an absolutely bloody fantastic piece of animation and a tremendous way to end the episode. When we got around to the Hunterpedia (with Gon and Killua back to their normal skin tone) it was naturally Uvogin who was featured. Next week the story pivots, I sense in a significant way, with Gon, Killua and Leorio and their manhunt/moneymaking quest taking center stage.

Gon & Killua’s Hunterpedia: “Uvogin”

Guardian Enzo

58 comments

i

itsmeMARIO
September 16, 2012 at 6:03 am
Reply

I just watched this episode twice, back-to-back because it was so epic. I already knew what would happen because i have seen the 1999 version before, but the atmosphere of this episode was addictive. Best episode of the series so far for me.
A

Athos
September 16, 2012 at 6:41 am
Reply

…welp! Guess I'll be watching one more show every sunday.

I'm sorry, but that was brilliant. Really, the only thing the 1999 version could possibly have going for it would be Kurapika freaking out for a couple seconds right after killing Uvog. The whole epilogue of the fight was entirely focused on showing just how broken he was after killing someone for the first time. Here it was just *punch* *phone call* *shovel* *Ok where was I…*.

Not that I cared at all about that back then. It was all about the reveal and showcasing Kurapika's casual ungodliness. In that respect, I'm sorry, but there is no question about which one was better. Beautiful.
S

SlushiZ
September 16, 2012 at 7:02 am
Reply

AWESOME-just ridiculously awesome. I had to re watch the fight 3 times. I do wonder if Gon,Killua and Leorio will find out about it soon though. While it seems likely they'll STOP Kurapica it would be dam interesting if they helped instead, at least for a little while.
admin
September 16, 2012 at 7:27 am
Reply

The definition of heroes gets a little fuzzy in H X H, and there aren't a whole lot of easy answers to moral questions.
A

Anonymous
September 16, 2012 at 9:31 am
Reply

this is a great episode, it's obvious that MH put their best.

but the 1999 version is still much better. there was so much artistry in the entire fight *_____*

anyway enzo, you should really watch the 1999 series once 2011 is done with york shin. you're missing out on what makes hxh truly great
A

Anonymous
September 16, 2012 at 12:24 pm
Reply

NF O_o
A

Anonymous
September 16, 2012 at 10:32 am
Reply

lol Kurapika already prepared a pickaxe !!

HxH 2011 is cool but HxH 99 is a masterpiece !!

that's the best description for the two version…
A

Anonymous
September 16, 2012 at 11:58 am
Reply

Just curious Enzo, where does HxH rank in your 2012 anime list? For simplicity's sake, let's pretend that eps 1-47 aired this year.
admin
September 16, 2012 at 5:00 pm
Reply

Somewhere between 3 and 5, I'd guess. Probably 3. But I'd have to give it serious consideration to move even higher – it'd be close.
s

shareme
September 16, 2012 at 1:01 pm
Reply

A 1999 tard is here again with comments how hxh 1999 is a "masterpiece" without telling anything else WHY it's a "masterpiece" besides viewing it through nostalgia-filled glasses. Why am I not surprised? Everytime the 2011 version blows 1999 out of the water, they predictably creep out of their hiding place.

Haven't seen this episode yet as I'm waiting for my sis and I to see this together but judging how our schedules clash these days, we're probably marathoning episodes sometime in October.

Also, very great point on the teetering darkness Kurapika is in and will be throughout this arc. THIS Kurapika – the utterly ruthless Kurapika that MURDERED a man, who doesn't stand a chance at all in fighting him, in cold blood – is what I'm dying to see in a HxH anime adaptation. How far will Kurapika go for revenge? Far and beyond that he becomes what he hunts? What he abhors?

On that regard, the 1999 Kurapika version is very different from the manga and 2011 version. Whereas manga and 2011 Kurapika has no qualms killing Spiders for revenge, the 1999 Kurapika shows how "weak" his conviction is (which is the major reason why he's powerful) by showing reluctance AND remorse in killing Uvogin.
A

Anonymous
September 16, 2012 at 4:35 pm
Reply

I agree that the two versions of Kurapika are different. I do prefer the 1999 adaptation as many do who have seen the 1999 adpatation, but also I see there is also a split where some people prefer the 2011 interpretation of Kurapika. And that's fine.

But I saw no "weakness" in the 1999 version that you see. One can be determined to do something and still have remorse if they believe that "the ends justifiy the means". They know the consequences of their actions, but are still fully determined and convicted to carry through on their actions because they believe it will be for the greater good. See Code Geass/Death Note.

