Well, I finally sat down and watched the last episode of Code Geass a few nights ago. Better late than never I guess. Obviously that wasn’t the actual ending of the series, since episodes 24 and 25 will air in the summer, and I think a new season will begin sometime next year. But anyway, what started off as a pretty typical war/mecha series that was a bit too complex and fast-paced in the beginning, turned into a very good take on the genre, and the series has since established enough unique elements to make it stand out among the fall ’06 series’.
For those of you who read my first impressions review of Code Geass know that my main issue with the series, in the first few episodes at least, was that it introduces too much information too fast, from all the Brittania politicians and military, to the Knightmares, the Elevens, the Geass, Lelouch’s classmates, the Order of the Black Knights, etc,. All this stuff was thrown at you very quickly with no real focus on any one thing. So all this stuff to think about and keep track of makes the series a bit difficult to follow in the early episodes. It could also be that I’m just slow too ^^ But truthfully, I was never very good at following and remembering all the complicated politics, government activity, and military talk in mecha series. Even though I love Gundam Seed and Eureka 7, I couldn’t understand much of the above mentioned aspects in them. But I loved the series’ because of the other aspects, such as the emotion and drama, the universal messages, and the well-developed and memorable characters. The only reason I can follow Evangelion pretty well is because I’ve watched the series a million times and actually made attempts at studying it and reading about it. But as for Code Geass, even though I have trouble following all the social/political details, the series has other great aspects too.
One thing that makes Code Geass stand out is that it has a very unique protagonist in Lelouch. One could argue if he even is the protagonist. Although pretty much all anime main characters are shown to be flawed in some part of their personality, 99% of them are also shown to have a self-sacrificing, emotional, caring, compassionate, not-wanting-to-harm-the-innocent side to them too. What’s interesting about Lelouch/Zero is that, after watching him for 23 episodes, it’s pretty easy to have doubts as to whether he’s a “good guy”. I’m sure most anyone who’s watched all of Code Geass so far would agree that he’s obsessive, head-strong, arrogant, and maybe even ego-centric. Unlike the typical selfless, good-hearted main characters, Zero is out to destroy anyone who tries to stop the Order of the Black Knights – he kills people left and right without showing any emotion, he believes his way of sacrificing a few in order to restore the world as a whole to be just, and he refuses to accept Suzaku’s or anyone else’s beliefs. And in episode 23, when he loses control of his Geass, forcing Euphie to kill all the Japanese, he kills her…someone he once cared about and who wasn’t at fault for her actions. Whether he was just in doing that could be endlessly debated. Although Lelouch’s main desire to make the world a peaceful place seems good, it’s questionable as to whether his methods and beliefs are. Though he does have a soft side in his relationships with Nunnally and Shirley for example, when he’s out on the battlefield as Zero and he dominantly shouts out orders, proclaims his ideals without any hesitance, and obsesses over his conquest, almost makes him seem a bit villainous at times, similar to Light from Death Note. Having an anti-hero protagonist like Lelouch who has more of a dark-side than a good-side definitely helps set the stage for an intense series.
Besides Lelouch, Code Geass has other good characters. Although C.C. seems like a sort of cold spectator, watching Zero’s actions from the sidelines without showing any sympathy or emotion towards the war going on, it’s obvious that she cares about Lelouch at least a little bit. Suzaku stands firm in his ideals although they contrast with Zero’s, and his virtuous personality makes him seem more like the protagonist than Lelouch. And like the Zaft members from Gundam Seed, although Brittania is made out to be the antagonistic side, they’re not all entirely evil. There’s no “black and white heroes and villains,” but rather good and bad mixed in among both the Elevens, the Order of the Black Knights, and Brittania. For example, although Cornelia appears ruthless in her battles against the Black Knights, she obviously loves her sister Euphemia dearly. Having a series that revolves around a war in which neither side is the true instigator, but each is just struggling to live on and protect their loved ones, makes it seem all the more realistic.
As I mentioned before, I’m pretty pathetic when it comes to following all the political, governmental, and military stuff in mecha anime. But even if I can’t understand all of it, it always impresses me how anime creators are able to come up with all the people, places, events, and other details of their alternate worlds. But thankfully Code Geass has other aspects besides these that make it appealing to me. I think the first episode that really got me into the series was episode 13, the one where Lelouch uses his Geass to erase Shirley’s memories. The drama and emotional level was pretty high in that ep, as it was in a few other memorable episodes such as 16 (“Captured Nunnally”), 18 (“Orders to Kururugi Suzaku”), and of course the last episode, 23. I don’t mind the episodes with a lot of mecha/military combat, but it’s the character relationship episodes like these that really bring the intimacy and humanity to the series.
And speaking of emotion and the last episode…wow, of all the characters, I was totally not expecting Euphie to die. It’s usually the quiet and/or noble, self-sacrificing characters that die, not the cutesy young girls. The part where she was unknowingly gunning down all the Japanese, her dying scene in the hospital with Suzaku, Lelouch’s conflicting feelings for her, Suzaku becoming filled with hatred over her death…it’s been a while since I’ve seen such good drama as in episode 23 of Code Geass. It took a while, but once we got past all the complicated introductions to its futuristic world, the series is definitely turning out to be another mecha masterpiece.
Anyway, it’ll be a while before episodes 24 and 25 are released. And if I’m not mistaken, a second season of Code Geass is scheduled to air later on too. I doubt two more episodes could wrap the whole series up, so a new season seems likely. One subplot I’m still confused about (which will probably be explained in later episodes) is about C.C., and now a sudden new character, V.V. Who/what are they exactly? Where did they come from and how/why did they get the power to bestow Geass on someone? There are other things in the series I’m not too clear about either, but I’m sure I’ll get my answers when I watch the rest of the episodes ^_^
On Lelouch killing Euphie, I look at it as mercy killing. If she ever manages to overcome the order Lelouch gave, she wouldn’t remember anything she did. However, everybody will know her as the one who orders the massacre. her public life is pretty much destroyed and she will eventually finds out what she did. I can’t imagine what kind of life she will lead at that time, knowing that she somehow orders a massacre without having a memory of it. Her ideal and the reality she created is in conflict and I don’t think there’s anyway she can resolve it. Lelouch had killed her pretty much when his geass activated and he failed to stop Euphie from executing his order.
