Well for sure they have to animate the ramaining manga buti think they have to start from the beginning since a lot forgot this Gem and the new Anime eatcherd prefer generic plot lines.
The Black Lagoon manga has an entire completed arc (Wired Red Wild Card) post-Roberta's Blood Trail (OVAs), so we are approaching the point where Madhouse can animate another 12 episode season should they want to.
I finished reading that arc yesterday, it was rad. Rock finally completed his character arc, he had success for once rather than being played like a damn fiddle. The information dumps I mentioned earlier payed off because they all tied together, and become relative to the plot.
Rock's character arc is one of the most intriguing arcs i have seen. From an innocent Japanese office worker to a man slowly descending to darkness. Black Lagoon is an absolute hidden gem that more people should watch.
Don't kill me, but I've watched this show both in subs and dubs. And the fact that his dub voice actor is the same as Light Yagami' s is kinda funny, knowing how similar those two characters are 🤣
It's like the only reason chang was able to read him was because he was in rocks shoes before and to him it's like histories repeating itself another reason why I think he's laughing as well
Rock might be even worse than Chang. Let's face it, Chang was an ex-cop so he is more comfortable with killing than Rock who is a business man. But I think that's where Rock will shine as he doesn't need to shoot someone to kill them in Roanapur, as death in the city of the dead is less an end and more a formality, like going to the school when you've effectively graduated from there already.
@@dekeking9416 In The Red Wire Arc Someone Said (I forgot Who) To Rock, "rock you Pose more Threat Than Chang or Balalaika, When you Set foot to this Hellhole with Morals and Hope Everyone Waltzs around in laughter from your Innocent justice. What you've Become Shooked Every people In this Town. CHANG is Weary On what You can Do" what this maybe be a Conversation from rock and Benny i think says that "After Balalaika Rubbed Rock on japan, Rock changed In worst ways Rock Becomes Destructive and Willfully Plays The Ultimate Villain to Solves the problem and The Manipulation He had done to both roberta and his young master to Resolve the issue Means, Balalaika Open The Hell Gates on Rock She Pushed Rock To the Abyss And What Rock Surfaced After Revealing She will still Done Her(the yakuza's daugther) broke rock and made him step forward with Resolved for Wantom Destruction if arosed the problem and What made Benny said that "Even Chang Feared on what you can do" conversation
He pretty much is. We don't see him get directly involved much (although he is a badass when he is), and instead he games the world from the shadows. A more experienced and full version of Rock
Rock using his friends (Dutch, Benny) is, in my opinion, justified middle finger. They use him as asset ("We are not loaning rock to you" scene), why shouldn't he use them as such.
Well, he had his reason though. After the numerous deaths and failures he witnessed, he had to step into the darkside just to try to save people for once even if it means manipulating his friends.
Rock is def one of the best anime protagonist that never wins. You know why. He knows why, but you always want to see him try and fail than never try at all.
Yep, it's also fitting that he keeps building up. Something doesn't work, so he dives deeper to try and win. It makes the progression feel ramped up every time
I also find it refreshing to see an anime MC who isn't some teenage do-gooder "Power of friendship" type, but he isn't, as some would say, an "Edgy evil MC" either. He just an ordinary dude with flaws and virtues getting slowly corrupted by a force he will never be able to defeat, yet he just keeps right on trying for any small victory over that force he can as it slowly turns him into the thing that he wants to destroy without him even realizing it. Revy was half right, he should have just stayed behind in Japan, but to him his old life was no life at all.
@@jaylenharris343 I wouldn't say he bounces back, more like he learns where he fits in the order of things and works with what he's given and takes when he can.
@@ProfessorViral For as close as those two are getting to one another, they don't know how to talk to one another about what they want from each other.
The irony is, she invited him into this life, how did she think this would end? Was she hoping he would help her escape the darkness, or was she hoping to have him by her side as she slips deeper?
@@dimitritsopanian1146 I’m pretty sure that’s what Revy wanted, for him to save her. Well at least that’s what I got out of it, when Revy was talking to “ms. Little maid”(forgot her name) in the OVA ep 4 or 5, the maid said something about her waiting for a prince to come save her, or something along those lines. Idk that’s my opinion
The funny thing is. Is that during the Romanian twins Rock showcased his ability to thrive in this world. Being able to accurately predict where the twins are going to attack faster then both Mr. Chen and Balalika and counter them.
Also, "Gretel" only really seemed comfortable with him and Revy of all the Lagoon Team,saying "Other than my brother, you`re the only person who`s ever been nice to me." and relating to Revy "Smelling of blood and rotten sewers".
I found that robertas blood trail is the darkest of the 3 series. The whole message of the season is giving into your inner darkness. Letting it run free and just enjoying the aftermath. Rock basically wanted because as per the definition of madness rock had done the same thing over and over again expecting stuff to change. This time he wanted to try something different maybe just maybe by becoming what he most fears he can get what he wants, to save people.
@@ProfessorViral hes like the opposite of a mary sue. He can't shoot a gun, hes constantly belittled by both his crew mates and the top dogs of the city. Hes way in over his head, and hes never succeeded at anything hes tried to do since joining lagoon company. That's why hes so relatable. Hes such a good character.
Sometime after Black Lagoon finished airing on toomami, I learned about Roberta's blood trail, and I never remember toomani airing this arc. After watching recently and I immediately understood why toonami didn't air it.
I think just physically Rock and Chang look so similar the jet black hair and the way their bangs sit on the right side of their face, even the way they dress. The only difference is Chang is in the full suit and coat already a crime boss in Roanapur, while Rock is still a shirt and tie salesman climbing the ranks in the underworld.
@okRegan eventually, he will climb up there. What Chang sees is a younger version of himself. Chang was probably innocent himself at one time, thought that he could help save the world as a policeman, but became a dirty cop, then eventually a Triad boss. We are literally seeing history repeat itself with Rock. What tips him over all the way.. anyones guess.
Nah, i think that it will continue for sure. Its just that the manga goes pretty slow and they are waiting to be a good bunch of manga chapters to adapt. Its kinda like how they do with ippo, bringing it back every few years (wich i hope they keep doing because i love hajime no ippo anime)
Just finished all 3 seasons and I really hope it continues one of the most beautiful animes I've watched deeper messages between all of the gun-slinging and criminal words
The Manga goes on...there was a hiatus over a few years and the chapters dont come that regularly but its going on..i think there were two chapters so far in 2021
Gotta pay attention to what Dutch said at the end though "You were close". He was close, probably closer than anyone & we know that Eda is the kink in the armor of Chang. Not to mention the one scene where Chang's subordinate is talking to him while he's in the bath tub. Talking about Chang's past, almost like a convenient reassurance to someone who is having doubts. If Rock discovers some of these things then it's only a matter of time when he can use it. I think this shows that while Rock is a blank, he can also be dangerous if guided in the right direction. Less like a bullet, more like an arrow. A straight, silent arrow shot through the dark of a concrete jungle that is guided not by sight, but by intelligence alone & knowing what it's target is & by the time it hits it's target, the shooter will be out of sight, as if they were never there.
My take on that is that while Rock may be a blank now... all you need is a projectile to turn it into a deadly bullet. Something of substance to put that gunpowder to good use. And as you said, Chang's past may be just that - something that can turn Rock from a blank to a bullet.
When comparing Roberta's Blood Trail arc in the anime to the manga I've gotta say I think the anime is superior. One of the reasons being unlike the anime where Rock was essentially on top of things from the start making plans and manipulating people like some grand chess master, in the manga he really doesn't step up and take major action until the midway point of the arc and just reacts to everything til that point. Seeing Rock transform in the anime has gotta one of the most unnerving and badass things I've ever seen a character do, all done by a former buisnessman whose never even fired a gun. Sadly like what was mention in the video it was more or less all for naught. The city of the dead still stands.
It is sad that it was all for nothing. But, I suppose the upside is Rock is a smart guy, and learned why he didn't succeed. Which means he'll be more prepared for the future...
@@ProfessorViral That is the thing it really wasn't for nothing. Rock is constantly growing, he doesn't seem like it, but he is a very different person from the start of the series until where we leave him and the crew. Really, the path he is heading down now is like Takenaka's. Anyway, it will be interesting to see where Rock is a few years deeper into the story. He isn't in such a bad position if you think about it. Everyone considers him to be a good pawn, nearly impotent in terms of playing the game.
For sure! I think the addition of the scenes of Rock mapping out how his plans would play out was a smart move narratively speaking. It shows that Rock wasn't just winging it all, but rather calculating all the possible outcomes and coming to what seemed the most likely results. Plus, it shows just how much Rock came to understand Roanapur at that point, knowing how the city and its denizens work and how he could work it all to his advantage.