His doubts is what also makes him more human compared to this version, and convictions can still be very strong, it doesn't mean it can't waver from time to time. If his doubt happens, his strength diminishes at that moment which makes perfect sense.
s

shareme
September 16, 2012 at 5:22 pm
Reply

But I saw no "weakness" in the 1999 version that you see. One can be determined to do something and still have remorse if they believe that "the ends justifiy the means". They know the consequences of their actions, but are still fully determined and convicted to carry through on their actions because they believe it will be for the greater good.

You're talking about the cliche "tragic" hero trope and if anything, Hunter x Hunter has always try to turn the shounen cliche on its own head.

Besides, Kurapika didn't just decided to go after the Spiders because "it's for the greater good". Loss of innocence is Togashi's favorite theme to play around with and Kurapika losing that peaceful/no-killing side of him, steadily and surely transforming into someone who kills people because he can – the kind of people he hated – is more tragic.

His doubts is what also makes him more human compared to this version, and convictions can still be very strong, it doesn't mean it can't waver from time to time.

Revenge is ugly and a never ending cycle. People driven with revenge doesn't feel any pity at all to people who wronged them. If anything, they feel compelled to make them feel what they felt on that tragic event and make them suffer and regret for what they did to them.

That is what humanity have done and still do. The Pearl Harbor attack and the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki as a consequence of that attack comes to mind.

Him having doubts make him more human? I don't think so. This just shows that his conviction – his life oath – to get his revenge is not as strong as he claimed to be, if that is the case, and it gives doubt to why his nen is so strong if his conviction isn't when it specifically stated the correlation of nen and a person's psyche.

If his doubt happens, his strength diminishes at that moment which makes perfect sense.

I don't get what you mean by this. What moment did his strength diminishes in the fight that makes perfect sense?
A

Anonymous
September 16, 2012 at 6:36 pm
Reply

You're talking about the cliche "tragic" hero trope and if anything, Hunter x Hunter has always try to turn the shounen cliche on its own head.

Even if the so-called "tragic hero" is a trope it is no less outstanding in execution, no less valid, and has still made the 1999 adaptation of York Shin the favorite of many.

… Kurapika losing that peaceful/no-killing side of him, steadily and surely transforming into someone who kills people because he can – the kind of people he hated – is more tragic

What is tragic can be subjective, and being tragic doesn't mean it's better. The emotional struggles the 1999 Kurapika dealt with was still something that set it apart from other shows and made it stand out.

Revenge is ugly and a never ending cycle. People driven with revenge doesn't feel any pity at all to people who wronged them. If anything, they feel compelled to make them feel what they felt on that tragic event and make them suffer and regret for what they did to them.

That seems like a simplistic way to portray someone who is driven by revenge. What made the 1999 version great was that it wasn't that simple for Kurapika. He actually did have certain set of morals that conflicted with what he wanted to do. This wasn't a stereotypical character who only wanted revenge. That's what helped set 1999 version apart from other anime.

Him having doubts make him more human? I don't think so. This just shows that his conviction – his life oath – to get his revenge is not as strong as he claimed to be

Doubts do make him a more complex character as he has to struggle with his emotions *and* morals. The conflict between morals and emotions is not really apparent in this version. Without that conflict, things are more straight-forward…

And I think you're talking too much in absolutes. Why is it wrong to not be as strong as he claimed at time of oath? Is it wrong for someone's conviction to waver? Conviction is not binary in that someone has it or they don't as it can vary in degree. Nen was explained to be affected by emotion meaning it can vary depending on time of use as well. His oath was simply he not break it, not that it can't get weaker or stronger after the oath.

If his doubt happens, his strength diminishes at that moment which makes perfect sense.

It didn't during the fight. All I'm saying is Nen can vary in strength depending on his level of conviction at the time.
admin
September 16, 2012 at 6:57 pm
Reply

I don't get any feeling that Kurapika is thinking of the greater good when it comes to the Spiders. He wants revenge, plain and simple – blood for blood. He knows it deep-down, and he feels a sense of shame about it.
s

shareme
September 16, 2012 at 7:58 pm
Reply

@Anon

You're not getting it.

Kurapika's ABSOLUTION is his revenge. That is his SOLE goal for:
1) becoming a Blacklist Hunter (the type of Hunter he hates
2) learning Nen (from a master he doesn't like)
3) infiltrating a body-collector Mafia family (again, the type of people he hates)
4) threatening to kill a girl co-worker, that has nothing to do with the Spiders, if she didn't keep her mouth shut.

Revenge is his ONLY purpose and reason why he's willing to become and associate with people that he hated/disliked. At this point, Kurapika threw away his morals for the sake of his revenge.

He'd done things that he hated all for his revenge. He even put his life on the line for revenge's sake and you're telling me his drawing the line in killing someone who murdered his clan because of what? Why did he waver in killing Uvogin in the 1999 version? Because she's a girl in that version?

—

You don't understand nen do you? If Nen vary in strength depending on a person's level of conviction/determination, why did Gon didn't beat Hisoka? Gon is full of determination at that time.

