Grab a snack and settle in - I've got another monster of a video for you today! Is Komamura and Hisagi vs Tōsen the best fight in Bleach? Alright, probably not - but it's up there! What are your thoughts on this fight? Did both sides have a point, or is this a battle of good and evil? Let me know your thoughts!
Honestly? Might be. It's freaking awesome! It's up there with some of my other favorites like Byakuya vs Tsukishima and Ichigo vs Grimmjow (all fights lol)
Komamura and Hisagi vs Tousen is a worthy contender for best fight not only because it hits every aspect of what makes Bleach great: grand clashes of ideology, high melodrama, tremendous character writing that shines even when the plot writing falters, the ability of the author to elevate any character from his cast when he has the will to do so (no matter how little the audience is invested in them), character design as an essential storytelling tool, and lore/worldbuilding that always leaves the reader hungry for a deeper understanding and to see potential flourish in other characters. I mean, seriously, who didn't want to see Shinji or Ichigo's Resurrecion after this fight?!
Kaname sold his soul to literally gain sight for the first time, but figuratively became blinded by his pursuit for vengeance in the process. Very poetic. Kaname’s death is one of the most memorable deaths for me because of how sudden, gruesome, and emotional it is for Hisagi, Komamura, and Kaname.
@@ToolFloydChimeraExactly why I love the TYBW. Komamura did the EXACT same thing he preached to Tousen all for the fact Yamamoto took him in despite knowing of his clan, and for that was forever grateful. His death caused him to do WHATEVER it took to avenge Yamamoto and by Gaining “temporary” immortality. By doing this, he lost his morales, Sold his Humanity, and therefore like Tousen, cost him dearly.
One of the most emotional fights of the series. The fall of Tosen is tragic, as is the foreshadowing of how Sajin too would end up consumed by the desire for revenge. The final blow dealt by Hisagi was as brutal as it was poetic.
Agreed. Tosen is so dumbfounded and arrogant by his newfound Arrancar powers and vision, he became lax in his defenses. Ironically being far more *blind* in more ways than one and than he's ever been up to this point.
Me too. Kubo does seem to like him, tbh. It's just he never had a fight where he won. But if we think about it, neither has Hitsugaya, and yet people love him. The majority of shonen readers seem to like only the strongest characters.
No, Gin's death is definitely more emotionally high. This fight is more emotionally *charged. But the characters aren't fully expressing their emotions outwardly, which limits the range we feel with them.
Well so far the recent tybw anime has been fixing that. Doing most of the characters some justice and likely more in the latter. Which is good I especially hope Ichigo gets the same treatment too, like a big one. It was bs how the final battle played out. Of course it was due to Kubo’s poor health but still it was so bad that since then the series has been hardly talked about almost forgotten.
@briankao6833 the anime is definitely doing a good job but I feel like the pacing is bad. Like the Espada arc they got episodes of fights for each Espada and for the tybw almost every sternritter is defeated in like 5 maybe 10 minutes max. I know there's a lot of them but it honestly makes them feel like fodder when they get beat that fast
This was a Shakespearean tragedy from beginning to end. To think Tosen once was an idealistic Shinigami who had his idealism ground down and destroyed by a certain homicidal nobleman who showed him the real ugliness at the heart of Soul Society's 'justice'. Then Aizen showed up at the cemetery. Tosen's gradual change and twisted take on justice certainly was anticipated by that lunatic Tokinada, it's his M.O.
Suzumushi is Tousen's Zanpakuto, but the Asauchi once belonged to Tousen's friend. Whether it represents his inner desires or his bond with the friend he seeks justice for, Suzumushi is almost certainly on Tousen's side. "... totally fused his hollow and shinigami powers" - I'm pretty sure it's less about fusing them (which he might've done, since he was a willing Vizard) and more about the Zanpakuto spirit being the form one takes when they become a hollow. The Resurreccion he uses should be, in effect, a form of Suzumushi. It makes perfect sense he's a fly - he's the Beelzebub to Gin's Satan/Samael (or some other snake demon) and Aizen's Lucifer
So glad that more people have picked up on this subtext. To me, Aizen could be considered the greatest representation of the Morning Star. No horns. No red skin. Not even a dark suit. Just a man with a soothing, yet menacing presence.
This fight was poetic justice at its finest wow! I actually shedded a tear because of this, the dialogue between all 3 of them about justice, morals, tragedy, friendship is absolutely amazing! The hypocrisy and foreshadowing of the future as well was peak Kubo! Very emotional intelligent writing!
The two most interesting things that Tom has taught me about this Manga are as follows: 1. Kubo's talent as an artist is basically second to none (especially his character designs) 2. Sajin Komamura is one of the most underrated characters in not just Bleach, but any Manga I've ever had the pleasure of reading!! Thanks Tom you da man!!
When i was reading the series for the first time last year i remember getting to the "you're even uglier than i imagined" panel, and i just had to lay back on my chair as i took it all in, i felt and still feel so bad for Komamura, it's such a hard panel filled with emotion and the way Kubo drew Komamura's face hurts so much
This might come off as a bit random, but Sajin's English voice actor did a fantastic job and he was perfect for the role. Not only he had a soothing and stoic voice that matched Sajin;s character but his line delivery with the emotions behind them was very well done. Sajin as a character is a bit hit and miss but this sub plot allowed him to shine.