Rock & Revy's relationship is my favorite dynamic in anime. I love the tension between them, and how she obviously wants to care but at the same time knows she can't. & I can't wait to see when you do a breakdown of this relationship.
Her inhibitions versus what she really wants is one of the best aspects of her character for sure. I talked about their relationship a little bit more in Revy's focused video, but if we get a bit more closure in the future I'd be happy to go over it in full
It's weird that I never hear much on it. Maybe it's because some of the better stuff doesn't stand out at first, but I'm coming to really love Black Lagoon
@@ProfessorViral I'd say it largely comes from the time of when Black Lagoon was aired, what it had to compete with around then, and the general tastes of most anime watchers/viewers over the last decade or so. Hell, I found Black Lagoon purely by chance on here (back when UA-cam wouldn't usually pound your channel into the ground like a $3 whore for showing full-on anime episodes, visual quality none-withstanding) after scrolling through a bunch of anime openings. Glad I did, but I think that sorta sets the standard when it comes to the anime. Hopefully though, with all the recent videos on Black Lagoon, that will soon change. Though, considering the manga has gone essentially anywhere since Roberta's Blood Trail, perhaps it will still be a fickle popularity in the end.
Back when I watched the OVA one thing that always came up to mind was that Rock was turning into a monster. And if he succeed then he would've became a demon. There's one quote I keep with me which is from Hellsing Ultimate. "Demons dont cry. Humans do. And when their tears finally run dry, there's nothing left but a demon or a monster and one final prayer for death" - Alexander Anderson
@@ProfessorViral A blank can still kill as well, it just needs to be close to the body (overpressure injury, documented cases of people shooting blanks at their own heads and dying). Rock just needs to figure out how to use his blanks to really become a threat. (funfact: in the old days, soldiers would use blanks to fire rifle grenades)
Dutch did say Rock would be more scarier than Chang if he ever completely turned to the darkness , i think he said it to Benny where he talks about how Benny should also be scared of what Rock could become
@@ProfessorViral Dutch was hired by Asahi and Washime to Kill Rokuro Okajima and make it look like Espionage. There's a Reason why Dutch called all the whole thing off and Bunked Rock with Revy.
Maybe you should have considered including a sidenote of the scene that was cut from the manga, where Chang actually gives Rock the money in the final scene. Felt like it would have hammered your point home. Good vid
I've always thought that Yukio's death is what broke Rock in a way and is also when he does succumb to the darkness. Roberta's Blood Trail just shows how far Rock is willing to go. I've also always felt that in a way, Rock giving in to the darkness broke Revy as well as to her, Rock was a light at the end of the hell she was living through day by day. I don't know if she thought maybe they'd leave the city together but I do feel that she saw something in Rock that wasn't like the rest of the Lagoon Company
I think she had a slight dream of leaving the city with him, but wouldn't let herself believe it. She keeps this idea of him as a pure person in her mind, even as he slips to darkness. Like she's trying to convince herself it would never work, because wanting that would mean she was "weak." Whatever happens, she can convince herself she was right in the end, to keep her mindset together at all costs
I love how the characters expressions and designs vary in this anime. I mean, the overall design of the faces are much more flexible and sometimes even becomes realistic, compared to other more stactic animes. From sharp, shadowy, more "depressed" and realistic expressions and face proportions (like Revy in the shower scene), to sometimes just what it was in most of the first two seasons, rounder and more cartoon-ish.
Lagoons, as the name say, are bodies of liquid, normally water. But when it's black, it's either from dirt and detritus, or from oil contamination. Both of those easily get stuck in your body, weigh and pull you down, and don't wash away that much, and both of them have a high chance of hiding a much, much worse fate under the Black water. Maybe this is what happens to Rock: he is covered in the black water, but he doesn't quite realise, so he just keeps sinking Just a theory around the name of the show tho don't mind me
I remember being really confused by RBT when I first watched it so I really appreciate you making this video to help clear up my scattered thoughts on it. Gonna go rewatch.
People may think and worry that Rock is starting to become evil but if you read the "Wired Red Wild Card" arc from the Manga, he's still himself and has fully accepted the criminal life without having to feel bad so if he didn't do his "evil" plan then he would've been stuck with all the regrets. You can even see that he's helping out the guilt he's done over the Roberta arc.
More people need to experience the greatness of this series. I've been a Fan since 2007, even bought the Black Lagoon OST back then and it was rare as fuck to get stuff like OSTS in germany back in the day.
After watching this, I think Chang might be one of my personal favorite Anime Villains. His role as a villain is very subtle, but powerful when examined. I think a big part of why Chang is able to predict Rock so easily is because the two of them are actually kind of alike. I think Chang even mentioned to Rock that he used to be on the other side just like Rock was. Chang has been on the same journey that Rock is, and even though Chang's story has had a very different ending, as he has fully accepted the darkness unlike Rock, he still probably knows exactly what kind of thoughts that the road that Rock is on is filling Rock's mind with. And of course, Chang knows all about the dark side of the world too. Much like how Rock has adapted to it, Chang has mastered it. I think Chang is probably a potential example of what people like Rock are capable of if they both fully accept the darkness and also have enough power to back it up. Able to predict both sides and having the means to react to them accordingly. Rock has successfully adapted to this new world, but he's not at the top of the food chain. Just because he's proven himself to be capable doesn't necessarily mean that he's the best. That honor goes to people like Chang and Balalaika.
Like Dante once said "Is sanity the price for power". But I think rock has achieved something atleast even if Balalika and Chang let it happen .The moment Roberta went on a quote "This is just dogs tearing at eachother" I knew what's goona follow , Roberta(more like Ms.T-800) maynot live and Rock has to tap into his darkside will he fully give in and do something or will he preserve his views and just watch from the sidelines.
I don’t think Rock is a bad character at all but I just feel like he’s starting to realize what he has to do and is starting to do more dark things then what he did in tha beginning of the series, but he can possibly be one of the most dangerous characters just because of his mind hopefully he doesn’t becomes fully dark or that will be bad for everyone around him
@@ProfessorViral A fanficfion of Dutch's thoughts on Rock would somewhat work. "Give him a gun and he will be a new crime lord." Rock has the intelligence but should he start using a gun. It's only a matter of time before he goes in the deep end.
He is a grear character but on a path that if he fights or goes along with the darkness , he can only loose. Best case he wins but forfeits his rest of his soul, and probably life. Worst he becomes domething he hates and dangerous.
No. He just realizing that an idealist, must be willing to dirtied his hand to achieved his ideal. Everything has it's price. That's why Chang calls him hypocrite.
Man we really need them to continue this anime. That scene where revy fucked him up on that boat while Roberta was fighting the CIA forces honestly cemented by interest in future episodes..
Im soooo proud that BL is that one anime that made me fall in love with anime overall. And of course that its my favorite anime. And thats not gonna change.
If the series continues I would imagine rock would become like Walter White in some ways, probably using revy as a pawn for him until she’s no longer any use to him.
Well, so far he's still on the twilight (manga-wise). And we're one and a half arc in. Overall he assumed this form of existing, being in the twilight, but still making plans to get the best out of every situation, all while aware of the responsibility of his absolute freedom. Besides, that, we also see his relationship with Revy improving. Not as toxic as it was in the OVA.
@@saudbintalib2567 Black Clover is actually OVERrated, there is nothing really meaningful in it, it's just a pure shonen. I haven't seen Fire Force tho
@@gnhfhlghghfh688 bro Black Clover is meant for a younger audience just like any other Shonen yet people shit on it just because it has the tropes like can't we just let the new generation love Black Clover as much as they want because we're ruining their Shonen experience
Honestly, me too. Sometimes it's just about starting to write a thought down, and seeing where it goes. I usually have 10 pages of notes on a 24 episode anime so I can catch all those thoughts! But, I'm happy to see you enjoyed, and I hope we get more too!
One interesting aspect of black lagoon's animation is their emphasis on the human teeth. The canines are longer to indicate characters' animalistic blood lust. Whenever Revy, Balalaika, the romanian twins, chang, Roberta and other small timers smile their teeth have longer canines because they are always up for some violence. You never see that in Rock's smile until he hatches the scheme to save Garcia. His facial features and canines are sharper, indicating his transformation into a feral beast is complete.
I myself wouldn't see Rock as a Blank Bullet..more like the Wild Card, the Joker of the pack.. But what you have said about Chang was right on the money..Chang in a way is a character that we as the viewer know little about, apart from being an ex-cop who shot his partner and a boss in the Triads.. But back to Rock, he has in a way proven how dangerous his mind and his pride is when push comes to shove..in some parts, he would have made Chang sweat with some of his methods but he was ever so close to going over the edge.. This was a very enjoyable video on our favorite character..