Kurapika's Nen being so strong that it can take down a Spider DESPITE only learning nen for months against someone who knew it for years is THE PROOF of how strong his conviction is. As I've said before, by showing him wavering in killing Uvo, it UNDERMINE his conviction to take down the Spiders with his life on the line AND throws the Nen system out of the loop because, really? "Level of conviction" is just a another way of saying "power of friendship".
A

Anonymous
September 16, 2012 at 9:14 pm
Reply

Kurapika's ABSOLUTION is his revenge. That is his SOLE goal.

Not in my interpretation of Kurapika based on the 1999 version. The things you list only show that he is determined to do whatever it takes to accomplish his goal. That is, the ends justify the means. It doesn't conflict with what I'm saying.

Further, he has shown concern for the safety of his colleagues, the people at the auction, innocents when he questioned Ubo. Just by bringing up innocents (outside of his clan), shows that revenge for his clan isn't the only thing on his mind. He has also demonstrated his leadership by doing what he can to keep Neon and well-being for his other friends (Melody/Gon/Killua and co) by keeping them away from conflict as much as possible. Revenge isn't the sole thing he is concerned about. He could of used them as bait/fodder to achieve his goals, but he hasn't as their safety is up there with his quest for revenge

At this point, Kurapika threw away his morals for the sake of his revenge.

Not all of his morals. Only some. It's not all or nothing you know.

He'd done things that he hated all for his revenge. He even put his life on the line for revenge's sake and you're telling me his drawing the line in killing someone who murdered his clan because of what? Why did he waver in killing Uvogin in the 1999 version? Because she's a girl in that version?

Like I said his morals. Where did this girl talk come from? He was always a guy. You may have interpreted some scenes differently and believe he was a girl, but he was always a guy and it was obvious for me and many other viewers.

You don't understand nen do you? If Nen vary in strength depending on a person's level of conviction/determination, why did Gon didn't beat Hisoka? Gon is full of determination at that time.

Simple. There is a limit to what determination can do as with most things in HxH. It's not like some shounen where willpower/"power of friendship" can unleash infinite power which is why Gon didn't win. I believe the anime and manga has covered this that Nen can be affected by various things like mental stability (Kastro fight). In this version, I think they mentioned Gido's love for tops made his attacks stronger (which sounds odd but it is what it is), but the 2011 version did state that. The 1999 version also but in a less cheesy way. Are you saying that that is wrong?

Having a weakened conviction is not the same as having broken his oath. As for the oath, I've always interpreted it as to never use his power on anyone but the spiders, but if he does, he will lose his powers and die. If he uses his powers on a non-spider his own Nen will kill him and that was proof of his resolve at the time of Oath.

You're not getting it.

I can say the same for you. I'm not sure why you even want me to get it. I have my interpretation and nothing you have said changes anything.
A

Anonymous
September 17, 2012 at 1:45 am
Reply

Wavering conviction can negatively affect a Nen-user; the reason why it does not make sense that Kurapica can unleash Emperor Time, then immediately breaks down after killing Uvogin. Emotional state is important. Of course, except if Kurapica has another personality in 1999
A

Anonymous
September 16, 2012 at 2:49 pm
Reply

heh I think you forget the taste of the old one
I watched the 99 recently and without your "nostalgia-filled glasses"

I have no problem with this version,, and what's wrong with telling my opinion,,
the two version have different taste, the old version taste is better,, that's all
and go watch the episode before talking and making fun of other people opinion

man you forget everything,, kurapika is weak in 99 version ??
go rewatch episode 56 brother
K

Kamen Rider Kekkaishi
September 16, 2012 at 3:10 pm
Reply

Funny you say it's your opinon then make an objective statement on how "the old taste is better". Nice
A

Anonymous
September 16, 2012 at 3:34 pm
Reply

man you become a target of others when you bring the old version on the topic.. I regret publishing that comment,
listen brother, I meant by the taste, my feeling, and emotions, and my harmony with the show, that's all
these elements vary from person to person which mean "my opinion"
I don't care about animation or drawing or graphics ect…
it's all about the taste it gives you after finishing a show..
admin
September 16, 2012 at 5:01 pm
Reply

Let's keep is civil, Folks. Passions run high when the 1999 is compared to the 2011, and that's fine, but no need for name-calling as long as the OP is respectful.
A

Arabesque
September 16, 2012 at 4:20 pm
Reply

I have yet to watch the episode yet, but I read your write up anyway Enzo and I got to say that I'm hyped more than ever for this episode. Years back, this was the fight that made me fall in love completely with the '99 series for not only it's complexity but also for adding additional layers to not only Kurapika but also the Troupe … looking forward to it

Small comment
''I really worry for Kurapika – he seems very close to being lost to the dark side here. Who is he, really – the kind person who cooperated with the boys and Leorio to survive the Hunter exam and the loyal colleague, or the seething mass of rage that seeks to extract blood for blood? I don’t think he can be both, no matter how many conditions he puts on his Nen.''