Great analysis I didn't really appreciate this fight at the time it came out but CFYOW and Sajin's arc in TYBW really recontextualizes it and strengthens it retroactively. One thing that I was never clear on was Tousen's relationship with Suzumushi, it was Kakyo's blade originaly but she never imprinted on it? I was never clear on that, knowing the nature of the "Blade is Me" stuff in TYBW. I always thought Suzumushi itself was also angry at what transpired and they adopted each other in the quest or revenge, back when we thought Zanpakuto and Shinigami were seperate.
Thank you kindly for this video in particular. I've always considered this to be the best fight in the entirety of Bleach. Emotionally charged. Flawlessly foreshadowed. Tragic yet beautiful
I really liked this longer, very in depth look at a singular battle in the series. This was a great video, crazy how you got such a long video out of a 'short' battle, again great video, always look forward to your uploads.
Easily one of the best, and most complete fights in the series. It has great action, heavy motivations on all sides, emotional weight, and symbolic meaning. It’s really a complete package.
Thats another reason why i love Aisen, even though Tosen failed, he still (in a way) granted Tosen's request to not die as a shinigami. To me, it adds a human layer to Aisen.
Emotionally and for multiple characters development, it was a good fight. However, the actual fight itself reminds me of when Goku gets ahead in a fight, drops his guard, and gets killed/severely wounded by something he could've easily blocked if he wasn't an idiot
Let’s be honest this fight we expected so much from hisagi and then Kubo pulled a “ a sweet summer child you”. Seriously what did he do to deserve such a fall from grace
One of the best shorter fights in the series. Alot is packed in and perhaps the fact it isn't drawn out benefits it. As a fellow Komamura fan I am always pleased when he gets a cool showing, though it's always brief it's also usually cool.
Sajin is one of my favourite captains. Even though he was not as powerful as the other high class Captains, the blind loyalty he held towards the SS and his sacrifice to protect it made him unforgettable. Iba was a vice captain seen as a meme and joke but the way he held his captain high when he was at his lowest point gave me tears. Would love to see more on Beast Realm!
I’m just gonna say it, I think Kaname Tousen is the best designed character Kubo ever made. He has SO MANY designs that all slap so hard, with my favorite being his first hollowfied form.
I’ll admit, I was one of those who thought Tousen’s transformation into a giant bug monster was underwhelming, but over time I’ve grown to appreciate what it represents. With his newly acquired Resurrection, his ugly appearance now matches what he’s always felt.
I always pictured Komamura's face when Tōsen called him ugly to be an expression of "really, dude?", like he can't believe that in such a heartfelt, important battle, his opponent would resort to such cheap pettiness. "Really, man? That's what you're trying to do now? What, you expect me to try and insult your mother now to get back at you or something?" Really, that tired face Komamura makes is way too good
It's so weird to think that they never talked again in the canon manga. Soi Fon deserved some closure in the final arc while helping Yoruichi fight Askin, I think.
@@kevintanza6968as a positive to that it does show that the anime does soifon’s character a bit of an injustice flanderizing her character by making her whole character around simping over yoruichi in all the anime exclusive content. When really she’s a lot more of a dignified character in the manga most of the time.
Personally, I loved this fight during my first run, and now looking back at it analyzing the whole thing, I loved it even more then ever. Wished that the fight could’ve been expanded upon. Just like you, I’m biased when it comes to Komamura. Because he’s my favorite out of the captain group of the Gotei.
I love that you mentioned tousen's mouth being visible below the mask to really make him seem like a hollow. Something Kubo doesn't even do to Ichigo in his fight with Ulquiorra when fully hollowified.
For me this is in the top 10 fights in all of bleach, it wasn't just fighting because they're on opposite sides but a battle of like you said komamura and hisagi trying desperately to save tosen as a friend from going over the edge as he goes further and further into darkness and tosen fighting for his own sense of justice after everything he went through at the hands of soul society
I truly enjoy this fight, mainly for it's deep meaningfulness and the character development that all three fighters get. Now I understand all the foreshadowing and implications it has in Komamura's future.
It's funny how despite his lack of popularity, both of Komamura's fights in the series have gotten far better treatment than most of his contemporaries. In FTK, his fight was the only one that felt like a complete and proper fight, not ending on a baffling antclimax like Halibel, Starrk, or even AIZEN's fights. In TYBW, his fight against Bambietta was one of the very few that didn't feel like it was rushed or dragged on for too long. It goes to show that if Kubo feels like it, he can give even unpopular characters good treatment. Unfortunately he just doesn't seem to feel the same about the vizards, fullbringers, or even the arrancar.
I already thought sajin was cool but this fight is what cemented him as one of my favorite bleach characters reall wish he got treated a bit better in the overall story but still a cool characters
Rewatched the fight recently. Definitely appreciate it more with the extra content provided by CFYOW. I didnt appreciate Tousen and Komamura back then but they are some of the most dedicated and tragic characters in the series with amazing motivations.
Love the fight analysis series. Would love to see the fight of the child geniuses Hitsugaya vs Ichimaru analyzed. It was underrated imo since neither said the holy word “BANKAI”
So funny you highlighted this right because when I read it when it first got translated to English week to week I found it to be such an interesting fight
Some of my most favorite characters. This was absolutely one of my most anticipated confrontations in the series. Even though I was also disappointed that we didn’t get tosens Bankai use on a non berserker opponent, I can’t say I’m upset that he got this level of attention and didn’t get off screened like I fear he would. With all the emotion, history, scale, twist, and body horror, I’d certainly say this fight embodies everything that Bleach skirmishes have to offer 🤩
One thing interesting about Tousen's Resurrección is that the horns and chains on his back resemble Komamura's bankai horn and Hisagi's shikai. This may mean that those two still hold a place in Tousen's heart even if he does his best to try and push them away.