Oh so glad to find this channel talking about black lagoon. It's such a good anime, just recommendation to something up your alley to analyze an anime came out last year. It's called Id invaded, it's a psychological crime thriller mystery with a scifi element to the cases. I didn't see much ppl discussing it or even an analysis on it either
How anyone could call Rock a wimp is beyond me. This man slowly became the very thing he said he wouldn't and did so with such ease. Like, shit he was cold blooded in Roberta's Blood Trail ain't give a fuck just wanted to see the results of all his planning. He's an actual strategic genius.
I think for early Rock, it's an oversimplification, but it works. I think it may be a comparison based thing for some people. He never picks up a gun like everyone else, so he's a "wimp," when it reality he has the most resolve
The way I look at rock, I see a man who's soul was weighed down with every failure, like an anchor dropping deep into the blackness. The cause of that was his unwillingness to undergo different means, yes He's developing less than prefable habits and is delving into the darkness willingly, but it's all insight with what he always wanted and aimed for. His goal remained the same but the means changed, even if the process seems twisted, its a necessary evil. He's come to grips with that and acceptance of it. His ethical and moral approach to solving issues like obviously would have never worked in a million years. Dignity, sympathy, empathy, value beyond materialism and a willingness to do without seeking payment, mean nothing in a world which only acknowledges somethings immediate effect. Hedonistic to the end. As a saying goes " in a massacre there is no decent place to stand " And only after being screwed time and time again, He's come to that realization, and its based of that we can assess his decisions, shit and shitter, and that's all he has. I believe he still has his soul, just abit blemished and He's come to know in order to overcome the darkness at it's core, he'd have to cast an ever greater shadow to encompass it and never let anyone ever wonder into it ever again. I still believe there's much to this story, partially I blame it's finality on the anime because it made it seem far more final than what it actually was. And hopes that one day we'll see its end Asking me personally? I think he'll succeed in his goal, hell he even might finally be free of the hedonistic cycle he keeps finding himself in and finally live a life He's long since desired, but with a taste for competition. You see, the ends justify the means, only when the ends truly do, and so I see all that rock did, or will do, as a necessary evil that will present a greater good. Will he die? With how the story is so far? Continuingly seeing that most of the deaths have always been external and just served a means for his character to grow and in turn help revy grow. Other than that I dont think so personally, at least based on what I've seen and I might be wrong. But I think if we're going down a metaphorical path, then yes he'll undoubtedly die, in the sense the rock we knew, and the rock revy knew, would no longer be. But that isn't a necessarily bad thing, he can grow, and finally actually achieve change ready to bear the weight of it and even finally, maybe even, free revy from the shackles of hate nihilsim, hedonism and materialism. I have hopes for an ending along these lines, after all, nothing lasts and change is a core theme of the story, so what's to say he won't bring change to roanapur and those around him? All is possible once you've come to grips with what change will cost you.
It still leaves a chance, of change There is a lot under the surface, All I can say to keep it short; Rock knows how to be an administrator, but he needs to know how to be an operator, his trick in the film was good, but needs to know "When to chamber a real round instead of a blank" and support Revy. He can't keep running to her, be better if he would back her up, both in a fight and when she is having those moments. Instead of her having to face the fire alone, better he is right beside her, don't have her stand alone. But I find myself curious; How would Revy take it, Rock picking up and carrying a gun for her, that he would kill for her if her life was really in danger, and if they got into a shootout; he would not hide or run, He'd say: "I staying with you, however this ends". Lastly; He could win, but that's the question How?
I had always wondered if Rock will one day ever go so far as to pick up a gun for the sake of others. It's popular fanfic idea for some reason. I suppose we'll have to wait and see what happens. I can't remember the name off the top of my head, but there was one really good fanfic where Rock chose to pick up a gun and give a drugged up dying child a mercy killing. It was dark but it made sense for Rock's character. He's not like Revy to go guns blazing, he's gonna start out slow and use it for when someone needs him to. In a different fanfic, Rock finally got a small peek at Revy's past and when the one night came where she wasn't strong enough to handle a problem with her own strength, he went into a, "I need a hero" sequence where he goes in killing for Revy's sake and tries to save her from a corrupt man who raped her when she was very little. Obviously, a sequence like that might be a bit much, but I like the idea of a corrupt well respected U.S. General as a black lagoon antagonist. Just some ideas they could try. See what sticks.
@@0570965 More or less. The biggest reason as to why this fanfic worked so well, was because Revy sort of got rewarded by opening herself up to Rock. Earlier in the fanfic, the Black Lagoon crew are in the middle of a job somewhere in a big city and Rock was supposed to show up in this business building for a sale exchange. However, it's revealed to be a setup and the business meeting was used as an ambush to get the corrupt U.S. General closer to Revy. He's pissed at her because when she was a child, she escaped from his abuse and shot his brother through a pillow so no one could hear it. As the Black lagoon are escaping the building, Revy had a slight slip up and didn't notice the weakened General had loaded his shotgun and he pulled the trigger. However, Rock noticed and quickly pushed Revy aside. Leading to him getting a serious wound in his chest. As the crew leave, Revy feels terrible as Rock had almost died back there. Out of the whole group, Revy was the only one who knew who the General was. Had she said something earlier, this whole mess could've been avoided. After the crew finds a hotel to stay for the night, Revy finally makes the tough decision to open herself up to Rock. Telling him that she was raped in Mott Street and how she came to know the General. Later on, this little info dump saved her life, because when the General captured Revy, he was feeling nostalgic and wanted to torture her in the same place they first met long ago. Most of the General's soldiers were in their base somewhere away from the city. The General's plan was to draw the Black Lagoon away from the city so he could take his time enjoying Revy if you get where I'm going with this. However, Rock saw through this plan and told Dutch and Benny to follow the General's troops to their base while he takes a different vehicle and drives off to Mott Street. After freeing Revy, Rock and her finally face off against the General and they both shoot him in the head. Jackpot (excuse my Devil May Cry reference). The story ends with them returning to Roanpur with Rock and Revy closer than they ever were before. Seriously, why is this not an arc yet? I'm usually not a fanfic fan if you get what I mean, but this guy frigging nailed it.
@@kokroughtoss1257 good one, maybe something like that would come around in the original, Rock and Revy will come together, and both will make it. As for the fanfiction, I be diving into it and see what happens. Thanks for the post
@@0570965 No problem. If you're looking for the fanfic, I believe it's specifically a Rock x Revy. So unfortunately you may have to slog through a lot of "bang booming" before you finally get to the good bits.
The OVA was just so much information, so much to pay attention just to keep up to. When I decided to binge Black Lagoon in my first view it was because I was hooked to all of the dark themes and the subtext of the dialogs and all the symbolism, thicc as a mix between crime film slangs and some anime storytelling/symbolism. But the OVA caught my senses off guard. It was really well made, but dense as well. I love your videos on BL because they remove SO much of that brain fog. I don't know if you do videos on manga, but theres a whole new finished arc after the OVA. I could check it out.
I'm glad I'm able to help you take them in a bit more! : D Although I don't at the moment, I may make some manga content down the road when I'm more established!
the one thing i love about this show is that the story arcs arent the whole season, each season has 2-3 storylines, when most shows use just 1 plot line, per season. plus the top notch characters
He is, I loved how "real" he was, even in an anime that's exaggerated at points. The way his mind shifts feels genuinely like a man trying to screw over the world that wronged him, without being forced at all
Lost potential is how i view this anime; rev and rocks relationship could've been so insanely fascinating to see unfold, but we barely got to see that happen
Rock is to obsessed with his goal to see Revy, and Revy didn't want to see Rock for who he had become, because it was against what she wanted from him. It would also mean admitting to her weakness, which she would never do
On an (almost) unrelated note to the video: it's buffling that there is still no Black Lagoon AMV on "Dead Inside" by Muse - the song lyrics correspond to the series' plot so well that I wouldn't be surprised if it was directly inspired by the show.
Rock didn’t descend into darkness though. At the end of Rubertas Blood Trail when you thought he lost it, it turned out he was trying to expose the evil. He just didn’t work. Not yet, because he’s gonna try again. He’s a light in a dark world but a light nonetheless.
He kinda played himself tho. I dont really like his attitude his hypocrisy is kinda nerve-wracking. He willingly joined a group of blood thirsty demons and claims to be a different breed. Like dude c'mon who are you kidding you are just as bad as them contributing to make the world a worst place. Each time he "tries" to save someone he fails miserably. I feel like he never invest 100% to the cause. He is afraid to wet himself, he couldve saved Yuki but instead watched her die in front of him. Anyways I just feel like he is a big hypocrite stucked in delusion of grandeur.
Great video, like the rest. Rock's struggling against the dying of the light arguably accelerated the coming of greater darkness not just in his life, but Roanapur.