I'm of the opinion that he is the former, even if there are some who think that he is the latter I just don't see it. To me, Kurapika always came across as a truly gentle and noble soul trying to bring justice to evil people who not only murdered his entire race, but also sold off their eyes as further insult without showing a hint of remorse in doing so. The thing is, in order to get justice, he must walk the path of the beasts to reach them, and while Kurapika as you had pointed out is more than able to ward off the dangers of the path and reach his opponents and defeat them, walking such a traitorous and dangerous path for so long has the tendency to make one forget how to get out of it.

I have more thoughts on the matter, but I think I'll save them after watching the episode (maybe I'll post them on AS for once) but for the time being, here is the quote that I think sums up what Togashi sensei is going for with Kurapika's story: ''He who fights with monsters might take care lest he thereby become a monster. And if you gaze for long into an abyss, the abyss gazes also into you.''

Kurapika's main weakness isn't one in ability, it's in his character being so pure (in the sense of being a noble and righteous person) that if even a little darkness is allowed, he will lose composure and in the worst case, be swallowed by his own hatred. It makes him fascinating to watch, but at the same time sad and heart wrenching.

PS: This is not about the episode, but about the comments above me that were attacking Anon for making a casual comment that wasn't even saying anything bad about the 2011 series, just saying that he liked the older one better.

As a fan of the manga, '99 series and now the '11 series for a few months as well, I am honestly dismayed to see this sort of behavior this late into the new series. A few weeks back I was telling my fellow '99 series fans to not be unreasonable fanatics and give the new series a shot and judge it on it's own merits, only for this week to see some of the new series fanatics jumping down someones throat for just saying he liked the older version better? I'm sorry to say, but this is disgraceful.

Look, I'm not saying that we should all play nice or be polite or anything of that sort, but is it too much to ask to be civil to each other, as fellow fans of this franchise and not try and tear into each other and attack someone for saying they like something we don't like? Even if you dislike either version for whatever reason, don't attack someone just for saying they like it. It's the same as when the manga and older anime fans try and limit themselves from spoiling it for the newer fans, this is a courtesy that we give to each other because at the end of the day we are all watching the same show and we think that it's worth watching and want others to enjoy it just like we had in the past.
s

shareme
September 16, 2012 at 8:01 pm
Reply

It's funny that you brought about how "pure" and "noble" Kurapika is and although the quote you mentioned:

"He who fights with monsters might take care lest he thereby become a monster. And if you gaze for long into an abyss, the abyss gazes also into you.''

makes sense in a way, I don't think that's what Togashi is aiming for Kurapika. One thing is, Kurapika is an avenger and becoming a monster for the sake of revenge comes with the territory. He is not fighting for the sake of justice or any "good intentions". He's hunting the Spider for pure selfish reasons.

If you read YYH, Kurapika's noble and pureness is reminisence of Sensui's "purity". Itsuki (Sensui's lover) made a disturbing comment about how fascinating it was to watch Sensui lose his purity and liken it to a sweet, innocent, virgin girl growing up to be a porn star. Likewise, Kurapika – a "If there's no reason, I don't want to fight" guy – is becoming "I will kill you because of reasons and because I can" guy.
A

Arabesque
September 17, 2012 at 6:04 am
Reply

''One thing is, Kurapika is an avenger and becoming a monster for the sake of revenge comes with the territory.''

After reading what many people in the fandom had to say over the years, I came to the conclusion long ago that there are two major schools of thought when it comes to Kurapika's character; He is either an avenger who had been darkened the moment his clan had been slaughtered and the best he can do about it is to show restraint on his dark emotions (i.e. chaining himself as his nen master pointed out) and try to direct his hatred into the destruction of all those involved in the massacre or (and this is where I'm squarely at) that Kurapika is a gentle, kind and noble soul who had something truly evil happen to his life and he decided to devote his life to punishing the people who had killed his clan by embarking on a dark path, and that the further he goes on that path the more and more it corrupts him with the danger being that he will end up losing his way and will not be able to turn back.

I won't pretend to know what Togashi sensei has in store for Kurapika, the best we both could say after all about is what we think, and I respect what others think about Kurapika's character. However, for me it's quite clear that Kurapika is becoming a monster against his will and better judgment is getting more clouded due to the path he is leading.