Komamura is my absolute favorite character in Bleach (well, with Kensei and Ulquiorra👀). And Hisagi is a close second. Their fight with Tosen has always been one of my favorites
Tosen always had the best drip in the series... i also liked his resurrecion. when i saw it i thought of the demon Beelzebub (which means "Lord of the flies")
Considering what we learn of Tousen in the novels it's more tragic now how we saw him go once Komamura started opening Tousen's eyes(figuratively)that he at least has Komamura and Hisagi who still believe in him. To think Tousen hated Soul Society so much that he made a promise to Aizen that if he were to be swayed that he wanted Aizen to kill him. At first we probably thought Aizen did it just to make Komamura lower his guard into attacking. That fight certainly was one of my favorites due to the emotional tension between Tousen and Komamura throughout it.
10/10 best fight. I'm glad the anime expanded on this fight too. I think something that holds this back in the community is the surface level stuff which is a shame. Yes Komamura gets bodied, yes Tosen's final form is ugly, yes there's less involved parties in this fight than any of the FKT espada. Ironically however, on that same surface level we see Tosen do what was expected out of the espada, to dominate their opponents with a unique and monstrous power.
The metaphors in this fight aren't subtle. Tosen saw more as a blindman than he did when he "chose" to see only what he wanted to. Seeing how loyal Komamura was not only to the Soul Society, but Yamamoto, and even his own bestial grandad, it's not hard to see how this battle tore him apart on the inside and made him lose all self regard and respect in TYBW. It's a really poignant character arc. "If society is going to be unjust, the path with least blood is the path that destroys this society" vs "Justice can't be justice if it comes at the cost of betrayal". Komamura has the moral highground because he is right that Tosen chose injustice to fight injustice; but that doesn't remove Tosen's point. One thing tho, that has always intrigued me about Tosen is the workings of his Zampakuto. We know he stole the Zampakuto of his friend on her funeral. I've always wondered if that affected what Tosen's shikai and bankai were, if that at any point was considered borrowed power and if Tosen could maybe have had a second one. My guess is no, because we know all powers are related to one's own sould, but his circumstances are rather unique. I would have liked to see it explored more.
I will always respect Kubo for giving his side characters moments like this. Yes, characters like the Vizards and Chad should have gotten more from their respective journeys in the series but he always tried to give other people a moment to shine and not make it "The Ichigo Show".
Komamura and Tosen were some of my favorite characters from their introductions :) even tho they did get heavily outshined by other flashier characters, i liked them :)
I would have loved for each Fighter to point out the others flaws in their shikai and bankai, thereby calling out their internal flaws when it comes to justice. This would give Blood War Arc Komamura to reflect upon before removing his own heart and perhaps a call back scene to Tosen.
49:03 made me laugh quite a lot: "virtue isn't justice". Of course in Bleach and in this scene it definitely is not. However, the module that I am taking on Plato this term has had me learning the complete opposite.
Great video as always that goes without saying at this point. But one thing that I'll say is my favorite line in this fight. How Hisagi tells Tousen that if he as still blind he would've dodged his attack.
I’m glad to finally hear someone compliment tosen. He’s always been one of my favorites and he’s way too slept on. I feel like people forget how easily he cut off Grimmjows arm and without him even noticing lol at a time we’re Grimmjow was bodying Ichigo.
Actions speak the loudest and Komamura was cappin when he was saying he'd be lost without Tosen. Nah he was sad about losing a friend, but we truly see him get lost when Yama died. He beat up his caln elder to learn a jutsu, ripped his heart out of his chest, and served it to the elder in a fancy dog bowl. Only to be cursed to be a wolf from then on for falling prey to the same trap as Tosen. Which really shows he talked all that talk when Hisagi saved him from dying, but learned nothing in the end and paid for it. I like this writing from Kubo. To me it comes across like a more poetic in lore way of depicting the idea of playing stupid games wins you stupid prizes. Maybe I'm wrong, but it's something I've thought of for years lol
41:50 Suzumushi, was not Captain Tôsen's blade. not originally. Suzumushi, was the Zanpakuto of the woman who was betrayed & murdered by her husband. Suzumushi, was the Zanpakuto of Captain Tôsen's dearly departed friend. one can imagine, that if Suzumushi felt anything toward Soul Society & Shinigami, it was the very same hatred that Captain Tôsen felt. the very same fear of assimilation. not a blind acceptance, but an active participant. in fact, i almost wonder if Suzumushi played a part in Kaname's corruption.... it's hatred feeding his. 1:09:17 something else interesting is just how much they paralleled each other. Captain Komamura hid his appearance his whole life, hiding behind a mask. hating what he looked like. Captain Tôsen, wore some form of eyewear. allowing the world to see what he looked like, but particularly; that he's blind. Captain Komamura's appearance was revealed in the previous arc, laid bare for all to see. his "monstrous" appearance evident. his whole journey resembles that of an Arrancar. and at the end he even gains a human form, just like a true Arrancar. and more powerful as result, however, it comes at a cost. and that power, leads to his downfall. just like Tôsen, in this arc. who is a much more perfect hybrid of Shinigami, and Hollow. much like an Arrancar. they say Bleach repeats itself. but while it doesn't do that, it does tend to rhyme. it's an illustrated poem, not a manga
My biggest problem with this fight is that we didn't get majority of Tosen backstory until CFYOW came out (as well as the real reason why Aizen killed him) because without that context his motivation feels rather shallow but other than that it was definitely a good fight
I always loved this fight. It's just unfortunate that it's all downhill for shuhei from here. That stab, then release of kazeshini to finish off tosen was always a huge baller move
37:00 It's really twisted that Tosen helps with Hisagi's fear of fighting which stems from a traumatic event during Hisagi's academy days which Tosen and his master caused.