You’re totally right, ryuuu. I never really thought about it like that. If Euphie was able to recover from the effects of the Geass, she would eventually find out what she did, and I can’t imagine what kind of life she would lead after that. The Japanese would never forgive her and I doubt she would ever be able to forgive herself. It’s really tragic, but killing her was probably the kindest thing to do. I still think Lelouch could’ve been a little more hesitant and/or emotional about doing it, but that’s our anti-hero for ya =P
call me ebil but i support Lelouch’s actions.. ryu ish right its called mercy killing just like what CC did to mao. i also believe that lelouch would actually joined euphie if only he hasnt lost control of his geass :( and i think euphie ish actually death hmm idk hope she’s not death she looks so kind and pretty :D
Hell yeah, you guys are so right. Lelouch is a great character…ok..he can get a bit too excited at times…and kill things, but his goal i guess is just. (though he is heading towards hitlerism..).
one character that I despise however is Suzaku. his character is kinda like Kira in Gundam seed-he does everything in the name of justice..yet like everyone else…he kills. His just a hypocrite..he killed his own father damn it. Just an overall irritating character.
The fun thing about episode 22 and 23 is that Euphemia makes a new home where Brittanians and Japanese can live together.
But suddenly everything goes wrong, More hatred between the countries, Nina who wants to avenge Euphemia (was she building a knightmare frame or something?), an angry Suzaku and the uncontrollable Geass, so many things changed in those two episodes, it was shocking, but still… cool =P
Can’t wait for new episodes
For all I know, this could just be actually Gundam SEED Destiny, renamed and redrawn as another anime show.
One aspect of the story flow that I find it hard to digest is the sudden transformation and degeneration of Euphemia, because it’s all too sudden within just 2 episodes (suddenly all the long-winded action sequences in DBZ/Bleach/One Piece I’ve been acquainted to seemed normal now). Other bloggers complained/supported of the wicked turn of events, and to me, Code Geass is becoming more and more similar to GSD, in terms of where the story goes.
For all I care, though, it was a exhilirating 23 episodes. Nevermind the complex terms and story plots, this one is very much entertaining. Perhaps I might even consider watching it all over again.
Code Geass is progressing through the story much faster than GSD, thats one reason why i like Code Geass better. another reason would be how contridicting everyone is: euphemia wanted the fight to stop, that could of resolve by her telling the world about zero (who she knew alrdy), suzaku who want world peace but continues to kill, C.C who want a contract to be fulfull and doesnt do anything major about it , and there Lulouch(ZERO) he’s like a ideaistical prince who want a perfect world for him and his sister to live in. i think he want to be king not because of his bloodline but because of his superior power thats he has in … power….. somehow everything should make sense in the end ! i love this anime =D everybody have to wacth this at LEAST once
In so far, CG is a pretty fast paced anime, kudos to you mr review man for all the emotional comments (im not pretty good at those aspects ^_^) ryuuu is totally right about lulu killing euphie,, how will she live after all the things that have gotten way freakin wrong… the one thing that somehow makes this anime stand out from other mecha anime is not that it focuses more on the abilities of the Knightmare pilots (as shown in Suzaku and Kallen) but the overall strategy of the skirmishes. Lelouch is a genius strategist, kinda cold blooded though as he sacrifices some of his men for his goal…
great series, i can comprehend fast series and i like it that way, i hate dragging series, especially those that reach 100+ !! @_@ This series is truly a masterpiece eventhough the characters are drawn in CLAMP animation, Lelouch’s/ZERO’s personality is one which will be remembered in the future. I sure hope this series would be one of the greatest animes ever made!!
KyogerX, you say “mr review man” but I’m actually a girl ^^ LOL, don’t worry about it, thanks for the nice comment anyway!
I think what also sets this series apart is the fact that it’s also a school drama in the sidelines…sure, the fighting and double identities and suspicion towards other characters is what causes the drama but…you gotta love that random episode they had when Lulu’s helmet was stolen by that cat. Remember his girly gasp when he saw the cat run away? *giggles* oh yeah, and when Lulu was tied to a chair so that the other council members could dress him up as a cat…he should dress as a cat instead of in a cape when he’s Zero lol. That would be so funny.
Also, I agree with KyogerX that it’s great to have an anti-hero as the main character – Lelouch will never be forgotten. Plus, he’s hot. Kudos to Clamp for his awesome design!
And this was a great review! I wonder why episodes 24 and 25 are released later on though? It’s unusual for a series to postpone releasing the final two episodes of a series.
And I have to shout out to crunchyroll.com, without them I would never have been able to watch Code Geass – I’m from Scotland where it’s not even released, i just read about it in the only manga and anime magasine in the UK in an article about series to watch for from Japan and…I fell in love with Lelouch immediately.
Suzaku really annoys me.
Lol.
I just loved the way they set up the happy Britano-Japanese future that could spring from the administarative zone but then the writers throw a massive blood-covered spanner in the works.
Beautiful >
Oh…love code geass very much…..Luluxiu is so cool, looks like a person full of power. Although Suzaku is kind, but sometimes, he looks weak……Anyway, i’m still confused with the ending of the anime…. I am looking forward to the next episode/movie…..
I will never forget the scene in the first episode when he ordered all of the Brittanian Soldiers to die……….
*the commander laughs*”YIS,YOUR HIGHNESTH!!!”…**gunshots**…*blood splatters*
About the remorse thing, if you didn’t notice it the first time around, when he was giving the order to kill Euphie from his black Knightmare, he was crying.
I completly agree with Tom about Suzaku. Lelouch tries to change the world and what does Suzaku?! He kills people as if it is okay for him. It’s so sad and cruel for him that Euphie died but she is dead!! Even if Suzaku kills Lelouch she won’t come back to life. Suzaku should just vanish, he is such a hindrance to Lelouch. What right does he have to say something like that to Lelouch (ep25 at the end) who the heck made him god??!!