'' He is not fighting for the sake of justice or any "good intentions"''

Didn't even mention anything about Kurapika doing what he is doing for any sort of "good intentions", so I'm not sure why you included that. As for justice, I think it is pretty telling back in episode 39 when he described his Nen chains as being used to ''bind evil down to Hell''. You could argue that it's in actuality closer to vengeance, but in this case and knowing what happened to his clan, it still doesn't make a difference. Kurapika wants to enact judgment to these people who had slaughtered and sold off the eyes of his kin, and I think he has the right to that in this world.

''If you read YYH, Kurapika's noble and pureness is reminisence of Sensui's "purity"''

Having read YYH, I get where you are coming from, but even then you'd be stretching that analogy, considering you are just taking a similar element the two character share while ignoring the context of their situations and their motivations, history and personalities as well as the eventual result t Sensui's story.

Without going into much spoilers, Sensui's purity had been the result of his selection as an Agent from an early age, and how he continued to believe in the black and white and naive world view he held since he was a kid well into adulthood, until it eventually came crashing down when he faced the actual reality of the situation, and with the help of Itsuki influence, made him fall into the dark side.

Needless to say, even if he shares some similarities with him, Kurapika is different, since he already knowns what sort of world he is living in, and the true nature and character of the people he is going to deal with as a Hunter.
K

Kamen Rider Kekkaishi
September 16, 2012 at 4:59 pm
Reply

I agree but It doesn't help when people make a point to bring the 1999 anime into a discussion. Like a comment saying "This is cool but Enzo you should really watch the masterpiece 99 anime" Really there is no point. Honestly the anime is more than a decade old get over it and just enjoy Hunter x Hunter.
M

Murkel
September 16, 2012 at 5:57 pm
Reply

So after watching this episode (and loving it) and hearing yet again how the old series is so much better, I decided to check the '99 version of this episode.

I can honestly say there isn't a single thing in that episode I like better than the '11 version. The pace was much faster (due to the fight being covered in only half the time, making it feel pretty rushed), the voice acting didn't feel as polished (nor fitting, although I'm probably just used to the '11 voices), the soundtrach I've heard so much praise of didn't leave much of an impression, and it overall seemed to lack a bit of impact (partly due to how fast everything happened, especially Uvogin's death, but also because I feel the '11 version made a better use of silences, its soundtrack and characters' expressions). And the '11 also has some really neat visual tricks the '99 version lacked, like those cool angles, the slow motion, the black-and-white shots, etc.

To be honest, the only thing I didn't miss was the narrator (and to a lesser extent, the naming of every single skill) which I really feel the '11 series could to without.

I'm not going to comment on the portrayal of the characters since I haven't read the manga nor have I watched enough of the '99 series.

Anyway, I'm not saying the '99 series is bad or that fans of that version are wrong. I'm aware just picking one episode of the old version isn't enough to make a fair comparison, and that I'm biased towards the '11 series no matter how objective I try to be. I'm just writing this comment for those who, like me, are/were afraid they are missing something from not watching the old version. If you are one of those, you can rest easy.
M

Murkel
September 16, 2012 at 6:02 pm
Reply

The last two links are obviously wrong but you can probably tell which shots I'm referring to. Blame copy and paste.
A

Anonymous
September 17, 2012 at 12:16 am
Reply

really? you're not even going to mention how much better the ost was in the old version?

anyway what you've done is not a fair comparison at all. so i don't see where you're getting the moral high ground in telling others who haven't seen 1999 to "rest easy"
K

Kaz
September 17, 2012 at 2:49 pm
Reply

Hmm… I guess it's because you watched the 2011 version first and then the 99 version? It seems to make an effect when you watch something then watch another version of that same story/animation. It usually happens to me, so I try my best to really think of it as a different one or a separate thing. for example, since I watched the 99 version first, I kinda think the character designs of the old OVA series version was better than the 2011 version, especially Kurapica's, yet i could also say that the new one has great fight scenes as well and occasional cool character designs, esp. if it's the same team that did the epic episode 35. (the first half of Gon vs. Hisoka fight)

Anyway, so far, I'm really enjoying this new one and I'm hoping they continue with this epic animation. Next expectations would be the awesome 2-on-1 fight… I won't spoil but fans of the original one and the manga would know what I mean, I guess. 🙂

Can't wait for the next episodes! ^^,
A

Anonymous
September 16, 2012 at 6:04 pm
Reply

The 1999 Kurpaika disappointed me when i read the manga. I didn't like the fact that he fell to his knees and grabbed his face. That was a big turn off. He knew from the get go what he was getting into, and the only reason Kurpaika questioned Uvo was because he wanted to see if he was a person that should be killed. Apparently he was. Kurapika was very human when he was torturing Uvo. Kurapika even stated how can you cause blood and pain. Kurapika was disgusted by what he was doing but in the end he had to do what he had to do. Thank you 2011 for actually portraying characters correctly and putting his flashback at the appropriate spot.
admin
September 16, 2012 at 6:59 pm
Reply