I remember watching this fight in the anime, really it's such a great fight that gives you plenty to think on. As a side bar, I'm curious about what the Vizards ressurections could be/look like. We know some of their Zanpakto and what all their mask look like so there could be something to consider
It is clear that Kubo took inspiration from religion in the creation of Bleach. This fight painfully reflects that when one of the calmest and most seemingly enlightened captains joins the dark side, gets actual eyesight, and loses that enlightenment. His fall from grace because of something he wished to have for a long time was Tousen's biggest flaw. This is also reflected in his friend Komamura who gave up his heart for humanity, only to turn into a beast of vengeance.
I actually really love the scene where Tosen gets his sight. It really does show just how absolutely lost he is, cruel and petulant to those he once called friends. Really powerful stuff. Tosen may have been the third string out of the traitor captains and never really had a good showing in battle (He only ever 'defeated' a powerless Quincy, lost to Zaraki) but this whole scene was some of the most emotional character interaction in the series. Also, I've just noticed something odd. All three of the major black characters in Bleach are men who start out as cool and stoic, only to turn into frantic zealouts. A strange coincidence.
This is one of my favorite Bleach fights it’s so epic and emotional. If there was one thing I could change about this fight is for Tosen to use his shikai powers at the start before he goes on to using his hollow form.
While Sajin and Kaname are not very popular captains I still strongly believe they received the deapest character development in entire fake karakura town arc. The amount complexity in this fight was just outstanding.
This is the 2nd best battle to me. Tammy vs Kenpachi and Byakuya served to be more funny than anything, I think it eas there to lighten the mood. Because right after you get this heavy battle of ideals. After finishing Bleach and talking about CFYOSW, then re reading or watching this fight, the gravitas of this situation is even more important. I love this fight
Love this fight, Tosens hollowfied form is genuinely the creepiest in the series, even more so than As Nodt. Only knock is that Tosen gets ‘forgiven’ way too quickly imo
Grab a snack and settle in - I've got another monster of a video for you today! Is Komamura and Hisagi vs Tōsen the best fight in Bleach? Alright, probably not - but it's up there! What are your thoughts on this fight? Did both sides have a point, or is this a battle of good and evil? Let me know your thoughts!
Honestly? Might be. It's freaking awesome! It's up there with some of my other favorites like Byakuya vs Tsukishima and Ichigo vs Grimmjow (all fights lol)
This fight just reminds me how done dirty Komamura was in the 1000 year blood war arc.
This fight and Ichigo vs Ulquiorra are objectively the 2 best fights in Bleach.
Komamura and Hisagi vs Tousen is a worthy contender for best fight not only because it hits every aspect of what makes Bleach great: grand clashes of ideology, high melodrama, tremendous character writing that shines even when the plot writing falters, the ability of the author to elevate any character from his cast when he has the will to do so (no matter how little the audience is invested in them), character design as an essential storytelling tool, and lore/worldbuilding that always leaves the reader hungry for a deeper understanding and to see potential flourish in other characters. I mean, seriously, who didn't want to see Shinji or Ichigo's Resurrecion after this fight?!
Would love to see a video on possible Vizard Ressurecion videos!
And do you think Ichigo’s Vasto Lord state was his Ressurecion?
Kaname when he realizes the error of his ways:
“How could I have been so Blind?!?”
You got a chuckle out of me, I admit it.
😂
Most of the time comments don't get me to laugh but this one did 😂
Kaname sold his soul to literally gain sight for the first time, but figuratively became blinded by his pursuit for vengeance in the process. Very poetic. Kaname’s death is one of the most memorable deaths for me because of how sudden, gruesome, and emotional it is for Hisagi, Komamura, and Kaname.
Amen to that
What would u have done
TYBW Komamura forgets the lesson of Tosen and goes down the same path
@@ToolFloydChimerathat's what makes his character so tragic.
@@ToolFloydChimeraExactly why I love the TYBW. Komamura did the EXACT same thing he preached to Tousen all for the fact Yamamoto took him in despite knowing of his clan, and for that was forever grateful.
His death caused him to do WHATEVER it took to avenge Yamamoto and by Gaining “temporary” immortality. By doing this, he lost his morales, Sold his Humanity, and therefore like Tousen, cost him dearly.
One of the most emotional fights of the series. The fall of Tosen is tragic, as is the foreshadowing of how Sajin too would end up consumed by the desire for revenge.
The final blow dealt by Hisagi was as brutal as it was poetic.
Agreed
I love these details so much
@@cronex7660
You and me both
Hisagi's "you could have dodged this before..." before finishing him is just so chilling
One of the best scenes in the entire series. Said so much with so few words
Agreed. Tosen is so dumbfounded and arrogant by his newfound Arrancar powers and vision, he became lax in his defenses. Ironically being far more *blind* in more ways than one and than he's ever been up to this point.