Well, from what I have written you can see that I’m Lelouch-fan. Unfortunately it is unlikely that Suzaku will die-.-
Lelouch is the man, they better not kill him. Is about time an antagonist hero win the fight. I just don’t like this Suzaku’s guts. He is ruining the rise of the united state of Japan. He betray his home.
i’ve watched eps 24 & 25 (on anime6.com) and i’m itching for the next season! I hope your wrong lelouch-fan, suzaku is so ANNOYING he is just pathetic. as Mao said in episode 16, Suzaku hopes to be killed. Thats why he’s always putting himself in danger, why doesn’t he just kill himself and put an end to his despair?!
the second season of code geass is now supposedly coming out in october at some point. Suzaku must die!
wtf, a protagonist can be good or bad, it’s just a main character of a story. Remember Macbeth?? Macbeth was the protagonist of the story regardless that he was GOOD or BAD, he was just himself, like his human-self: ambitious, and manipulative. The only difference is that a protagonist and the antagonist are just two sides against their ideas. But remember, no one is truly bad or good, it’s what thinking that makes us feel that way (William Shakespeare). Everyone has their views and their own perspectives. So before you criticize about your neighbour’s roof being full of snow, you should take care of your own damn door steps that’s full of snow. Basically, you shouldn’t criticize, condemn, or complain about other people, because eventually, it’ll build up as futile argument, and we all know how arguments end up… It’s not beneficial for anyone to think that way. Because everyone has their reasons. “Even serial murderers, it’s not because they want to kill people, it was because they were defending themselves” (Carnegie, 4).
It’s true, that criticism is the way of understanding and showing how you feel about your own opinions regardless of what others think. But criticism is futile because it puts a person on the defensive and usually makes one strive to justify oneself. Criticism is also dangerous, because it wounds a person’s precious pride, hurts ones sense of importance, and arouses resentment. Like what you did for me, because what you said, made others think that a protagonist are supposed to be good guys rather than just the one-way-or-the-other.
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Regardless, I believe that Code Geass is one outstanding anime series of 2007, not just the Mecha series of 2007, or the new Gundam Seed-wannabe, but a stand for itself, as the anime series of 2007. What brilliance of the drama, the action, and the inquisitive plot.
I think everyone contemplates into the story and melts into the plot very well. Everything is well done, including the animation. The art directing is unique and has its own characteristics/trademarks in the media for future reference. The characters of the story are insightfully planned out and each and every single character, regardless how minor the role is, has an important role in their part (everyone has a sort of self-importance).
So, please, don’t say Suzaku must die, because he’s just doing his job, lol. I do believe that he’s going to be conflicting in Lelouch’s plans and his idea world and for the sake of the Japanese people. But I guess that’s why it makes the story so intense and strong in feeling. I mean, look at yourselves, you guys feel so strong about it that you want a fictional character to die. What do I think he should do? Really, if I were him, I wouldn’t listen to any reason from the guy who killed my loved one. No one would. So I would do what he would exactly do, try to kill my best friend that I had for 7 years and still ongoing and end this vicious cycle. I guess it’s all about trying or attempting to do it that makes it so entertaining, because just committing it will end the matters too short and it’d become too boring. Suzaku is the raison d’etre for the dramatic moments with Lelouch and everything. Oh, the intensity!!
Now I can’t possibly wait for Code Geass Season 2!! I mean, I’ve been trying to get over my obsession with the manga, After School Nightmare series by watching this obsessive series, but now it’s end for me too soon, I don’t know what to do…
Overall, this anime is da BOMB!!
This show is friggin awsome from the start. Strategies flying out at every turn and event….i say this show tops GSD by a long shot…though it does have the same ring to it..story wise i mean…but its way better…not so emo characters here and Lelouch….he is the best character i have seen so far….well controlled emotions and plays the role of Zero like a second skin.Compared to Mao, Lelouch will be a better “double-eyed-geass” user. that will make him a even more deadly person with his mental capabilities. Suzaku…is a nother version of Kira Yamato…just using a lame-o excuse for his actions. So like the others…i agree that Lulouch must live and Suzaku must die. But i will like to stress that the King himself has some big plans, cuz when Lulu accendently uses his power on Euphie…there is a scene where the King says “He actually did it…)…makes a lot of possibilities there also. Overall i say this is a Hyped up version of gundam seed with much better character control….and no cry-baby whimps(shin asuka) as heroes. GOOD SHOW! ALL HAIL LULOUCH!
This is one of my favourite animes so far…. And although I too don’t understand all the military talk I still find myself sitting on the edge of my chair and glued to the screan every time I watch it… Today I have finaly watched the long awaited 24th and 25th episodes of Code Geass… These two episodes were so great that I just ended up in tears when they were over, not because they were sad but because such a great anime has ended… The ending wasn’t even complete :( So I hope you are right about a new season…or mayby a movie…
Code Geass is my favorite anime of all. Perhaps I’m just into anti-heros since I was a fan of Light in Death-Note as well. More than that, I like the fact that rather than using the traditional anime/manga protagonist method of doing things with brawn. Characters like Light and Lelouch do things with brain. Its like a chess game where Lelouch is always looking ahead. In the case of Euphie, we all know it was an accident. As for why he killed her in the end, I don’t think it was out of mercy. As I said, Lelouch is always looking ahead of the game. Rather than let his mistake go to complete waste, he salvaged what he could and kept moving forward towards his goal. As we’ve seen, I don’t think Lelouch is the type of person that often allows compassion to get in the way of his goals. As for Suzaku…..god I hate him. The ironic thing is, he is actually the steriotypical protaganist that everyone usually loves. I find this contrast very appealing. Think about it, Suzaku would fit right at home in almost any other goody goody anime. But in Code Geass, the majority of the fans immediately side with the darker Lelouch. Anyways, I’m itching for season 2, unless of course either Lelouch or C.C. dies (I’m a fan of romance)….then we have a very very big problem.