Considering that the Nippon version made Kurapika a girl, it isn't really that surprising that there would be other major changes in the character, is it? I mean, you could hardly get a more fundamental change than that.
A

Anonymous
September 16, 2012 at 7:10 pm
Reply

"Nippon version made Kurapika a girl"

I don't know where you heard that, but it's not the case. I've watched the old series more than a few times and there's never a moment when he's refereed to as a girl, or even hinted that he's one.
admin
September 16, 2012 at 7:22 pm
Reply

TBH, I'd thought that was generally accepted, but I haven't watched it so perhaps that's an incorrect impression.
A

Anonymous
September 16, 2012 at 7:36 pm
Reply

Actually Kurapika came off as a girl big time. There was a fillers during the hunter exam that implied that he was a girl. One made him seem like he had boobs. Another time was Leorio coming out the shower naked and all of a sudden Kurpaika gets embarrassed and hits leorio for being naked. Another scene was Kurapika had his legs open than all of a sudded he closed them in embarassemt because Gon or someone was looking.

If you watch the 1999 anime you'll totatlly get a different feel from all the characters. The way you analyze these episodes you'll be suprised how much different the 1999 anime portrayed the manga or the characters in general. Some of the filler tryed to come off as cannon which was annoying.
A

Anonymous
September 16, 2012 at 7:41 pm
Reply

Heh no they didn't make him a girl, though he was portrayed more feminine (and got shy in various incidents with Leorio) which made a some people think he was a girl. I always find that funny. There is also lots of disturbing fanart of Kurapica because of that.
A

Anonymous
September 16, 2012 at 8:06 pm
Reply

Yeah being portrayed feminine with a feminine voice actor makes the character seem like a girl. Thats what the 1999 anime did. Why would the 1999 director imply things that were never even implied in the manga. He did it because he wanted to portray a feminine like protagonist. That alone implies that the 1999 director wanted to portray the characters and scenes the way he wanted it and not how Togashi had it.

The only times the 1999 anime shined when it was following the manga. Even that was a rarity. The 1999 anime choose to change the dialouge and the way the characters went about of things. Gon seemed like the helpless character that needed Killua. When in actuality Killua needed Gon just as much.

Hey Enzo you should go to mangahelpers.com

Theres is a really cool guy in there that takes his time to compare the manga/1999/2011 all at once. You'll see the differences of what I'm talking about. Plus it's interesting all within itself.
A

Anonymous
September 16, 2012 at 8:27 pm
Reply

"Gon seemed like the helpless character that needed Killua. When in actuality Killua needed Gon just as much."

I never got that impression. If anything, it was Killua's need for Gon what was a little more emphasized in that version.
A

Anonymous
September 16, 2012 at 9:06 pm
Reply

Of course you didn't. Watching the 1999 anime is a work of art with no ambiguities what so ever.

All i can say is i got all those impressions from the 1999. It ultimately got me into HxH but after reading the manga i was disappointed with the older anime. Took everything and made the story his own. I'm a guy who like faithfulness and the 1999 severely lacks it.
A

Anonymous
September 17, 2012 at 12:13 am
Reply

no, nippon didn't make the 1999 series a girl. seriously enzo, stop listening to those 2011 fans. they're biased as fuck. worse than NF.
admin
September 17, 2012 at 1:14 am
Reply

Whatever. I've heard fans of the '99 say that too, which is why I thought it was more or less accepted.

I'll say this much – I've seen clips where it sure as heck looks as if he has oppai…
A

Anonymous
September 17, 2012 at 1:50 am
Reply

^yes, there were some strange scenes with kurapica in the old anime. like the episode where he (she? :P) got freaked-out upon seeing leorio's manhood and "that" conversation in episode 62. but these happened a few times, mostly in the beginning; most of the time NA portrayed kurapica as the androgynous-looking fellow that he is. many 1999 fans have made jokes about this, but in the end we ALL know kurapica is a guy.

anyway, i guess what made me respond to you is how you're siding with 2011 fans with their silly "1999 sucks because it did not follow the manga" claims to the point that you said that "kurapica is a girl in NA", a claim that is completely baseless. you're already biased against the 1999 without even having seen it. it shows what kind of comments you are listening to and filtering-out.

and wait… you've seen clips? i thought you said you're avoiding 1999 so that you won't be biased against 2011?
admin
September 17, 2012 at 2:54 am
Reply

It's impossible to totally avoid clips and screencaps for a series as famous as this one that's been floating around for 12 years.
A

Anonymous
September 17, 2012 at 8:38 pm
Reply

I never even said the 1999 anime sucks. I just said it lacks faithfulness. It's good but it's not something to be considered an end all be all anime adaptation. I'm glad HxH is back. 2011 anime is doing HxH justice in general. The more fandom the better.
H

HybridBloodsZak
September 16, 2012 at 7:02 pm
Reply

I've already given up in trying to "convince" people to not argue whether one series is better or the other. They'll either like one or the other more and even if your argument is better, the other poster still won't accept it. At least once we get to the Chimera Ants Arc, all of these comparisons will stop.