This fight needs more love in the community. If the CFYOW ever gets animated this storyline will finally reach its intense conclusion
When Tosen called him ugly, Komamura was literally not mad just disappointed. Some of Kubo's best art, which is saying something.
I always liked Sajin, even though he gets dumped on a lot.
Me too. Kubo does seem to like him, tbh. It's just he never had a fight where he won. But if we think about it, neither has Hitsugaya, and yet people love him. The majority of shonen readers seem to like only the strongest characters.
Amazing character that unfortunately lost the “Kubo treating them well” lottery
Sajin was also my favorite character. In the anime and mobile game
@@antoj.5119 Yep, the "he or she is OP, therefore he or she is good" reasoning is weird to me beyond the "it looks cool" argument.
@antoj.5119 wdym he definitely won a few fights?
This fight is by far the most emotional in the series. Definitely well directed and paced as well. There are so many good lines too.
No, Gin's death is definitely more emotionally high. This fight is more emotionally *charged. But the characters aren't fully expressing their emotions outwardly, which limits the range we feel with them.
@@gamewriteeye769 keyword, "fight"
@@skeltaldelegate5408 Gin still fought Aizen, even if he died in Rangiku's arms. Still a fight, however. But yes, better than Tosen's death.
Beside the light novel, this fight was Hisagi's greatest moment. So great in fact that Kubo had do him dirty in the tybw.
Kubo did like 80% of characters dirty in tybw
@@jims7773yeah it's pretty bad when even ichigo gets done dirty for like the second half of tybw
Well so far the recent tybw anime has been fixing that. Doing most of the characters some justice and likely more in the latter. Which is good
I especially hope Ichigo gets the same treatment too, like a big one. It was bs how the final battle played out. Of course it was due to Kubo’s poor health but still it was so bad that since then the series has been hardly talked about almost forgotten.
@briankao6833 the anime is definitely doing a good job but I feel like the pacing is bad. Like the Espada arc they got episodes of fights for each Espada and for the tybw almost every sternritter is defeated in like 5 maybe 10 minutes max. I know there's a lot of them but it honestly makes them feel like fodder when they get beat that fast
@@jims7773 Well I heard that the pacing will be improved in the later cours so here's hoping.
This was a Shakespearean tragedy from beginning to end. To think Tosen once was an idealistic Shinigami who had his idealism ground down and destroyed by a certain homicidal nobleman who showed him the real ugliness at the heart of Soul Society's 'justice'. Then Aizen showed up at the cemetery. Tosen's gradual change and twisted take on justice certainly was anticipated by that lunatic Tokinada, it's his M.O.
Aizen actually appear right after Tokinada mock him/beat him up but the rest of you is quite true about Tosen as a character.
Suzumushi is Tousen's Zanpakuto, but the Asauchi once belonged to Tousen's friend. Whether it represents his inner desires or his bond with the friend he seeks justice for, Suzumushi is almost certainly on Tousen's side.
"... totally fused his hollow and shinigami powers" - I'm pretty sure it's less about fusing them (which he might've done, since he was a willing Vizard) and more about the Zanpakuto spirit being the form one takes when they become a hollow. The Resurreccion he uses should be, in effect, a form of Suzumushi.
It makes perfect sense he's a fly - he's the Beelzebub to Gin's Satan/Samael (or some other snake demon) and Aizen's Lucifer
So glad that more people have picked up on this subtext. To me, Aizen could be considered the greatest representation of the Morning Star. No horns. No red skin. Not even a dark suit. Just a man with a soothing, yet menacing presence.
This fight was poetic justice at its finest wow! I actually shedded a tear because of this, the dialogue between all 3 of them about justice, morals, tragedy, friendship is absolutely amazing! The hypocrisy and foreshadowing of the future as well was peak Kubo! Very emotional intelligent writing!
The two most interesting things that Tom has taught me about this Manga are as follows: 1. Kubo's talent as an artist is basically second to none (especially his character designs) 2. Sajin Komamura is one of the most underrated characters in not just Bleach, but any Manga I've ever had the pleasure of reading!! Thanks Tom you da man!!
When i was reading the series for the first time last year i remember getting to the "you're even uglier than i imagined" panel, and i just had to lay back on my chair as i took it all in, i felt and still feel so bad for Komamura, it's such a hard panel filled with emotion and the way Kubo drew Komamura's face hurts so much
He isn't even hurt at Tosen's words, it's the sheer fall from grace of his friend that hurts.
@@okaminokuro for real, the moment he said he could see and started looking around i was saying to myself "don't say he's ugly, don't say it"
Easily one of my favorite bleach fights so great thematically
This might come off as a bit random, but Sajin's English voice actor did a fantastic job and he was perfect for the role. Not only he had a soothing and stoic voice that matched Sajin;s character but his line delivery with the emotions behind them was very well done. Sajin as a character is a bit hit and miss but this sub plot allowed him to shine.
Genuinely one of my favorite fights/moments of the series, I appreciate the emotions as much as the action for Shonen in general
I really love how creative kubo gets with Tousen's hair, he does a great job of showing the diversity of black hair!
This fight and Tosen are so underrated.
Perhaps my all time favorite Bleach battle. As a kid, When Tosen started absolutely destroying Komamura i was speechless. Top tier action in this one!
Great analysis
I didn't really appreciate this fight at the time it came out but CFYOW and Sajin's arc in TYBW really recontextualizes it and strengthens it retroactively.
One thing that I was never clear on was Tousen's relationship with Suzumushi, it was Kakyo's blade originaly but she never imprinted on it? I was never clear on that, knowing the nature of the "Blade is Me" stuff in TYBW.
I always thought Suzumushi itself was also angry at what transpired and they adopted each other in the quest or revenge, back when we thought Zanpakuto and Shinigami were seperate.
Thank you kindly for this video in particular. I've always considered this to be the best fight in the entirety of Bleach. Emotionally charged. Flawlessly foreshadowed. Tragic yet beautiful
I really liked this longer, very in depth look at a singular battle in the series. This was a great video, crazy how you got such a long video out of a 'short' battle, again great video, always look forward to your uploads.
Easily one of the best, and most complete fights in the series. It has great action, heavy motivations on all sides, emotional weight, and symbolic meaning. It’s really a complete package.
Thats another reason why i love Aisen, even though Tosen failed, he still (in a way) granted Tosen's request to not die as a shinigami. To me, it adds a human layer to Aisen.
This is part of the reason Tousen is my favourite character in Bleach.
Emotionally and for multiple characters development, it was a good fight. However, the actual fight itself reminds me of when Goku gets ahead in a fight, drops his guard, and gets killed/severely wounded by something he could've easily blocked if he wasn't an idiot
Let’s be honest this fight we expected so much from hisagi and then Kubo pulled a “ a sweet summer child you”. Seriously what did he do to deserve such a fall from grace
One of the best shorter fights in the series. Alot is packed in and perhaps the fact it isn't drawn out benefits it. As a fellow Komamura fan I am always pleased when he gets a cool showing, though it's always brief it's also usually cool.
Sajin is one of my favourite captains. Even though he was not as powerful as the other high class Captains, the blind loyalty he held towards the SS and his sacrifice to protect it made him unforgettable.
Iba was a vice captain seen as a meme and joke but the way he held his captain high when he was at his lowest point gave me tears.
Would love to see more on Beast Realm!
I’m just gonna say it, I think Kaname Tousen is the best designed character Kubo ever made. He has SO MANY designs that all slap so hard, with my favorite being his first hollowfied form.
I’ll admit, I was one of those who thought Tousen’s transformation into a giant bug monster was underwhelming, but over time I’ve grown to appreciate what it represents. With his newly acquired Resurrection, his ugly appearance now matches what he’s always felt.
Thank you so much tommo. I've waited for this analysis forever!
I always pictured Komamura's face when Tōsen called him ugly to be an expression of "really, dude?", like he can't believe that in such a heartfelt, important battle, his opponent would resort to such cheap pettiness.
"Really, man? That's what you're trying to do now? What, you expect me to try and insult your mother now to get back at you or something?"
Really, that tired face Komamura makes is way too good
My most favourite is literally Soi fon vs Yoruichi. Just all round decent with a nice background on one of my most favourite characters.
It's so weird to think that they never talked again in the canon manga. Soi Fon deserved some closure in the final arc while helping Yoruichi fight Askin, I think.
@@kevintanza6968as a positive to that it does show that the anime does soifon’s character a bit of an injustice flanderizing her character by making her whole character around simping over yoruichi in all the anime exclusive content. When really she’s a lot more of a dignified character in the manga most of the time.
A Tommo video is worth every minute. Your work always gives me an appreciation for characters I otherwise don't care much about.
Man, I've followed you since fairly early on. Your growth as a creator has been beautiful. Well done, truly well done!
Personally, I loved this fight during my first run, and now looking back at it analyzing the whole thing, I loved it even more then ever. Wished that the fight could’ve been expanded upon. Just like you, I’m biased when it comes to Komamura. Because he’s my favorite out of the captain group of the Gotei.
I love that you mentioned tousen's mouth being visible below the mask to really make him seem like a hollow. Something Kubo doesn't even do to Ichigo in his fight with Ulquiorra when fully hollowified.
The contrast between tosens ideals of fear in battle and uraharas teachings to ichigo are interesting
Great video!! Your battle analysis videos are really well done. Keep up the great work
For me this is in the top 10 fights in all of bleach, it wasn't just fighting because they're on opposite sides but a battle of like you said komamura and hisagi trying desperately to save tosen as a friend from going over the edge as he goes further and further into darkness and tosen fighting for his own sense of justice after everything he went through at the hands of soul society
love that his sight undoes his other hightened senses he had when he was blind, very poetic from Kubo. Awseome vid as always mate 👍
Great video man. This is one of BLEACH's best fights narrative wise but the choreography and powers are great as well.
I truly enjoy this fight, mainly for it's deep meaningfulness and the character development that all three fighters get. Now I understand all the foreshadowing and implications it has in Komamura's future.
Finally someone who appreciates this fight as much as I do 🙌🏻
The man without fear!🔥💯😎
It's funny how despite his lack of popularity, both of Komamura's fights in the series have gotten far better treatment than most of his contemporaries. In FTK, his fight was the only one that felt like a complete and proper fight, not ending on a baffling antclimax like Halibel, Starrk, or even AIZEN's fights. In TYBW, his fight against Bambietta was one of the very few that didn't feel like it was rushed or dragged on for too long. It goes to show that if Kubo feels like it, he can give even unpopular characters good treatment. Unfortunately he just doesn't seem to feel the same about the vizards, fullbringers, or even the arrancar.
I always found it funny when tosen said he's seen komamuras bankai a hundred times.😅 Great video 👍
Holy long video, thanks!
It definitely has one of the most savage kills in the series. Hisagi activating his shikai inside Tosen's head is nuts.
I already thought sajin was cool but this fight is what cemented him as one of my favorite bleach characters reall wish he got treated a bit better in the overall story but still a cool characters
Rewatched the fight recently. Definitely appreciate it more with the extra content provided by CFYOW. I didnt appreciate Tousen and Komamura back then but they are some of the most dedicated and tragic characters in the series with amazing motivations.
Love the fight analysis series. Would love to see the fight of the child geniuses Hitsugaya vs Ichimaru analyzed. It was underrated imo since neither said the holy word “BANKAI”
So funny you highlighted this right because when I read it when it first got translated to English week to week I found it to be such an interesting fight
Some of my most favorite characters. This was absolutely one of my most anticipated confrontations in the series. Even though I was also disappointed that we didn’t get tosens Bankai use on a non berserker opponent, I can’t say I’m upset that he got this level of attention and didn’t get off screened like I fear he would. With all the emotion, history, scale, twist, and body horror, I’d certainly say this fight embodies everything that Bleach skirmishes have to offer 🤩
ngl I cried hearing the end of this being explained by you this was the peak bleach for me
This is one of my favorite fights in the entire series, featuring my favorite characters.
One thing interesting about Tousen's Resurrección is that the horns and chains on his back resemble Komamura's bankai horn and Hisagi's shikai. This may mean that those two still hold a place in Tousen's heart even if he does his best to try and push them away.
Komamura is my absolute favorite character in Bleach (well, with Kensei and Ulquiorra👀).
And Hisagi is a close second.
Their fight with Tosen has always been one of my favorites
Tosen always had the best drip in the series... i also liked his resurrecion. when i saw it i thought of the demon Beelzebub (which means "Lord of the flies")
Considering what we learn of Tousen in the novels it's more tragic now how we saw him go once Komamura started opening Tousen's eyes(figuratively)that he at least has Komamura and Hisagi who still believe in him.
To think Tousen hated Soul Society so much that he made a promise to Aizen that if he were to be swayed that he wanted Aizen to kill him. At first we probably thought Aizen did it just to make Komamura lower his guard into attacking. That fight certainly was one of my favorites due to the emotional tension between Tousen and Komamura throughout it.
Really enjoyed this video
10/10 best fight. I'm glad the anime expanded on this fight too. I think something that holds this back in the community is the surface level stuff which is a shame. Yes Komamura gets bodied, yes Tosen's final form is ugly, yes there's less involved parties in this fight than any of the FKT espada. Ironically however, on that same surface level we see Tosen do what was expected out of the espada, to dominate their opponents with a unique and monstrous power.
Your videos butter My biscuits thank you
When tosen opened his eyes and called komomura ugly.... that was the moment he became irredeemable to me.
I love how Tousen tells Komamura not to act like a god when both he and Kumamura are both gods.
Kaname went down the dark path of revenge, his friend, Komamura, tried to stop him, only to go down the same path in TYBW.
The metaphors in this fight aren't subtle. Tosen saw more as a blindman than he did when he "chose" to see only what he wanted to.
Seeing how loyal Komamura was not only to the Soul Society, but Yamamoto, and even his own bestial grandad, it's not hard to see how this battle tore him apart on the inside and made him lose all self regard and respect in TYBW.
It's a really poignant character arc. "If society is going to be unjust, the path with least blood is the path that destroys this society" vs "Justice can't be justice if it comes at the cost of betrayal".
Komamura has the moral highground because he is right that Tosen chose injustice to fight injustice; but that doesn't remove Tosen's point.
One thing tho, that has always intrigued me about Tosen is the workings of his Zampakuto. We know he stole the Zampakuto of his friend on her funeral. I've always wondered if that affected what Tosen's shikai and bankai were, if that at any point was considered borrowed power and if Tosen could maybe have had a second one. My guess is no, because we know all powers are related to one's own sould, but his circumstances are rather unique. I would have liked to see it explored more.
I will always respect Kubo for giving his side characters moments like this. Yes, characters like the Vizards and Chad should have gotten more from their respective journeys in the series but he always tried to give other people a moment to shine and not make it "The Ichigo Show".
Komamura and Tosen were some of my favorite characters from their introductions :) even tho they did get heavily outshined by other flashier characters, i liked them :)
Same here, they are two of my favorite characters.
I would have loved for each Fighter to point out the others flaws in their shikai and bankai, thereby calling out their internal flaws when it comes to justice. This would give Blood War Arc Komamura to reflect upon before removing his own heart and perhaps a call back scene to Tosen.
49:03 made me laugh quite a lot: "virtue isn't justice". Of course in Bleach and in this scene it definitely is not. However, the module that I am taking on Plato this term has had me learning the complete opposite.
The way you explain things man. I'd love to hear you do so many more anime fights with this treatment.
Great video as always that goes without saying at this point. But one thing that I'll say is my favorite line in this fight. How Hisagi tells Tousen that if he as still blind he would've dodged his attack.
my favorite fight from the older bleach arcs!
No lie that “suspect” joke about Tosen’s hollow mask had me dying for a solid 10 minutes at least
It had it all - anime power ups, emotional ties, and conflicting philosophies. It really was a great battle.
Great analysis
I’m glad to finally hear someone compliment tosen. He’s always been one of my favorites and he’s way too slept on. I feel like people forget how easily he cut off Grimmjows arm and without him even noticing lol at a time we’re Grimmjow was bodying Ichigo.
Actions speak the loudest and Komamura was cappin when he was saying he'd be lost without Tosen. Nah he was sad about losing a friend, but we truly see him get lost when Yama died. He beat up his caln elder to learn a jutsu, ripped his heart out of his chest, and served it to the elder in a fancy dog bowl. Only to be cursed to be a wolf from then on for falling prey to the same trap as Tosen. Which really shows he talked all that talk when Hisagi saved him from dying, but learned nothing in the end and paid for it. I like this writing from Kubo. To me it comes across like a more poetic in lore way of depicting the idea of playing stupid games wins you stupid prizes. Maybe I'm wrong, but it's something I've thought of for years lol
Komamuro is the Piccolo of Bleach!!! They both have big entrances
41:50 Suzumushi, was not Captain Tôsen's blade. not originally. Suzumushi, was the Zanpakuto of the woman who was betrayed & murdered by her husband. Suzumushi, was the Zanpakuto of Captain Tôsen's dearly departed friend. one can imagine, that if Suzumushi felt anything toward Soul Society & Shinigami, it was the very same hatred that Captain Tôsen felt. the very same fear of assimilation. not a blind acceptance, but an active participant. in fact, i almost wonder if Suzumushi played a part in Kaname's corruption.... it's hatred feeding his.
1:09:17 something else interesting is just how much they paralleled each other. Captain Komamura hid his appearance his whole life, hiding behind a mask. hating what he looked like. Captain Tôsen, wore some form of eyewear. allowing the world to see what he looked like, but particularly; that he's blind. Captain Komamura's appearance was revealed in the previous arc, laid bare for all to see. his "monstrous" appearance evident. his whole journey resembles that of an Arrancar. and at the end he even gains a human form, just like a true Arrancar. and more powerful as result, however, it comes at a cost. and that power, leads to his downfall. just like Tôsen, in this arc. who is a much more perfect hybrid of Shinigami, and Hollow. much like an Arrancar.
they say Bleach repeats itself. but while it doesn't do that, it does tend to rhyme. it's an illustrated poem, not a manga
My biggest problem with this fight is that we didn't get majority of Tosen backstory until CFYOW came out (as well as the real reason why Aizen killed him) because without that context his motivation feels rather shallow but other than that it was definitely a good fight
In the anime you can actually see Hisagi take the step back
I always loved this fight. It's just unfortunate that it's all downhill for shuhei from here. That stab, then release of kazeshini to finish off tosen was always a huge baller move
"REAP... KAZESHINI" straight before the silhouette panel of Hisagi finishing off Tosen is my favourite sequence of panels in the series.
37:00 It's really twisted that Tosen helps with Hisagi's fear of fighting which stems from a traumatic event during Hisagi's academy days which Tosen and his master caused.
I remember watching this fight in the anime, really it's such a great fight that gives you plenty to think on.
As a side bar, I'm curious about what the Vizards ressurections could be/look like. We know some of their Zanpakto and what all their mask look like so there could be something to consider
I wish more people was involved in this fight. If kensai, mashiro, and hisagi was prominent I would not have a problem
While I see your point, I think it would have gotten a bit crowded.
You should do a Toshiro vs Rukia battle video and a Starrk vs Ulquiorra video. Also rank all of Byakuyas battles worse to best
What could rukia even do ? Or uliquora
@@TheDBLANCHARDagreed
It is clear that Kubo took inspiration from religion in the creation of Bleach. This fight painfully reflects that when one of the calmest and most seemingly enlightened captains joins the dark side, gets actual eyesight, and loses that enlightenment. His fall from grace because of something he wished to have for a long time was Tousen's biggest flaw. This is also reflected in his friend Komamura who gave up his heart for humanity, only to turn into a beast of vengeance.
I actually really love the scene where Tosen gets his sight. It really does show just how absolutely lost he is, cruel and petulant to those he once called friends. Really powerful stuff. Tosen may have been the third string out of the traitor captains and never really had a good showing in battle (He only ever 'defeated' a powerless Quincy, lost to Zaraki) but this whole scene was some of the most emotional character interaction in the series.
Also, I've just noticed something odd. All three of the major black characters in Bleach are men who start out as cool and stoic, only to turn into frantic zealouts. A strange coincidence.
This is one of my favorite Bleach fights it’s so epic and emotional. If there was one thing I could change about this fight is for Tosen to use his shikai powers at the start before he goes on to using his hollow form.
While Sajin and Kaname are not very popular captains I still strongly believe they received the deapest character development in entire fake karakura town arc. The amount complexity in this fight was just outstanding.
This fight has always been one of my favorites. I’m a fan of all three of them. I wish they had more time but it was satisfying nonetheless.
This is the 2nd best battle to me. Tammy vs Kenpachi and Byakuya served to be more funny than anything, I think it eas there to lighten the mood. Because right after you get this heavy battle of ideals.
After finishing Bleach and talking about CFYOSW, then re reading or watching this fight, the gravitas of this situation is even more important. I love this fight
Loved your analysis
Love this fight, Tosens hollowfied form is genuinely the creepiest in the series, even more so than As Nodt. Only knock is that Tosen gets ‘forgiven’ way too quickly imo