This is so right about Rock. Once good, but I think this can happen to everyone (Yes you!) through the experiences he has witnessed made him consumed the darkness that others have been already consumed throughout the anime. However, because of Revy's angered personality, I think we all know (already mentioned) Revy has slightly (not a soft spot) but like a "cool down" to reflect on Rock's slip away to the darkness. This is really interesting to see because in this day and age, I see a similar scenario with AOT (Attack on Titan). In conclusion, Rock or Rock? We'll never know, but we can all have ones individual opinion to this anime/manga because with this realistically bad ass anime, like this guy said, there's alot to talk about.
Really glad you followed up your last video. I liked the last one and I always had trouble with this special becuase of how it twisted rocks character but after watching this I can accept this as the unfortunate and natural evolution of his character.
Very well done. I can suggest you to watch and make a video about Jormungand. Similar dark anime, with better character progression (but possibly a bit worse world-building and depth).
There are some Animes I realy wanna see more of... - Black Lagoon (Sequel) - Jormungand (Sequel) - Yukikaze (Sequel or Reboot) - Patlabor - Appleseed - Gunslinger Girl (Sequel) - Claymore (Sequel) - Record of Lodoss War (Reboot) - Gasaraki (Reboot) - Blue Gender (Reboot) - Broken Blade (Sequel)
Roanapur is a black hole. Once within it's gravity It will for all but the lucky few pull you into it. Rock on his way down the event horizon uses his own gravity to slingshot a precious few free. Rock is a fallen hero, a robin hood turned murderous bandit yet still seeing the vestige of his former self. In season 1 he was caught, in two he tried using his gravity to fling a few of those he called good free only to see them sucked into the event horizon. In 3 he decides to fling himself inside to slingshot those he considers worth saving in the short term to have them play the long game after he dies. It's cold, calculated, manipulative, and bloody yet does it get it done?
I have no idea if this is how it should/could go, but if they had him have to kill Revy for some grand plan or something like that, I think that would be the best way to make him someone who killed directly
Everyone thinks Rock was innocent at first but there are a few episodes that say different. One is when Revy and Etta are getting to shot each other, he reminds calm and talks to the old nun. He minplated the talks, even the nun said Dutch has a good eye and with a little practice he will get better. Another is when Beenie told Dutch he and Rock dont belong, Dutch said wrong he saw darkness in both of them. He always belonged to Ranaper he just had to stop pretending to be good
I know rock hasn’t experienced her life but he’s kind of onto something this time and that’s why she reacts, he’s a mirror of her (snarls, sadistic enjoyment of the game and he’s carrying a gun even if it wasn’t him firing he’s stated he never wants to use one) in this case and it’s breaking the personality she’s been projecting onto him once he lets his darkest nature surfaces she tries to beat it instantly she even draws her gun and says leave because it’s breaking the image of the ‘hero’ as lil maid puts it she’s subconsciously labelled him as
Coming back to this video after 3 years, I cant help but feel that Cyberpunk was partly inspired by BL, or the other way around. Roanapur and Night City are very similar at their core, even though on the outside, they couldnt be more different. And the way these cities affect their inhabitants is near identical. I'm still in love with this manga/anime and its characters.
Can you do a video about next arc of Black Lagoon that is in the manga. I am not sure if you are interested in manga at all, however i would like to know your view on future development.
I would say that you were off about one part. Things didn't go the way Chang wanted them to as he wasn't the chess master anymore than Rock was, they went the way Eda and the CIA wanted. Chang, for all his own bravado is at the end of the day, just a playing piece on someone else's board. As Eda reminds Chang(though he doesn't know it's her) "You can make a person disappear, but we(the US) can destroy entire countries. We have no rival in this world."
He and Revy are the whole reason why we need a fourth season
Well for sure they have to animate the ramaining manga buti think they have to start from the beginning since a lot forgot this Gem and the new Anime eatcherd prefer generic plot lines.
@@mistercat5300 no
@@mistercat5300 No
Facts
This gem would not be appreciated in today’s audience
The Black Lagoon manga has an entire completed arc (Wired Red Wild Card) post-Roberta's Blood Trail (OVAs), so we are approaching the point where Madhouse can animate another 12 episode season should they want to.
Hopefully they'll decided to, I'd love to see how this continues
I'm hoping. None of the anime arcs have felt very final in terms of how they have ended imo.
Wired Red Wild Card has a slow start, and not sure if it was burn out on my part, or the information dumps. I should finish it sometime.
I'm worried that too many of the cast members have moved on to other roles and wont be available to return at this point.
I finished reading that arc yesterday, it was rad. Rock finally completed his character arc, he had success for once rather than being played like a damn fiddle. The information dumps I mentioned earlier payed off because they all tied together, and become relative to the plot.
Rock's character arc is one of the most intriguing arcs i have seen. From an innocent Japanese office worker to a man slowly descending to darkness. Black Lagoon is an absolute hidden gem that more people should watch.
For sure, it's one I'll be recommending for people who enjoy darker series forever!
by far one of the greatest shows I have ever seen
I agree
He is absolutely going to take over Lagoon at some point and become a crime lord.
Don't kill me, but I've watched this show both in subs and dubs. And the fact that his dub voice actor is the same as Light Yagami' s is kinda funny, knowing how similar those two characters are 🤣
I always think of chang as a darker version of rock or what he'll become if he surrenders to the darkness completely
It's like the only reason chang was able to read him was because he was in rocks shoes before and to him it's like histories repeating itself another reason why I think he's laughing as well
@@dekeking9416 Chang was a former cop.
Rock might be even worse than Chang. Let's face it, Chang was an ex-cop so he is more comfortable with killing than Rock who is a business man. But I think that's where Rock will shine as he doesn't need to shoot someone to kill them in Roanapur, as death in the city of the dead is less an end and more a formality, like going to the school when you've effectively graduated from there already.
@@dekeking9416 In The Red Wire Arc Someone Said (I forgot Who) To Rock, "rock you Pose more Threat Than Chang or Balalaika, When you Set foot to this Hellhole with Morals and Hope Everyone Waltzs around in laughter from your Innocent justice. What you've Become Shooked Every people In this Town. CHANG is Weary On what You can Do" what this maybe be a Conversation from rock and Benny i think says that "After Balalaika Rubbed Rock on japan, Rock changed In worst ways Rock Becomes Destructive and Willfully Plays The Ultimate Villain to Solves the problem and The Manipulation He had done to both roberta and his young master to Resolve the issue Means, Balalaika Open The Hell Gates on Rock She Pushed Rock To the Abyss And What Rock Surfaced After Revealing She will still Done Her(the yakuza's daugther) broke rock and made him step forward with Resolved for Wantom Destruction if arosed the problem and What made Benny said that "Even Chang Feared on what you can do" conversation
He pretty much is. We don't see him get directly involved much (although he is a badass when he is), and instead he games the world from the shadows. A more experienced and full version of Rock
Rock using his friends (Dutch, Benny) is, in my opinion, justified middle finger. They use him as asset ("We are not loaning rock to you" scene), why shouldn't he use them as such.
Well, he had his reason though. After the numerous deaths and failures he witnessed, he had to step into the darkside just to try to save people for once even if it means manipulating his friends.
"You've become the very thing you swore to destroy!"
The words of Obi Wan strike again lol
he never really swore to destroy evil though
@@Vary180 no. But he did swore to destroy Roanopure.
@@nurlindafsihotang49he swore to destroy Roanopure so he’s gonna turn into Roanopure💀
Rock is def one of the best anime protagonist that never wins. You know why. He knows why, but you always want to see him try and fail than never try at all.
Yep, it's also fitting that he keeps building up. Something doesn't work, so he dives deeper to try and win. It makes the progression feel ramped up every time
I also find it refreshing to see an anime MC who isn't some teenage do-gooder "Power of friendship" type, but he isn't, as some would say, an "Edgy evil MC" either. He just an ordinary dude with flaws and virtues getting slowly corrupted by a force he will never be able to defeat, yet he just keeps right on trying for any small victory over that force he can as it slowly turns him into the thing that he wants to destroy without him even realizing it. Revy was half right, he should have just stayed behind in Japan, but to him his old life was no life at all.
Does rock ever bounce back or does it get worse for him
@@jaylenharris343 I wouldn't say he bounces back, more like he learns where he fits in the order of things and works with what he's given and takes when he can.
@Ban this youtube yes....just yes
Black Lagoon has a special place in my heart, it taught me things ....
It's growing more and more fond for me, I think this is gonna be one of those "warm blanket" anime for me in a year or so
Like guns beat knives, nukes beat guns.
@@ProfessorViral Same I’ve been a very big fan of the show for a long time
Like how money is what makes things valuable?
Nuns traffic drugs... thats.... thats what I.... learned.....
kinda sad that rock became the thing that revy wanted to prevent all this time
Yep, as she slowly slides towards him, he slowly slips into the darkness
@@ProfessorViral For as close as those two are getting to one another, they don't know how to talk to one another about what they want from each other.
@@RuffWarl0ck they cant because that would make it real, making it vulnerable and something that can die.
The irony is, she invited him into this life, how did she think this would end? Was she hoping he would help her escape the darkness, or was she hoping to have him by her side as she slips deeper?
@@dimitritsopanian1146 I’m pretty sure that’s what Revy wanted, for him to save her. Well at least that’s what I got out of it, when Revy was talking to “ms. Little maid”(forgot her name) in the OVA ep 4 or 5, the maid said something about her waiting for a prince to come save her, or something along those lines. Idk that’s my opinion
The funny thing is. Is that during the Romanian twins Rock showcased his ability to thrive in this world. Being able to accurately predict where the twins are going to attack faster then both Mr. Chen and Balalika and counter them.
Also, "Gretel" only really seemed comfortable with him and Revy of all the Lagoon Team,saying "Other than my brother, you`re the only person who`s ever been nice to me." and relating to Revy "Smelling of blood and rotten sewers".
Why do you think Balalaika has the Hots for him?
@@Tornado1994 she has a type
I found that robertas blood trail is the darkest of the 3 series. The whole message of the season is giving into your inner darkness. Letting it run free and just enjoying the aftermath. Rock basically wanted because as per the definition of madness rock had done the same thing over and over again expecting stuff to change. This time he wanted to try something different maybe just maybe by becoming what he most fears he can get what he wants, to save people.
For sure. He was close, but Roanapur is no average city. It's so compelling watching how he evolves, only to be shot down at every turn
@@ProfessorViral hes like the opposite of a mary sue. He can't shoot a gun, hes constantly belittled by both his crew mates and the top dogs of the city. Hes way in over his head, and hes never succeeded at anything hes tried to do since joining lagoon company. That's why hes so relatable. Hes such a good character.
Sometime after Black Lagoon finished airing on toomami, I learned about Roberta's blood trail, and I never remember toomani airing this arc. After watching recently and I immediately understood why toonami didn't air it.
I think just physically Rock and Chang look so similar the jet black hair and the way their bangs sit on the right side of their face, even the way they dress. The only difference is Chang is in the full suit and coat already a crime boss in Roanapur, while Rock is still a shirt and tie salesman climbing the ranks in the underworld.
That's actually a nice visual way to look at it, and a great detail I missed! I'm glad you brought that up! : )
@@ProfessorViral it's the ones hiding in plain sight that are always the easiest to miss :/
Nice attention to detail
Level 1 crook vs level 100 mafia boss
@okRegan eventually, he will climb up there. What Chang sees is a younger version of himself. Chang was probably innocent himself at one time, thought that he could help save the world as a policeman, but became a dirty cop, then eventually a
Triad boss. We are literally seeing history repeat itself with Rock. What tips him over all the way.. anyones guess.
The potential of this show... the world building is just impeccable. Heartbreaking that it might not continue.
Yeah, it does suck that it may end so suddenly for the anime
Nah, i think that it will continue for sure. Its just that the manga goes pretty slow and they are waiting to be a good bunch of manga chapters to adapt. Its kinda like how they do with ippo, bringing it back every few years (wich i hope they keep doing because i love hajime no ippo anime)
Just finished all 3 seasons and I really hope it continues one of the most beautiful animes I've watched deeper messages between all of the gun-slinging and criminal words
The Manga goes on...there was a hiatus over a few years and the chapters dont come that regularly but its going on..i think there were two chapters so far in 2021
Black Lagoon is one of the most complex anime’s regarding how it deals with characters and relationships
Very true, they argue and interact in very real feeling ways, even when things get a bit out there
Gotta pay attention to what Dutch said at the end though "You were close". He was close, probably closer than anyone & we know that Eda is the kink in the armor of Chang. Not to mention the one scene where Chang's subordinate is talking to him while he's in the bath tub. Talking about Chang's past, almost like a convenient reassurance to someone who is having doubts. If Rock discovers some of these things then it's only a matter of time when he can use it. I think this shows that while Rock is a blank, he can also be dangerous if guided in the right direction. Less like a bullet, more like an arrow. A straight, silent arrow shot through the dark of a concrete jungle that is guided not by sight, but by intelligence alone & knowing what it's target is & by the time it hits it's target, the shooter will be out of sight, as if they were never there.
My take on that is that while Rock may be a blank now... all you need is a projectile to turn it into a deadly bullet. Something of substance to put that gunpowder to good use. And as you said, Chang's past may be just that - something that can turn Rock from a blank to a bullet.
When comparing Roberta's Blood Trail arc in the anime to the manga I've gotta say I think the anime is superior. One of the reasons being unlike the anime where Rock was essentially on top of things from the start making plans and manipulating people like some grand chess master, in the manga he really doesn't step up and take major action until the midway point of the arc and just reacts to everything til that point.
Seeing Rock transform in the anime has gotta one of the most unnerving and badass things I've ever seen a character do, all done by a former buisnessman whose never even fired a gun.
Sadly like what was mention in the video it was more or less all for naught. The city of the dead still stands.
It is sad that it was all for nothing. But, I suppose the upside is Rock is a smart guy, and learned why he didn't succeed. Which means he'll be more prepared for the future...
@@ProfessorViral That is the thing it really wasn't for nothing. Rock is constantly growing, he doesn't seem like it, but he is a very different person from the start of the series until where we leave him and the crew. Really, the path he is heading down now is like Takenaka's. Anyway, it will be interesting to see where Rock is a few years deeper into the story. He isn't in such a bad position if you think about it. Everyone considers him to be a good pawn, nearly impotent in terms of playing the game.
For sure!
I think the addition of the scenes of Rock mapping out how his plans would play out was a smart move narratively speaking. It shows that Rock wasn't just winging it all, but rather calculating all the possible outcomes and coming to what seemed the most likely results. Plus, it shows just how much Rock came to understand Roanapur at that point, knowing how the city and its denizens work and how he could work it all to his advantage.
Rock & Revy's relationship is my favorite dynamic in anime. I love the tension between them, and how she obviously wants to care but at the same time knows she can't.
& I can't wait to see when you do a breakdown of this relationship.
Her inhibitions versus what she really wants is one of the best aspects of her character for sure. I talked about their relationship a little bit more in Revy's focused video, but if we get a bit more closure in the future I'd be happy to go over it in full
"You either die a hero or you live long enough to see yourself become the villain."
Yep👌
Istg, this franchise could go to 600 seasons and id still do my best to keep up with it. It deserves so much.
It's weird that I never hear much on it. Maybe it's because some of the better stuff doesn't stand out at first, but I'm coming to really love Black Lagoon
@@ProfessorViral Fantasy anime really takes the light away from animes like black lagoon.
@@ProfessorViral I'd say it largely comes from the time of when Black Lagoon was aired, what it had to compete with around then, and the general tastes of most anime watchers/viewers over the last decade or so. Hell, I found Black Lagoon purely by chance on here (back when UA-cam wouldn't usually pound your channel into the ground like a $3 whore for showing full-on anime episodes, visual quality none-withstanding) after scrolling through a bunch of anime openings. Glad I did, but I think that sorta sets the standard when it comes to the anime. Hopefully though, with all the recent videos on Black Lagoon, that will soon change.
Though, considering the manga has gone essentially anywhere since Roberta's Blood Trail, perhaps it will still be a fickle popularity in the end.
@@ProfessorViral the manga creator takes more time creating its like 1 chapter every 1-2 years
Back when I watched the OVA one thing that always came up to mind was that Rock was turning into a monster. And if he succeed then he would've became a demon. There's one quote I keep with me which is from Hellsing Ultimate. "Demons dont cry. Humans do. And when their tears finally run dry, there's nothing left but a demon or a monster and one final prayer for death" - Alexander Anderson
A blank is a dangerous kind of bullet. You can start a whole lot of chaos with a blank you just have to learn how to use it right XD
That is true, I didnt look at it that way. He can take his one shot, and let others do the rest in chaos. That would be very Rock...
@@ProfessorViral A blank can still kill as well, it just needs to be close to the body (overpressure injury, documented cases of people shooting blanks at their own heads and dying).
Rock just needs to figure out how to use his blanks to really become a threat.
(funfact: in the old days, soldiers would use blanks to fire rifle grenades)
@@greedkingcobalt200 Really old but we still do use blanks to fire off grenades
You can start even wars with a blank. Hell wars come prom politics, where his tongue ismore dangerous.
@@marocat4749 like "Iraq got WMD".
And we ends up with fuck-up decades after another.
Dutch did say Rock would be more scarier than Chang if he ever completely turned to the darkness , i think he said it to Benny where he talks about how Benny should also be scared of what Rock could become
He does recognize that in him... which, as a side note, says something about Dutch. Didn't think of that before
@Ban this youtube revy can’t run an criminal organization rock can and his business knowledge and acumen would make him excellent at it
@@ProfessorViral Dutch was hired by Asahi and Washime to Kill Rokuro Okajima and make it look like Espionage. There's a Reason why Dutch called all the whole thing off and Bunked Rock with Revy.
Is that mentioned on the anime what episode
@@Tornado1994 I don't understand the reason for bunking Rock with Revy?
Maybe you should have considered including a sidenote of the scene that was cut from the manga, where Chang actually gives Rock the money in the final scene. Felt like it would have hammered your point home. Good vid
I actually didn't know that was a thing, I haven't read the manga as of yet. That would have been a great point!
I've always thought that Yukio's death is what broke Rock in a way and is also when he does succumb to the darkness. Roberta's Blood Trail just shows how far Rock is willing to go.
I've also always felt that in a way, Rock giving in to the darkness broke Revy as well as to her, Rock was a light at the end of the hell she was living through day by day. I don't know if she thought maybe they'd leave the city together but I do feel that she saw something in Rock that wasn't like the rest of the Lagoon Company
I think she had a slight dream of leaving the city with him, but wouldn't let herself believe it. She keeps this idea of him as a pure person in her mind, even as he slips to darkness. Like she's trying to convince herself it would never work, because wanting that would mean she was "weak." Whatever happens, she can convince herself she was right in the end, to keep her mindset together at all costs
I love how the characters expressions and designs vary in this anime. I mean, the overall design of the faces are much more flexible and sometimes even becomes realistic, compared to other more stactic animes. From sharp, shadowy, more "depressed" and realistic expressions and face proportions (like Revy in the shower scene), to sometimes just what it was in most of the first two seasons, rounder and more cartoon-ish.
Rock realized how he was slipping out of the Twilight and more into the darkness.
Lagoons, as the name say, are bodies of liquid, normally water. But when it's black, it's either from dirt and detritus, or from oil contamination. Both of those easily get stuck in your body, weigh and pull you down, and don't wash away that much, and both of them have a high chance of hiding a much, much worse fate under the Black water. Maybe this is what happens to Rock: he is covered in the black water, but he doesn't quite realise, so he just keeps sinking Just a theory around the name of the show tho don't mind me
YES MORE BLACK LAGOON
I'm happy to provide! : D
That OVA made Rock so damn cool but than it turns out he was being played and at the end, Rock played himself.
congratulations you played yourself
@@gustavgustaffson9553 Never play yourself.
oh man this is definitely one of the best rock character analysis videos i’ve seen. very in-depth and covered moments i’ve waved off.
I remember being really confused by RBT when I first watched it so I really appreciate you making this video to help clear up my scattered thoughts on it. Gonna go rewatch.
Hey, thanks for watching! I'm glad I was able to clear it up a bit : D
People may think and worry that Rock is starting to become evil but if you read the "Wired Red Wild Card" arc from the Manga, he's still himself and has fully accepted the criminal life without having to feel bad so if he didn't do his "evil" plan then he would've been stuck with all the regrets. You can even see that he's helping out the guilt he's done over the Roberta arc.
More people need to experience the greatness of this series.
I've been a Fan since 2007, even bought the Black Lagoon OST back then and it was rare as fuck to get stuff like OSTS in germany back in the day.
Agreed, this is a definite recommend for anyone who can take darker series
After watching this, I think Chang might be one of my personal favorite Anime Villains. His role as a villain is very subtle, but powerful when examined.
I think a big part of why Chang is able to predict Rock so easily is because the two of them are actually kind of alike. I think Chang even mentioned to Rock that he used to be on the other side just like Rock was. Chang has been on the same journey that Rock is, and even though Chang's story has had a very different ending, as he has fully accepted the darkness unlike Rock, he still probably knows exactly what kind of thoughts that the road that Rock is on is filling Rock's mind with.
And of course, Chang knows all about the dark side of the world too. Much like how Rock has adapted to it, Chang has mastered it.
I think Chang is probably a potential example of what people like Rock are capable of if they both fully accept the darkness and also have enough power to back it up. Able to predict both sides and having the means to react to them accordingly.
Rock has successfully adapted to this new world, but he's not at the top of the food chain. Just because he's proven himself to be capable doesn't necessarily mean that he's the best. That honor goes to people like Chang and Balalaika.
Like Dante once said "Is sanity the price for power".
But I think rock has achieved something atleast even if Balalika and Chang let it happen .The moment Roberta went on a quote "This is just dogs tearing at eachother" I knew what's goona follow , Roberta(more like Ms.T-800) maynot live and Rock has to tap into his darkside will he fully give in and do something or will he preserve his views and just watch from the sidelines.
He's not on the top yet pretty sure he's gonna be the most dangerous one soon just like a certain meek chemistry teacher
@@sagarrajan7385 what chemistry teacher ?
@@anilkumarhansda8087 Walter white
"3 things i learn to fear.. sea in the storm, nights with no moon ...., and the wrath of a patient man"
I don’t think Rock is a bad character at all but I just feel like he’s starting to realize what he has to do and is starting to do more dark things then what he did in tha beginning of the series, but he can possibly be one of the most dangerous characters just because of his mind hopefully he doesn’t becomes fully dark or that will be bad for everyone around him
True, if he goes all in when this was just his mostly in, he could be the most dangerous person there. Imagine if he had Chang's level of resources
@@ProfessorViral A fanficfion of Dutch's thoughts on Rock would somewhat work.
"Give him a gun and he will be a new crime lord."
Rock has the intelligence but should he start using a gun. It's only a matter of time before he goes in the deep end.
@@homingice6444 sounds cool
He is a grear character but on a path that if he fights or goes along with the darkness , he can only loose. Best case he wins but forfeits his rest of his soul, and probably life. Worst he becomes domething he hates and dangerous.
No. He just realizing that an idealist, must be willing to dirtied his hand to achieved his ideal. Everything has it's price. That's why Chang calls him hypocrite.
Man we really need them to continue this anime. That scene where revy fucked him up on that boat while Roberta was fighting the CIA forces honestly cemented by interest in future episodes..
Another quality Black Lagoon video! I'm loving these!
Thanks, I'm glad to see you've been enjoying them!
Im soooo proud that BL is that one anime that made me fall in love with anime overall. And of course that its my favorite anime. And thats not gonna change.
It's a good pick for a personal "gateway anime," unique, not mega popular, and overall great
i'm happy to see this anime is still relevant and people still talk about it. this is one of my favorite shows ever made, live action shows included.
I'm glad I'm able to fill a niche and bring a bit more of it to you and others! : D
If the series continues I would imagine rock would become like Walter White in some ways, probably using revy as a pawn for him until she’s no longer any use to him.
Well, so far he's still on the twilight (manga-wise). And we're one and a half arc in. Overall he assumed this form of existing, being in the twilight, but still making plans to get the best out of every situation, all while aware of the responsibility of his absolute freedom.
Besides, that, we also see his relationship with Revy improving. Not as toxic as it was in the OVA.
Nah I don't think he'll be that bad
There’s always that 7% chance will get season 3 or another OVA of the manga material
I'll take it, there's at least some chance
@@ProfessorViral can you please review black clover and fire force because they're really underrated they're great series in my opinion
@@ProfessorViral they deserve more attention
@@saudbintalib2567 Black Clover is actually OVERrated, there is nothing really meaningful in it, it's just a pure shonen. I haven't seen Fire Force tho
@@gnhfhlghghfh688 bro Black Clover is meant for a younger audience just like any other Shonen yet people shit on it just because it has the tropes like can't we just let the new generation love Black Clover as much as they want because we're ruining their Shonen experience
I amazed how much you can analyze these scenes! I hope we get more Black Lagoon soon!
Honestly, me too. Sometimes it's just about starting to write a thought down, and seeing where it goes. I usually have 10 pages of notes on a 24 episode anime so I can catch all those thoughts! But, I'm happy to see you enjoyed, and I hope we get more too!
One interesting aspect of black lagoon's animation is their emphasis on the human teeth. The canines are longer to indicate characters' animalistic blood lust. Whenever Revy, Balalaika, the romanian twins, chang, Roberta and other small timers smile their teeth have longer canines because they are always up for some violence. You never see that in Rock's smile until he hatches the scheme to save Garcia. His facial features and canines are sharper, indicating his transformation into a feral beast is complete.
I think rock still has a chance to be pulled back up from the abyss but the crew are running out of time
Same here, every arc it feels less and less likely...
How? I think deep down Rock kind of like it....
I myself wouldn't see Rock as a Blank Bullet..more like the Wild Card, the Joker of the pack..
But what you have said about Chang was right on the money..Chang in a way is a character that we as the viewer know little about, apart from being an ex-cop who shot his partner and a boss in the Triads..
But back to Rock, he has in a way proven how dangerous his mind and his pride is when push comes to shove..in some parts, he would have made Chang sweat with some of his methods but he was ever so close to going over the edge..
This was a very enjoyable video on our favorite character..
i love your breakdowns and discussions. my love for the show makes me really thankful you made these
This whole series is such a well made action drama... the story arcs and characters are top shelf.
You do know the monga is being continued now
Oh so glad to find this channel talking about black lagoon. It's such a good anime, just recommendation to something up your alley to analyze an anime came out last year. It's called Id invaded, it's a psychological crime thriller mystery with a scifi element to the cases. I didn't see much ppl discussing it or even an analysis on it either
Hmm, sounds interesting enough. I'll give it a look and see if it's something for me!
Thank you for supporting the series again!! I love it too much. 💙
No problem, thanks for watching! Without you all I wouldn't be doing anything! : D
You are criminaly underviewed. Glad its starting to take off for you.
Thanks! : D I'm just happy to see people are enjoying the videos though!
How anyone could call Rock a wimp is beyond me. This man slowly became the very thing he said he wouldn't and did so with such ease. Like, shit he was cold blooded in Roberta's Blood Trail ain't give a fuck just wanted to see the results of all his planning. He's an actual strategic genius.
I think for early Rock, it's an oversimplification, but it works. I think it may be a comparison based thing for some people. He never picks up a gun like everyone else, so he's a "wimp," when it reality he has the most resolve
The way I look at rock, I see a man who's soul was weighed down with every failure, like an anchor dropping deep into the blackness. The cause of that was his unwillingness to undergo different means, yes He's developing less than prefable habits and is delving into the darkness willingly, but it's all insight with what he always wanted and aimed for.
His goal remained the same but the means changed, even if the process seems twisted, its a necessary evil. He's come to grips with that and acceptance of it. His ethical and moral approach to solving issues like obviously would have never worked in a million years. Dignity, sympathy, empathy, value beyond materialism and a willingness to do without seeking payment, mean nothing in a world which only acknowledges somethings immediate effect. Hedonistic to the end. As a saying goes
" in a massacre there is no decent place to stand "
And only after being screwed time and time again, He's come to that realization, and its based of that we can assess his decisions, shit and shitter, and that's all he has. I believe he still has his soul, just abit blemished and He's come to know in order to overcome the darkness at it's core, he'd have to cast an ever greater shadow to encompass it and never let anyone ever wonder into it ever again. I still believe there's much to this story, partially I blame it's finality on the anime because it made it seem far more final than what it actually was. And hopes that one day we'll see its end
Asking me personally? I think he'll succeed in his goal, hell he even might finally be free of the hedonistic cycle he keeps finding himself in and finally live a life He's long since desired, but with a taste for competition. You see, the ends justify the means, only when the ends truly do, and so I see all that rock did, or will do, as a necessary evil that will present a greater good. Will he die? With how the story is so far? Continuingly seeing that most of the deaths have always been external and just served a means for his character to grow and in turn help revy grow. Other than that I dont think so personally, at least based on what I've seen and I might be wrong. But I think if we're going down a metaphorical path, then yes he'll undoubtedly die, in the sense the rock we knew, and the rock revy knew, would no longer be. But that isn't a necessarily bad thing, he can grow, and finally actually achieve change ready to bear the weight of it and even finally, maybe even, free revy from the shackles of hate nihilsim, hedonism and materialism. I have hopes for an ending along these lines, after all, nothing lasts and change is a core theme of the story, so what's to say he won't bring change to roanapur and those around him? All is possible once you've come to grips with what change will cost you.
It still leaves a chance, of change
There is a lot under the surface, All I can say to keep it short;
Rock knows how to be an administrator, but he needs to know how to be an operator, his trick in the film was good, but needs to know "When to chamber a real round instead of a blank" and support Revy.
He can't keep running to her, be better if he would back her up, both in a fight and when she is having those moments.
Instead of her having to face the fire alone, better he is right beside her, don't have her stand alone.
But I find myself curious; How would Revy take it, Rock picking up and carrying a gun for her, that he would kill for her if her life was really in danger, and if they got into a shootout; he would not hide or run, He'd say: "I staying with you, however this ends".
Lastly; He could win, but that's the question How?
I had always wondered if Rock will one day ever go so far as to pick up a gun for the sake of others. It's popular fanfic idea for some reason. I suppose we'll have to wait and see what happens. I can't remember the name off the top of my head, but there was one really good fanfic where Rock chose to pick up a gun and give a drugged up dying child a mercy killing. It was dark but it made sense for Rock's character. He's not like Revy to go guns blazing, he's gonna start out slow and use it for when someone needs him to. In a different fanfic, Rock finally got a small peek at Revy's past and when the one night came where she wasn't strong enough to handle a problem with her own strength, he went into a, "I need a hero" sequence where he goes in killing for Revy's sake and tries to save her from a corrupt man who raped her when she was very little. Obviously, a sequence like that might be a bit much, but I like the idea of a corrupt well respected U.S. General as a black lagoon antagonist. Just some ideas they could try. See what sticks.
He stepped up and backed her up?
@@0570965 More or less. The biggest reason as to why this fanfic worked so well, was because Revy sort of got rewarded by opening herself up to Rock. Earlier in the fanfic, the Black Lagoon crew are in the middle of a job somewhere in a big city and Rock was supposed to show up in this business building for a sale exchange. However, it's revealed to be a setup and the business meeting was used as an ambush to get the corrupt U.S. General closer to Revy. He's pissed at her because when she was a child, she escaped from his abuse and shot his brother through a pillow so no one could hear it. As the Black lagoon are escaping the building, Revy had a slight slip up and didn't notice the weakened General had loaded his shotgun and he pulled the trigger. However, Rock noticed and quickly pushed Revy aside. Leading to him getting a serious wound in his chest. As the crew leave, Revy feels terrible as Rock had almost died back there. Out of the whole group, Revy was the only one who knew who the General was. Had she said something earlier, this whole mess could've been avoided. After the crew finds a hotel to stay for the night, Revy finally makes the tough decision to open herself up to Rock. Telling him that she was raped in Mott Street and how she came to know the General. Later on, this little info dump saved her life, because when the General captured Revy, he was feeling nostalgic and wanted to torture her in the same place they first met long ago. Most of the General's soldiers were in their base somewhere away from the city. The General's plan was to draw the Black Lagoon away from the city so he could take his time enjoying Revy if you get where I'm going with this. However, Rock saw through this plan and told Dutch and Benny to follow the General's troops to their base while he takes a different vehicle and drives off to Mott Street. After freeing Revy, Rock and her finally face off against the General and they both shoot him in the head. Jackpot (excuse my Devil May Cry reference). The story ends with them returning to Roanpur with Rock and Revy closer than they ever were before. Seriously, why is this not an arc yet? I'm usually not a fanfic fan if you get what I mean, but this guy frigging nailed it.
@@kokroughtoss1257 good one, maybe something like that would come around in the original, Rock and Revy will come together, and both will make it. As for the fanfiction, I be diving into it and see what happens. Thanks for the post
@@0570965 No problem. If you're looking for the fanfic, I believe it's specifically a Rock x Revy. So unfortunately you may have to slog through a lot of "bang booming" before you finally get to the good bits.
Man I still remember how depressed I was after i finished the last episode
I'm my opinion.. Black Lagoon has one of the greatest character development, most character shows visible changes as the series unfold.
Out of all the animes I've watched, only two had a great character development and one of those is Black Lagoon 😌
The OVA was just so much information, so much to pay attention just to keep up to. When I decided to binge Black Lagoon in my first view it was because I was hooked to all of the dark themes and the subtext of the dialogs and all the symbolism, thicc as a mix between crime film slangs and some anime storytelling/symbolism. But the OVA caught my senses off guard. It was really well made, but dense as well.
I love your videos on BL because they remove SO much of that brain fog. I don't know if you do videos on manga, but theres a whole new finished arc after the OVA. I could check it out.
I'm glad I'm able to help you take them in a bit more! : D Although I don't at the moment, I may make some manga content down the road when I'm more established!
Seriously it's crazy how I missed this master piece of an anime.
I think a lot of people could say the same, I missed it until a few months ago!
I do really love Rock's character development :) somehow it's becoming more and more disturbing, but soo goood tbh :)
the one thing i love about this show is that the story arcs arent the whole season, each season has 2-3 storylines, when most shows use just 1 plot line, per season. plus the top notch characters
Rocks arc is so intriguing.
He is, I loved how "real" he was, even in an anime that's exaggerated at points. The way his mind shifts feels genuinely like a man trying to screw over the world that wronged him, without being forced at all
Lost potential is how i view this anime; rev and rocks relationship could've been so insanely fascinating to see unfold, but we barely got to see that happen
Rock is to obsessed with his goal to see Revy, and Revy didn't want to see Rock for who he had become, because it was against what she wanted from him. It would also mean admitting to her weakness, which she would never do
True, you remind me reason why I stop watching it.
The minute he denied to cover up the twin was a major shift of character also remember when Dutch called him scary if he was completely dark.
Seeing Dutch be outright shocked by his behavior is one of the best notes of the OVA for sure
On an (almost) unrelated note to the video: it's buffling that there is still no Black Lagoon AMV on "Dead Inside" by Muse - the song lyrics correspond to the series' plot so well that I wouldn't be surprised if it was directly inspired by the show.
Rock didn’t descend into darkness though. At the end of Rubertas Blood Trail when you thought he lost it, it turned out he was trying to expose the evil. He just didn’t work. Not yet, because he’s gonna try again. He’s a light in a dark world but a light nonetheless.
He kinda played himself tho. I dont really like his attitude his hypocrisy is kinda nerve-wracking. He willingly joined a group of blood thirsty demons and claims to be a different breed. Like dude c'mon who are you kidding you are just as bad as them contributing to make the world a worst place. Each time he "tries" to save someone he fails miserably. I feel like he never invest 100% to the cause. He is afraid to wet himself, he couldve saved Yuki but instead watched her die in front of him. Anyways I just feel like he is a big hypocrite stucked in delusion of grandeur.
I just finished Black Lagoon and these vids have been so good for me
Glad you've found them enjoyable! : D
Great video, like the rest. Rock's struggling against the dying of the light arguably accelerated the coming of greater darkness not just in his life, but Roanapur.
This is so right about Rock. Once good, but I think this can happen to everyone (Yes you!) through the experiences he has witnessed made him consumed the darkness that others have been already consumed throughout the anime. However, because of Revy's angered personality, I think we all know (already mentioned) Revy has slightly (not a soft spot) but like a "cool down" to reflect on Rock's slip away to the darkness. This is really interesting to see because in this day and age, I see a similar scenario with AOT (Attack on Titan).
In conclusion, Rock or Rock? We'll never know, but we can all have ones individual opinion to this anime/manga because with this realistically bad ass anime, like this guy said, there's alot to talk about.
Thank you so much they were very mysterious about his mission and goals in Roberta Blood Trail
No problem, it took me a second to figure it out too!
@@ProfessorViral thank you after your videos I rewatch all Blood Trails episode it made sense
i love watching these black lagoon vids
Glad you've been enjoying them!
Really glad you followed up your last video. I liked the last one and I always had trouble with this special becuase of how it twisted rocks character but after watching this I can accept this as the unfortunate and natural evolution of his character.
Dude after when i found black lagoon was already finish it was like getting over a break up
I've had that with anime, but for me it's Psycho Pass and Tokyo Ghoul. I loved them, but they just changed so much it had to end T_T
Well, it is still going, atleast in manga form.
chang and rock is very similar only difference is chang started earlier and became accustomed faster
Very much so. But, it remains to be seen if Rock gives up fully on morality like Chang has, or if he keeps a "good" goal in mind for his actions
Man I'm sold, time to watch the anime
Had Rock gotten the Death Note, he would rule Roanapur easily
this is very true 🤣
He would change the world more crafty than light too.
Black lagoon is good fun gem my friend got me into it. Nice video I really want to rewatch black lagoon when I can
I'm happy to see you liked the video! Hopefully you'll get the time for a rewatch soon haha
Very well done. I can suggest you to watch and make a video about Jormungand. Similar dark anime, with better character progression (but possibly a bit worse world-building and depth).
Thanks! Also, I actually just started Jormungand today, so far I see a lot of potential in the characters!
When I first saw Black Lagoon. I knew he would slowly descend into there lvl. To became one of the bad guys.
It's almost survival; he has to, or he'd be eaten alive. He always manages to maintain just that bit of himself though
I was expecting him to get abs and tout a gun as Revy's right hand
There are some Animes I realy wanna see more of...
- Black Lagoon (Sequel)
- Jormungand (Sequel)
- Yukikaze (Sequel or Reboot)
- Patlabor
- Appleseed
- Gunslinger Girl (Sequel)
- Claymore (Sequel)
- Record of Lodoss War (Reboot)
- Gasaraki (Reboot)
- Blue Gender (Reboot)
- Broken Blade (Sequel)
Roanapur is a black hole.
Once within it's gravity It will for all but the lucky few pull you into it. Rock on his way down the event horizon uses his own gravity to slingshot a precious few free. Rock is a fallen hero, a robin hood turned murderous bandit yet still seeing the vestige of his former self. In season 1 he was caught, in two he tried using his gravity to fling a few of those he called good free only to see them sucked into the event horizon. In 3 he decides to fling himself inside to slingshot those he considers worth saving in the short term to have them play the long game after he dies. It's cold, calculated, manipulative, and bloody yet does it get it done?
Just got a subscribe my guy, rock is my dude and I love his development, I want him to be truly feared by even burn face herself 😁
Thanks for sticking around! Hes a great character for sure, and I'm happy people are enjoying the videos on him!
Really like your revi vid and this one you got me subscribed
I love this series for all it does I hope it will continue and have that same quality, but at the same time I'm scared for what might happen next
Chang has to be my favorite character in the anime
I like that he got more development in this one, because it also shows a bit more of Roanapur, and how people come to be the masters of it
This dude has the content quality of a million subs channel and doesn't even have 10k, it's criminal.
Thanks for the kind words! Although I wish I had more at times, I'm really just lucky to be where I am! : D
I dread the Day when Rock actually picks up a Gun
I have no idea if this is how it should/could go, but if they had him have to kill Revy for some grand plan or something like that, I think that would be the best way to make him someone who killed directly
Underrated Channel
Thank you! : D
Everyone thinks Rock was innocent at first but there are a few episodes that say different. One is when Revy and Etta are getting to shot each other, he reminds calm and talks to the old nun.
He minplated the talks, even the nun said Dutch has a good eye and with a little practice he will get better.
Another is when Beenie told Dutch he and Rock dont belong, Dutch said wrong he saw darkness in both of them.
He always belonged to Ranaper he just had to stop pretending to be good
3:20 I keep thinking there should be a comment on how Revy shouts to look at her during that scene.
I know rock hasn’t experienced her life but he’s kind of onto something this time and that’s why she reacts, he’s a mirror of her (snarls, sadistic enjoyment of the game and he’s carrying a gun even if it wasn’t him firing he’s stated he never wants to use one) in this case and it’s breaking the personality she’s been projecting onto him once he lets his darkest nature surfaces she tries to beat it instantly she even draws her gun and says leave because it’s breaking the image of the ‘hero’ as lil maid puts it she’s subconsciously labelled him as
Revy expected prince charming in white steed, and tough she got one. Only to find out it was a pale horse and the rider name death.
Coming back to this video after 3 years, I cant help but feel that Cyberpunk was partly inspired by BL, or the other way around. Roanapur and Night City are very similar at their core, even though on the outside, they couldnt be more different. And the way these cities affect their inhabitants is near identical.
I'm still in love with this manga/anime and its characters.
Thats the main topic of Black Lagoon that is hard to undetstand
Is it wired that I want that Revs and Rock have a happy end like them to go have a nice life ?
No, I do as well. I'm a sucker for true love happy endings.
I wouldlike to, but rhey enable each other too much.At least together, as fun as they are. And i love them.
Great Video, really good work!
Thanks, I'll try to! : D
So Rock goes down deeper into a black abyss to see how the world really is, to possibly become someone who has nothing to lose.
Ffs! My quality was like 480p and i couldnt change it...this looks great
You're gonna be big one day.
Thanks, I hope so! : D
im still waiting for that game show professor!
Can you do a video about next arc of Black Lagoon that is in the manga. I am not sure if you are interested in manga at all, however i would like to know your view on future development.
I would say that you were off about one part. Things didn't go the way Chang wanted them to as he wasn't the chess master anymore than Rock was, they went the way Eda and the CIA wanted. Chang, for all his own bravado is at the end of the day, just a playing piece on someone else's board.
As Eda reminds Chang(though he doesn't know it's her)
"You can make a person disappear, but we(the US) can destroy entire countries. We have no rival in this world."
The only Change loses his cool I might add.
This anime made me depressed in a way few other anime have. 9/10.