Were people like this too when FMA: Brotherhood aired before it reached material past the first series? I marathoned it a month after the series finished.

For the episode itself, I loved how Madhouse channeled Death Note in the execution of Uvogin. I'm pretty sure L's death had the same dramatic music also haha. Also, Kurapika torturing Uvogin was MORE brutal than the manga surprisingly thanks to the cinematography director(blood spewing, animation). I personally like this version better for those and other reasons.
A

Anonymous
September 16, 2012 at 7:13 pm
Reply

Liking something is subjective so there's no point in arguing about it to being with. I personally liked the old version better, but I'm not going to try convince others to see things the same way as I do.
A

Anonymous
September 16, 2012 at 7:38 pm
Reply

I personelly believe the manga is better. The 2011 actually follows the manga, so it makes it better in my opinion.
A

Anonymous
September 16, 2012 at 8:08 pm
Reply

This was seriously one of the best episodes so far. The animation, the black, white, and red contrast when Uvo dies, and even the music! Also, I was just stunned by Kurapika's brutality. I knew there was some sort of torture scene but seriously, in this version they extended it and made it bloodier and more excruciating than I imagined. And then after Kurapika murders him in cold-blood, you totally get the sense that he feels absolutely no guilt, no remorse, and no regret. And on the other hand, he's lost a part of himself (dare I say his humanity) that he can't get back. His dead, emotionless eyes as he buries Uvo really illustrated this fact.

I felt horrible for both characters in this episode.Poor Uvo was the victim in a scenario where he viewed himself as the victor. Of course, when Uvo discovers this, he is powerless and completely vulnerable. But, even in the midst of being tortured to death, he still had the strength and honor to not sell out his comrades. ;__; The expression he makes just before he dies always gets to me (watched this episode 3 times, going for more). R.I.P. Uvogin…

On the other hand, we have Kurapika, who is so infested with rage and hatred that he exchanges his soul for his revenge. He doesn't care about the fact that he is left vulnerable in situations where he is not fighting a Spider. Nor does he care that he has become the kind of person he sought to eliminate.

However, as he's torturing Uvo, his mind is in total chaos. He hates the sensation of blood on his hands and the sensation of torturing someone helpless. And when he cries out to Uvo, demanding how he could murder hundreds in cold-blood without any emotion, you can tell that he is desperate to hear something that makes sense. It's almost as though he's secretly hoping for some miraculous answer that will automatically sort out the chaos in his heart and prevent him from committing his first murder. But there is obviously no such answer, and he knows that (he’s probably relieved about that too because it justifies his actions… <_<). So when he is given an unsatisfactory answer, he is driven over the edge and he murders Uvo.

As you have already mentioned, Enzo, this was a dark and depressing episode. The highlight of this episode, to me, wasn't the fight execution or quality (though it was certainly fantastic). Instead, it was the portrayal of Kurapika and Uvogin, and Madhouse really delivered.

On a separate note, I can relate to the anonymous commentor who thought that the 1999 version was better (though this isn’t entirely my opinion). Although I think that some parts were rushed, the overall atmosphere of the 1999 episode felt much more grim and desolate (especially when you see Kurapika saying a solemn prayer for all his murdered comrades before the fight begins), and Kurapika's characterization was a lot more human and sympathetic, making the whole ordeal much more tragic than horrific. In the 1999 version, after he murders Uvo, Kurapika collapses and falls to his knees in complete horrror of what he's done. As he walks away, he stares at the moon for a sense of reassurance and peace. Here, you really feel that Kurapika grieves over the death of his clan and over the fact that he has to resort to murder in order to fulfill his revenge.

Not to say that the 2011 version didn’t portray this but instead, it painted a more inhumane picture of Kurapika, which is effectively shocking and horrifying but also remarkably twisted, because this it shows that even the kind-hearted Kurapika is capable of shutting off his emotions and committing cold-hearted murder.

All-in-all, this episode was extremely well-done and I am looking forward to future events!
A

Anonymous
September 18, 2012 at 1:12 am
Reply

Nice (and respectful) post about the differences in the 1999 and 2011 versions of Kurapika and the mood and atmosphere differences between the two versions.

And as a fan of the 1999 version, the little things you mentioned were indeed the things I really liked (e.g. the little things like the prayers, the short flashbacks from his teacher to stop his quest for revenge before it's too late to turn back, staring at the moon for reassurance and peace, etc). Those little things in the 1999 version added so much just like the Hisoka bit at the end of the 2011 version.