This is how I see Suzaku, I understand, in a way why he does what he does. You may say he is a hypocrite, serving Britannia, yet killing, but what he is doing is just. You see, he is killing terrorists, he doesn’t want to, as you see in eps 1 where he tells him to stop killing people, instead of just shooting him on the spot like most Britannian’s would do. He doesn’t like the way Britannia rules, and so instead of killing and joining the Black Knights, he will stay and do what is just, he won’t kill people because it is wrong. That is why he won’t join the Black Knights, since he doesn’t believe in terrorist factions, or maybe rebelling against your leaders. As you might not see it and disagree with me here, when a country establishes a government in your country, they are your leaders now, and as cruel they might be taking it over and taking away your rights, they are still your new leaders, which you need to stay under authority of, if you get what I mean. What he is trying to do is change it by moving up in the ranks, so he can have enough power to try to change it internally so that they may become better that way, with minimal bloodshed, you see he has accepted himself, as a person under the authority of Britannia, they have won the war, now he must serve. He will do it, despite how worthless Britannia is. Since he has accepted that, that is why he will fight the Black Knights, because they are still just terrorists, killing people. He kills terrorists so there will be less bloodshed, which mens if the terrorists are eliminated then the fighting will stop, and he can continue to try to gain influence. That was why it was a shock to him, to hate someone so much that you want to kill that person, it went against what he believes, however, his belief system might change with this new found hatred, that is what I want to see, I hope he keeps his belief system despite what he is trying to do. For he is my favorite character in this story, he is what I believe to be the good guy in this story, the man who believes in true justice, despite how much we don’t want to follow justice in some instances, and don’t want to believe it is justice, that is what it is, justice. I hope this rant makes sense. :D
anyone no if theres supposed to be a movie and if so when does it come out? i read/heard somewhere that theres going to be a movie
Well hello eveyone! I’ll be straight, CG is cool. This is the first time I watched anime with that kind of settings, story and characters [although I mostly admired CLAMP’s characters] The phase is too fast which is best for anime’s. The storywriters did great bout how the story should move on and how would each character will act…
But the most interesting part for me is bout Euphie….she’s not actually Lulu’s sister but indeed the one to be married to Lulu…And how tragic that Lulu had to sacrifice Euphie…which is not normal for an anime..eventhough im not familiarize with the way this story moves but it gives me more realistic view on how war affects the human behavior. Death causes one to despair which results to rampage and forgetting even their principles.[bout Suzaku]
And for the LOVE SCENE at ep13..I was shocked…[eventhough im not sure on how Lulu feels bout Shirley] but still I am shocked O_O. To be honest this is the first time I saw that kind of scene….erasing her memory for her own sake…..it really touches me…..I cant even bare to do that if I have that ability….
Well the story goes swiftly fast but….i didnt expected that ending…so i thought that there would be season 2….[HOPE SO..im a typical guy that dont want horrible ending] so i went to stop by here to know when does the season 2 will be available….well although im not here actually…
IM REALLY CURIOUS bout the next season….Cornelia is still alive, what will happen to the Black Knight, the students together with the neird girl who made a knightmare with a bomb, to Nanali, the new type like CC [btw did you know the real name of CC???] and lastly, will Lulu choose Shirley or Karen for BRIDE XD
well hope to watch the new season…im really counting to this anime.
I just finished watching the series today (I know, it’s very fucking late-.-) and I think it’s probably the best anime I’ve ever watched. Can’t wait for 2nd season >:3
For tose who are hating on Suzaku, URUSAI! (JPN for shut up) He’s an idealist who is trying to change the system from within and in point of fact is more true to himself inwardly and outwardly than Lelouch. Not that anything is wrong with Lelouch, who makes Kira form Death Note look like the emo delusional weakling that he is. I’m fan of Lelouch but to tell the truth, I’m just as much interested in the aspects of the show that Suzaku brings in. Lelouch represents change through chaos and death, the dispassionate. Suzaku represents change through order and peace, the compassionate.
For those who call Suzaku hypocritical because of his father and the orders he has followed, what then of the soldiers in Iraq? Vietnam? Even WWII? They are not weak, pathetic individuals who sold out their ideals and morals, they are just following the orders they are given. Sometimes the war is truly a war for justice. Sometimes it’s just plain wrong. Suzaku wants peace, and he wants the least amount of death, that’s why he killed his father, because down the path PM Kururugi was embarking, more people would’ve died on both sides, though mostly Japanese, and peace would only have come when every man and woman of Japan was dead or maimed. He is not hypocritical, I’d actually say he’s compassionately pragmatic.
Oh, and by the way, Lelouch did lose some respect from me in how he handled Geass-ed Euphemia. He could have saved her dream and credibility while simultaneously destroying what was left of the purist faction and any sympathy they might have had. Oh, and of course, saved her as well…
You gys have got to see that there’s a need for both lulu and suzaka in the series. They are what you would call FOILs meaning complete opposites of each other. without one, the story would not be nearly as interesting as it is now.
Of course Suzaka believes in this own ideals but i gotta say, hes one helluva naieve idiot. Thruth is you cant have a revolution without death. Suzaka is stupid enough to believe that joining the army is the path of least bloodshed but he doesnt realize that right now all he is, is a puppet being used by Britania.
BTW have they announced when season 2 will be out?
I thinks you already know… but is beter to make this aclaration, the 23th stage isn´t really the last stage, there is a last two stages, and even there, don´t aclarate a bunch of things like what is exactly the contract between C.Cc and Lelouch, or Mariane-sama´s death.
We are all waitin a second season…
I think the 2nd season is coming out in october 4th but I got this information from some rabbid fan so I don’t think its that reliable, the ending in my opinion was really rushed even if they’re coming out with season 2, you know wished they gave something to do with the emperor isn’t he like the super badass being Lelouch’s father -,-, well hopefully they’ll tie up all the loose ends with the 2nd season
Some guys seem to lack eyes or something if they think Zero is a good guy. He may have good parts, but evil reigns over his actions (when they really matter). And you call killing Euphie being nice? If he was nice, he would tell the world he was the one responsible for it. Actually, if he was nice, he would have never given such order. By the way, what he wants is not different from the King of Great Brittania, to rule the world by force. Plus he is unstable making things really bad if he were to take over the world. But the worst thing of all is that Zero, unlike Brittania that is not interested in destroying the world and killing allies/friends to get what it wants, does not mind killing his friends/allies if it helps his goals and the world itself is unimportant that he would destroy it if he felt like it. By the way, I just watched the last episodes, and the Japanese are losing the battle because Zero abandoned them. Now I know he does everything because he is trying to save somebody he cares about so much; however, the results can never justify the actions if such actions are too evil to be forgiven.
The think I love of Code Geass is that the characters are not good or bad, they are human. They are all fighting for a better world, using the methods they believe in and have been though. Lelouch’s manipulates other, bacouse that is the power and Geass, and because that’s what his father does. Susaku tries to set an example, to transmit his ideas to others, hoping that they will change. Karen fights doing what she does best, piloting a Knightmare. Even C.C. is looking for something, and that’s why she risks herself so much. But in the end all of them want to be happy, so you can’t really hate them.
I specialy like Lelouch, probably because I always fall in love with Machiavelican, anti-heroes (like Kira). He is determined to avange her mother and kill his father, and he won’t stop at nothing. But at the same time, he is not a sociopath, he cares for other’s, specially Nunally. He cried when he realized what ha had done to Euphie, because he didn’t wanted that to happen, I think he wanted to help her build her dream, because in the end it was his dream. If you watch the scene, he was only explaining her his power, but the Geass activated, he didn’t wanted that to happen. He kills her as a way of cleaning his sins, because he knows it will hurt him, but in the end it is his fault.
An other thing I love about Lelouch are his mental break downs, he doesn’t cries, he doesn’t gets all emo, no, he just laughts hystericaly, becoming more and more unstable. Like when he discoverd who piloted the Lancelot, he sjust laughted at the irony of the situation. He is a strong character, his hatred is so strong that he just can’t give up, but that doen’t means things don’t affect him. He is becoming more and more dangerous, and only time will say how much.
Susaku is a hard character, he is an idealist in a realist anime. That’s why he appears to be a fool. If CG was a more “idealistic” anime he would be the undeniable heor, but CG has a really stro ng reflection about what is good and what is bad. Susaku is an idealist, he want’s to save others, he killed his father to save Japan, and he kills terrorist to protect civilians. He realizes what is good and bad, and he tries to follow the establiced path (trough the militia) to change the world. And so, he looks like a fool, because the world can’t be changed by ideals.
In the end Susaku couldn’t exist without Zero nor Zero without Susaku. Both are fighting for a better world, both are friends. But one is Machiavelican and the other an idealist. They are the representation of an ancient conflict, should we follow ideals, even if they don’t work, or should we act, even if our actions break our ideals? I know Susaku can be… hatable, but much of the story and character development depends on him. It’s really hard to be a goody-two-shoes I suppose.
Of course, the other characters are excelent, I specially like Karen, and her double personality. I can’t wait to see what happensd with her. She feelttrationed by Zero, who she followed blidly. As a matter of fact I suspect that the shot at the end of the series was her’s, but only time will say that.
Even though I like Kira, but I despise Suzaku.
I really hope theres a season two, mainly because i really love this anime but also alot of the plot and the character development is still unfinished.
It seems to me that the real bad guy in this series is the emporer and that he pretty much knows everything thats been going on and also about geass. one of my ideas was that he’s trying to find the strongest possible heir to his throne through this conflict or he’s trying to find some kind of ultimate power. Or as a friend suggested to me thats the power of his geass if he has one
I’ve been reading everthing you guys have been writing and really I’m amused =D What some think I really agree with and some I just don’t get. Where to start where to start? First of all I think most characters are just copied from other series, like Suzaku Kururugi is a copy of Kira Yamato from GSD (And I really don’t like Kira Yamato, sorry Kira fans =p).
Euphemia is in my opinion kind of like Lacus Clyne, also from GSD (Again a character I don’t like), and I really didn’t expect her to die, which made me kinda happy =p Hate me all you want. And at last Lelouch, the one who is a mix of Shinn from GSD and Light/Kira from Death Note. Lelouch fan =D
So what they’re doing is good or bad? That depends on how you look at it right? What Lelouch is doing looks like communism to me, and there has been events IRL when similar actions has been made and you can see it as an good action and a bad one. So no hitlerism, more leaning towards communism. I’m a kind of person who thinks that nothing can be gained without sacrifice. And that’s what Lelouch is doing, so in my aspect, what he’s doing isn’t wrong. Also, if you call it terrorism, it doesn’t have to be bad, you want to make your self heard. Often done in the wrong way sure but the goal is the same.
What Suzaku is doing is in my point of view wrong, or just strange. He’s Japanese, and the Japanese people were attacked and robbed from their lives. And what will he change from gaining power from within? I don’t see and japanese as an General in the army. And if he what’s to change the life style of the Japanese, shouldn’t he be in politics?
To me it only looks like he is the one aiming for power. And Lelouch is the one not aiming for it, he’s only aiming for a peaceful world. I don’t really think that if he’s the victorious one that he’ll crown himself king.
And as much as I want Suzaku dead, he can’t be killed, the story would fail and feint away (also he has got the plot armor)
C.C. next =o She’s great as she is now, all I really what to know is her true name, but I don’t mind her being called C.C. for the rest of the series.
And for all of you who hate Suzaku, big surprise, I’ve heard that the second season will mostly be about just him :)
The killing of the princess:
Never did think about it as an mercy killing, but it makes sence and seems like an good reason. Someone said that Lulu should’ve taken responsibility but then the Order of the Black knight would’ve been disbanded and he would have to tell the world about the geass which he posses.
Lulu choosing a bride? That’s a fun one :) I hope C.C. of course but if that wont happen I really hope it’ll be Karen/Kallen, Shirley is an closed chapter. But hope they make great friends. Btw I think that there will be an 3rd
Well I love this serie and I hope there will come loads of episodes since I like series with over 50 episodes and I can watch them over and over =D
The only cool parts about Kira Yamato is that when he gets into a mecha, he owns everyone in a cool way. Everything else – regarding his character and his ideals – they resemble that of a 7 year old child worshiping Superman. Suzaku in this case is pretty much a clone, except unlike Kira the saint, he’s actually human enough to break under such ideals when he lost Euphemia. (Though I guess to do Kira justice, Lacus was never killed so we can’t really test out that theory.)
It’s really funny when reading about morality being applied to an anime because anime always portray morality in the worst possible way. If morality is a mix of good and bad, and something in between, then it’s nothing more than a childish creation spawning out of emotional response to the suffering in the world. Human beings created the concept of good and evil, but they never clearly defined it. If you ask yourselves what is good and bad, likely, all you can do is base it on past traditions that root from emotional responses. Think about it, what action can you truly say is universally good? Saving a life? What if the person you saved wished to die? Of course, you can then say the person is delusional and thinks he wants to die when deep inside, he really doesn’t, but who are you to make that judgment? After all, you are not him. What about something milder, like helping a fallen grandma back to her feet on the streets. Would that be a good deed? As the grandma smile at you, thank you, and walk away, how would you know that she wasn’t putting on a mask of thankfulness when deep inside, her natural ego was crushed because your action made her realize that her age has made herself weak and useless? We have fundamental doubts. Each one of us has a unique past, and our pasts shape who we are today. What makes one person laugh in joy will make another cry. The most we can do is to have faith that at least for the most part, people are similar, but how far can you go based on that faith? And even if you have faith, who gives you the right to say that you can apply your own personal faith to others who may not fit your faith? This is why when you perform an action with the motivation that your action is a good one, you really have no basis.
And don’t tell me that it’s the intention that matters. Think about the portrayal of a man who expresses love by stabbing people with a dagger. I would much rather be hated than loved by such a man.
I hate Suzaku’s character, because he really is a kid. His greatest argument for his own ideals is that the end doesn’t justify the means, which in itself is flawed because it is an absolute answer. Realistically, it’s more of an economical balance between what the end means to you, and how much your methods disturb you. Suppose you kill one person to achieve $1,000. If you think the person’s life is worth more than $1000 in your pocket, then you will say the end does not justify the means. If you think the person’s life is worth less than $1000 in your pocket, then you will be content (though others may not be). Likely, if you think the value of the person’s life is exactly $1000, it will be as if you’ve done nothing. Of course, this is a shallow example, as I’m sure most people here would agree a person’s life is worth much more than $1000. Some of you may even think a person’s life is priceless (in which case I would ask you to really think on it and tell me what basis you have for that opinion). However, what if instead of $1000, we’re talking about something of a much more massive scale? To overthrow a suppressive monarchy like in the anime, for instance. Or, perhaps you are to kill 1000 people to prevent the potential suffering of millions more. If that’s the case, how do you weigh this? Look at our own history filled with war, stained hands, and bloodshed, people have died, things have been achieved. Some events we believe are good, while other events we believe are bad. But ultimately, which event can you clearly say is good when you consider both the losses and gains? You really can’t. We only think they’re good or bad deeds because of other factors unrelated to the intrinsic value of the deed itself, like who teaches our history classes, who writes our history textbooks, who was portrayed as good or bad in the aftermath of the deed.
You can interpret it, and attach some level of good or evil to an event or a deed, but then you would just be applying your own morality to it, and other people with different moral values would disagree with you. Ultimately, morality is personal, and the moment people use their own morality as basis for their actions, and their actions affect others of different moral values, that becomes the root of conflict.
So then, why is morality so unreliable? It’s because it’s a man-made concept, and man-made concepts are subjective to definition, and therefore are arguable. There are so many different schools of morality – ethical altruism, ethical egoism, divine code ethics, kantian ethics, utilitarianism, etc… the list goes on. Each school defines good and evil differently, and because it’s such a touchy subject, there are no universal definition of morality for humankind, and thus it continues to be man-made and personal.
Morality is not a real phenomenon. The only real phenomenon are matter, energy, and what their combinations and interactions create. It’s much like that french guy from The Matrix often quotes that it’s all down to merely cause and effect. A thing happen, and the result is this, that’s all. From this standpoint, Lelouch’s point of view is the most practical and most realistic. Yes, the end result is all that’s important because the end, the result, is physical. What people don’t realize, however, is that the byproduct of a “method” or “means” also contributes to the end result. If Lelouch kills 500 grunt in one of the battles in order to overthrow the empire. Suzaku may say that his method of killing is wrong and therefore he is wrong. But would he really be focused on the concept of murder? No, because he is really focusing on the result that 500 lives were ended and the families and loved ones of those 500 grunts would then suffer. There’s nothing undesirable with the concept of murder if no one is killed. There’s nothing undesirable in a lie if no one was tricked by it. Lelouch is correct in saying that the result is everything. However, the real problem is, is he only seeing his own intended portion of the result while being ignorant of all other side effects his actions brought, which are also a part of the whole result?
This is the situation that most heroes like him are often shown in. There are usually two ways for writers to attack such a hero in order to maintain a childish, moral message like Suzaku’s idealism. One – you make Lelouch mess up, and two – you make it so that Lelouch is ignorant of the whole result; you make it so that he does whatever he does while only having his desired result in mind, when in fact that negative side effects (characters end up dying) are piling up due to his actions, and then perhaps he slowly becomes irrational due to the emotional stress of the negative side results, or perhaps he realize the result in its wholeness at the end, but then it would be too late. I think it’s pretty clear in the anime that Lelouch wants something to happen, but some unforeseen factor caused something else to happen. In the first few conflicts, it’s always Suzaku escaping his calculation, showing up in Lancelot, owning everybody and turning the tide of the battle (honestly, this is why we don’t give little kids big toys), and then it becomes different characters from Lelouch’s non-Zero life shows up (i.e. Euphemia or even Shirley) at the climax of some operation against his calculations. And then Lelouch accidentally set off Euphemia, ending up having to kill her (and yes I do believe it is mercy killing). Meanwhile, how many times have Nanali been kidnapped? And how many time did Lelouch plan for it to happen?
Despite this, Lelouch was able to quickly change his plans to adapt to the new situation every time something surprising happened. It seems clear that he was driven with a goal in mind, and a will of such calibur can only be achieved if a) Lelouch wants the result and b) Lelouch is aware of the side effects of his methods, and that he still consider his own goal to be worth pursuing. In other words, his total result is not in conflict with his personal morality. It doens’t matter what other people morally values, because there can be endless different values from endless different people, what matters is that his own actions create effects that are not in conflict with his own personal morals. He has weighed this. If they are in conflict, then he would not be so adamant and so driven.
I should also point out that the major deaths and devastations that really did disturb Lelouch wasn’t the result of his own calculations or methods. They are merely accidents or coincidences created by the anime writers. Lelouch didn’t have to lose control of his geass at the exact same time he joked about having Euphemia kill all Japanese people, but the anime writers made it happen. Shirley didn’t have to show up when Lelouch almost defeated Cornelia, but the anime writers made it happen. These are plot devices, they have nothing to do with the intrinsic moral value of Lelouch’s actions with respect to anyone’s subjectivity. The plot devices show you nothing about the true nature of good and evil – they merely show you the anime writer’s take on who is good, who is bad, or simply how to make a story more intensive and interesting.
Characters like Lelouch and Yagami Light from death note are thought negatively because of what ends up happening in the plot of the show. If Lelouch fails to bring about his dream of overthrowing the empire, then it is not because the very idea of overthrowing the empire is evil; it is not because his methods are evil; it is merely because he is, after all, a mortal person with limits, and he wasn’t strong enough to carry out his plan. I feel the same sympathy for Death Note’s Light; he kills people, by definition he is a murderer, but that doesn’t make it a bad thing (well, it really depends on which moral definition of bad you’re using, and for how long of a timeline you’re applying it to), it just means that through his actions, other people’s life end. The ending to Death Note just means he wasn’t strong enough to defeat his oppositions, it says nothing about the moral nature of what he does. Characters like Lelouch and Light always tend to overestimate their own abilities. Interestingly, characters like Kira Yamato (the moral opposite) always tend to underestimate their abilities and become superhuman when in a pinch. What if Lelouch possess some genetic trait that enables him to solve any problematic situation thrown at him? What if Lelouch was entirely successful from beginning to end of his campaign, with no slip up, accident, or ill-luck? Would he achieve his desired end? Perhaps, it really depends on the anime writer. However, if he really did achieve his desired end, crushed the Britannia empire, ruled the world as king, brought back equality for all people, achieved revenge for his mother, and brought Nanali a bright and peaceful world. If that is the case, even if he had to be cruel and inhuman during his revolution (supposed cruelty and inhumanity is a necessary condition to bring about his world), would you still say that his deeds were “evil” and that he is a “bad” person? I think most would say that no, he is a good person. But then, isn’t the current Lelouch still the same Lelouch, but less capable? So then is capability the defining factor of good and evil? Surely not.
I’d also like to point out Russia and China’s attempt at communism, for it’s a similar concept and someone mentioned it earlier. The results of Russia and China’s communism are the basis upon which many westerners are considering communism as being bad and evil. But hey, I think most people would agree that communism in these countries has been tried, and failed. In other words, communism never existed in the first place, so how can you judge good or evil out of something that never existed? If I tried to make a device that cures world hunger, but before I was able to, I accidentally set off my lab, thus ending up killing the neighbor’s cat, would you then say that any device that cures world hunger is evil and will kill cats? No, it’s entirely my miscalculation, my mistake. Nothing is evil here. I’m just incapable, that’s all.
The thing is, if you’re writing a story for a book, show, movie, or anime, you have to make it give a neutral or “positive” moral message, otherwise you probably won’t get the story out. The publisher probably won’t publish it; the station probably won’t air it. Actually, this form of censorship is less severe with books because readers are generally people with more mature minds, who understand the relative nature of morality, who can think for themselves. But honestly, why does this form of censorship exist? To protect children from… thinking? Information mediums should provoke thinking, not hinder it. If they’re afraid children developing strange moral ideas that becomes harmful to others, then where are the parents? You know, a lot of things can be solved if all parents are good parents who guide (but not brainwash) a child properly.
I really liked the way C.C. concluded at the very end. The world is a meaningless, desolate, lonely place. People tend to try to create meaning out of nothing and call it universal truth; it’s a form of denial. When these things conflict, they bring about suffering, and when you have enough people and enough ideals and enough struggles, the suffering is endless. This is why every one of us has become people who suffer, who struggle, and what do we really want? We want happiness, even if it’s just a little bit of it.
I agree with most of you saying that Lelouch killing Euphi was a mercy kill. He DID cry when he issued the order, and he did try to stop her when the Geass activated by “accident”.
And i say “accident” because i think it is unlikely that it fits perfectly and i believe that the Emperor is somehow related to all this. Someone said it before, too many coincidences are happening and i think it is because the Emperor.
My theory is something like in the Vision of Escaflowne, in which the atlantes have the power to shape the future.
I think that the emperor is a Geass user, only that his power allowes him to see and influence the future (and thus, when Lelouch’s Geass activates permantly, he says “He did it”!!, because he wished for it).
I think that the Emperor is trying to create chaos through the world, or to choose his succesor. And i also think that he was the one who killed Lady Marianne… because he, knowing the future, knew the potential Lelouch had… to be the bringer of Chaos to the world…
Well, all of this theory is probable crap, but it was fun to imagine it.
I’m eagerly waiting for the next season!!!!
It is interesting that Lelouch said to Euphie “If I told you ‘kill all the Japanese’ you would.” It is like he had already considered the possibility and chose not to.
If so, it would explain why he felt responsible and didn’t say “it was an accident.”
Also I agree with what someone said before: I think the king is aware of everything. If you notice, one of the glyphs glows and activates the Geass and the king says “He did it.”
I also think the overall plot is probably as simple as the king choosing a successor.
I wish the didn’t end the whole season on a cliffhanger though, that was really lame.
wuhuhu…
im kinda really sad of the death of euphie..
actually, euphie and lelouch are siblings but w/ different mothers of
course(but i think their relationship are very far somehow more than family raletionship), well I thought the of the 2 to be possible romantically in love…
well thats for me i lyk lelouch and euphie to be together actually, well
its impossible ryt becoz euphie is dead T.T huhu…
well i sumhow i noticed when euphie discovered lulu was zero sumhow she was really happy, also i really cried when lelouch said to euphie when he was about to shoot her that he considered euphie as his 1st luv wahhh huhuhuhu! (sob*), i think lelouch made the correct decision if only the geass didn’t get out of control..dats why with regret he fatally shoots her… well…
nunally said that when euphie and her were small they were always fyting who will be lelouch’s bride..just lyk nunally said she asks if sumhow the feeling before when they were little, if sumwat she still feel the same way now to lelouch.. i knw that euphie have true feelings for suzaku.. but i just thought that euphie would fit lelouch better… anyway dont you think cc is really really old? well.. she is already seen even when suzaku and lelouch were kids…and sumhow there myt be a relationship about cc and lelouch’s mom
i really liked the emotion in cg, but the series was a bit convoluted imo. i think they could have accomplished the same amount of chaotic strife without going overboard on a number of occasions. on the strength of the emotional content and lelouch’s depth of character, i give it a thumbs up.
good stuff
Code Geass rocks….
I’ve watched a lot of anime (Naruto, Bleach, Death Note, Samurai animes, Vampire animes…. lots and lots) …. I kinda sound pathetic but I found it facinating to learn about the characters, their rationalizations, their psychology…
Out of all of them…. CODE GEASS is one of the best!!!
I’m usually a peace loving … non violence person. I always believe that change can be done through peaceful means. The whole series surprise me… If I were Lelouch, I’d have done exactly the same thing…
Lelouch is an awesome character… it’s very realistic. Suzaku, Euphie and Nanaly are in my opinion a bit childish…their views anyway. Lelouch is right although some of his manipulations scare me…. how could they create a good equal place with all the political pressure….their plans however good intentioned … won’t work.. just dreams…..
I like both Kallen and C.C…. their lives are interesting and I won’t mind Lelouch ending up with either of them… I think they are decisive, brave… the type of gals I like.
I really believe that Suzaku needs to live, y? Because he is Lelouch’s alternate path. Its interesting how Lelouch slowly moves towards a cold-blooded killer who will do anything for his conquests, while Suzaku who at first refuses to shoot his friend Lelouch, ends up shooting him and slowly becoming more and more like Britannia. I just think its funny how both of them are becoming “evil” in their pursuits of changing/ending the empire.
Suzaku was Eupi’s knight; she was always very peaceful and invited zero to participate in the new peace zone, and while she kept Zero’s identity hiden, Suz didnt, and went on a bloody rampage very unlike Eupi who is portrayed as innocence within Brit.
Also I do think the politics of this series is SUPPOSED to be a little confusing. Today we hear of terrorist attacks, organizations and other groups that most people know nothing about, the same applies for the series. While the big dogs are explained, its important that there is a lot of confusion, after all that is how Zero plans to destroy Brit.
Ive actually just started watching this anime the other day and jsut finished episode 23 and what most of you say is pretty true.
i found this to be one great anime, but as ive been going through the episodes it has start to make me feel really depressed :( the excitement, the anger, the shear frustration i get from it, is amazing, trying to comprehend how each persons view relates, how they think and why.
Its got to a point now, where im gunna have to stop watching it :D probably watching the last 2 episodes in a few days :D lol i gotta stop watching all these anime episodes in a straight row 0_o
I hope Kallen and Lelouch come together i would hate it if Lelouch ended up the bad guy in CG
Why is everyone dissing on Kira Yamato and Suzaku, because they are not only alike but suzaku is a physical clone of him? Lol but Kira does have emotions; did you not see when Fllay died? And why do people call him a saint and jesus? Cause he doesn’t die?
When I watched code geass, unfortunately, was around the time I started hating anime, otaku culture, and everything Japanese….But i’m recovering from that now, when I found out that Soichiro Hoshi voiced Gino(also Kira Yamato) I re-watched it..It’s nothing special, but better that most crap animes.^^
Um.. yea..pretty much i think what louche did at episode 25 was good…but i hated him for dieing (not sure if he died) but i really hope that a next season will come out :)… am positive it will cuz a lot of things still aren’t straightened out….and ahh C.C, she still lives…am sure louche is not died *i hope his not*
I gotta say I love the second season of Code Geass…I hope they leave it as is or tie it up with a movie.
I wouldn’t mind a new Code Geass but I think to keep the story rolling might make the series like Bleach or Naruto…drawn out till it dies to nothing but filler episodes.
I do think Lelouch was alive mainly because Charles was able to become immortal so Lelouch could very well could have become immortal with C.C.
Either case it was a great series and I enjoyed everyone episode!
Don’t worry about the subplot with C.C. and V.V. It will all be explained in season 2.
This is great series over all! I love the plot and the characters. When I was watching the season finale, I was literally shaking with excitment! The main reason being that I like Lelouch. He is so amazingly complex that it adds so much suspence to the story if the plot and the characters don’t do that already.
Suzaku is so annoying, why does he always have to butt in when Lelouch is doing something awesome?
I am so glad I’m not the only one that feels this way about Code Geass being too fast in revealing information. It is too quick and as a result it makes the story and the politics very complex but like you I enjoyed this series for the drama and the characters. As for the mecha… I have never been a big fan of mecha but I guess I will try to like it.
Can anyone please explain to me what the HECK happened at the end of episode 25? Who shot who and who died? And why did it show Nanali at the end? She wasn’t even in the room with them! I AM SO CONFUSED! >.<
@ Ezria
You have to watch the second season, Code Geass R2, in order to find out what happens and how the series ends.
yeah… I agree with everything you’ve said. Code Geass is really a great anime, its story and the chracters. Especially Lelouch, he has a great characteristic. He himself changed the world the way he wanted to. How I wish, I myself would be like him (a great hero who changed the world, gave freedom, peace, and equality among all men). Somehow, I’m really excited with the season 3. I’ve already read some of it (it is more about love story of lelouch and cc) but I think it is more exciting watching the anime.
If I have to be honest, I was one of the negatively prejudiced about this anime, but after I made myself watch it in its entirety, I was amazed. Great review and if you care about my full opinion, you can read it here: http://shinigamilist.com/2011/09/29/code-geass-review/
i hve watched the second season and i think that it was kind of annoying how the writers made it seem that lolouch was dead but gave a slim possobility of him being alive i think he ended up alive because before he was stabed in the chest i think he stole c2’s immortality and did not tell anyone accept c2 and jerimiah(orange) beacause jerimiah would not have let suzaku through if he did not believe he would live and end up fine also in the end c2 does not have the geass sigil on her forhead