The first episode of “Attack on Titan,” aptly titled “To You, in 2000 Years: The Fall of Shiganshina, Part 1,” plunges viewers into a world that is as captivating as it is terrifying. From the very first scene, it becomes clear that this is no ordinary anime; it is a narrative of survival, loss, and the relentless struggle of humanity against overwhelming odds.
The Setting: A Fragile Sanctuary
The story unfolds in a dystopian world where humanity teeters on the brink of extinction. Encased within three massive concentric walls—Maria, Rose, and Sheena—humanity has lived in relative peace for a century, shielded from the grotesque, human-eating Titans that roam the world beyond. The walls stand as symbols of both protection and imprisonment, a duality that is expertly portrayed through the eyes of our protagonist, Eren Yeager, and his friends, Mikasa Ackerman and Armin Arlert.
The Calm Before the Storm
Episode 1 does a brilliant job of lulling viewers into a false sense of security. We are introduced to the quaint life within Wall Maria, where Eren dreams of exploring the world beyond the walls, yearning for freedom and adventure. Mikasa, ever the protective companion, and Armin, the intelligent yet physically weak friend, share Eren’s dreams and fears. This tranquil introduction is abruptly shattered when the Colossal Titan appears.
The Colossal Titan: An Unimaginable Horror
The appearance of the Colossal Titan is a masterclass in building tension and terror. Towering over the walls, this monstrous being effortlessly breaches the supposedly impenetrable barrier, allowing smaller Titans to flood into the human territory. The sheer size and power of the Colossal Titan are conveyed through stunning animation and sound design, making the viewer feel the same sense of awe and dread as the characters.
Chaos and Destruction
As the Titans invade, the once peaceful town of Shiganshina descends into chaos. The sense of urgency and panic is palpable as people scramble for safety. This is where “Attack on Titan” truly sets itself apart; it does not shy away from depicting the brutal reality of its world. The visceral horror of seeing loved ones devoured by Titans is a stark reminder of the stakes at play.
Eren’s Transformation
The episode’s emotional core lies in Eren’s transformation. Witnessing his mother being eaten by a Titan ignites a fiery resolve within him. This traumatic event shapes Eren’s character, fueling his hatred for Titans and his determination to eradicate them. This pivotal moment is portrayed with raw emotion, making it impossible not to empathize with Eren’s pain and fury.
Mikasa and Armin: Pillars of Strength and Intelligence
Mikasa and Armin are not mere side characters; they are integral to the story. Mikasa’s unwavering loyalty to Eren and her formidable combat skills make her a force to be reckoned with. Armin’s intellect and strategic thinking, despite his physical weakness, highlight the importance of brains over brawn in this desperate fight for survival.
A Glimpse of the Larger Mystery
The first episode also plants the seeds of a larger mystery. What are the Titans, and where do they come from? Why are they attacking humanity? These questions linger in the background, promising deeper revelations and twists in the episodes to come.
Conclusion: An Unforgettable Start
“To You, in 2000 Years: The Fall of Shiganshina, Part 1” is an unforgettable start to the “Attack on Titan” series. It masterfully sets the stage for the epic tale that follows, combining stunning visuals, intense action, and profound emotional depth. As the credits roll, viewers are left with a sense of anticipation and dread, eager to see how Eren, Mikasa, and Armin will navigate this treacherous world and what secrets lie beyond the walls.
For those new to the series, this episode is a compelling invitation to dive into a world where humanity’s survival hangs by a thread. For returning fans, it is a poignant reminder of why “Attack on Titan” remains one of the most beloved and impactful anime series of all time.
My Thoughts After Re-watching:
The beginning of AOT Season 1 Episode 1 will probably always be one of my favorite first episodes of any show let alone just anime. The imagery of war, love, loss, pride, and about every emotion in between is captured in under 30 minutes.
Eren the protagonist alongside Mikasa are immediately thrust into numerous life or death scenarios that they themselves are not a part of; ie the war outside of the wall. They seem to, even in the first half of episode one progress from boy and girl to man and woman instantaneously after seeing the troops / scouts come back from beyond the wall. The world is no longer roses and flowers.
This is my second time running through the series so my recaps may be a bit more brief or remembering things from before; or if you’re lucky it will give me even more rich content for the recaps / Rick Rants.
watch attack on titan season 1 episode 1
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