While the 1999 version is undoubtedly my favorite, I pretty much agree with everything you said and that this was a well-done episode for what it was trying to convey.
A

Anonymous
September 18, 2012 at 4:51 am
Reply

One more thing of note is the burial of Uvo. Both scenes have pretty big impact but for completely opposite reasons.

In the 1999 version, it implies Kurapika being considerate even for a sworn enemy (which seems to make sense for the noble soul he seems to be). He could have left Uvo's body to rot and for the crows to fed or dismembered it in unfathomable ways, but he did the decent thing and gave him a proper burial. He got his revenge on that spider, no need to do anything more to Uvo after his death.

It can be argued he simply wanted to hide and dispose of the body, but if that were the case, he could have desecrated and destroyed the body into unrecognizable pieces. Him showing some consideration to a dead and extremely hated enemy left a pretty big impact – he was a noble soul through and through, abeit one on a path of revenge.

His expression showing sadness, and the music also made the scene pretty sorrowful and tragic even though he got his first successful kill on his quest for justice and revenge. Him shaken and trying to cope with his first kill on his quest for revenge was also very striking — but he knew that he had to continue if he wanted to deliver the justice he wanted on the spiders.

In the 2011 version, Kurapika pretty much buried Uvo with a blank face without any concern, remorse, or sadness. Uvo meant nothing to him even though it was the first spider he killed. And that was it. Kurapika being so unnaturally cold with no remorse/sadness was pretty striking but different.
A

Anonymous
September 16, 2012 at 8:51 pm
Reply

Next episode should fulfill all of your Gon and Killua needs Enzo 😛 (I don't think Kurapika will be in the next episode). It will be interesting to see the kids living in an adult world.
A

Agustín
September 17, 2012 at 1:27 am
Reply

In my opinion, the best of this arc is yet to come. This is a cool fight, but just it.

Until now it was just fights and introduction of the characters.

But now is time for "Capture, Requiem and Closure". That's when all the histories going on in this city become one.
A

Anonymous
September 17, 2012 at 9:22 am
Reply

Well this certainly was one of the high points for Kurapica, and thus is a pretty important event in the arc. I see it as the "point of no return". Sure the conflict still haven't escalated and the climax has yet to come. Imo it is all part of what makes this narrative so great.
A

Anonymous
September 17, 2012 at 2:43 am
Reply

Be very careful leaving any kind of a spoiler. GE is very quick on the delete button. I notice a bunch of yesterday's posts are gone. They must have had opinions different then GE.
admin
September 17, 2012 at 2:51 am
Reply

I deleted one post from yesterday, and it was for a spoiler. Don't let them stop you from making stuff up under the cover of "anonymous", though.
A

Anonymous
September 17, 2012 at 8:03 am
Reply

lol
c

clarisajeane
September 17, 2012 at 9:32 am
Reply

this episode… it made me cry…. T_T
tears of joy I guess..
U

Ulisses
September 18, 2012 at 12:28 am
Reply

Amazing episode. Easily the best one yet.

The reason 1999 fans are so persistent in defending "their" version of this episode is because Kurapika vs Uvogin was the best part of that series. Since 2011 is probably going to adapt far more material, the 1999 fans can't "let" 2011 win here, since it is only going to get better from now on.

That said, i actually consider 1999 to be better than the manga. Some parts, including original content, were simply brilliant and remarkeable. In terms of shock value, 1999 is way ahead of either the manga or the remake.

2011's biggest quality is in its composition as a whole. Those little details that enchance the experience are what make the difference in this version. A great example would be Hisoka's look at the end of the episode. It was what? 1 second? And yet, it expressed so many things that i could write an entire blog post about it.
A

Anonymous
September 18, 2012 at 11:56 pm
Reply

Disagree the 1999 anime was shameful compared to the manga.

Guardian Enzo

Related posts

58 comments

itsmeMARIO

Athos

SlushiZ

admin

Anonymous

Anonymous

Anonymous

Anonymous

admin

shareme

Anonymous

shareme

Anonymous

admin

shareme

Anonymous

Anonymous

Anonymous

Kamen Rider Kekkaishi

Anonymous

admin

Arabesque

shareme

Arabesque

Kamen Rider Kekkaishi

Murkel

Murkel

Anonymous

Kaz

Anonymous

admin

Anonymous

admin

Anonymous

Anonymous

Anonymous

Anonymous

Anonymous

Anonymous

admin

Anonymous

admin

Anonymous

HybridBloodsZak

Anonymous

Anonymous

Anonymous

Anonymous

Anonymous

Anonymous

Agustín

Anonymous

Anonymous

admin

Anonymous

clarisajeane

Ulisses

Anonymous

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply