Gintama Season 1 Episode 118 Episode 118 - "Even if Your Back is Bent, Go Straight Forward"

Episode 118 of Gintama's first season, titled "Even if Your Back is Bent, Go Straight Forward," follows the daily lives of the Yorozuya trio - the protagonist Sakata Gintoki, the inseparable duo Shimura Shinpachi and Kagura - who run an odd-job business in the alien-infested city of Edo.

The episode opens with Gintoki preparing to take a nap in the park, only to be interrupted by Kagura's latest prank. Shinpachi rushes in and informs the trio about their next job - to deliver a letter to a terminally ill patient in the hospital. Usually, such a small task would be uneventful, but Gintoki and co. soon find out that the patient is none other than their previous landlord, Otose's husband, Jirocho Doromizu, the leader of a notorious yakuza gang.

Despite Jirocho's reputation, the trio decide to deliver the letter out of respect for Otose, who has been a motherly figure to them. Upon their arrival at the hospital, they find Jirocho in a weakened state and his gang members in distress, all lamenting the fall of their once-powerful organization. Gintoki, being the sarcastic clown he is, cracks jokes to lighten the mood and ease the tension. He shares some of his own struggles and tells them that even when one's back is bent, it's essential to keep moving forward. As the scene unfolds, it becomes apparent that Gintoki's quips and jabs ultimately help rally Jirocho's spirits, reminding him of the resilience he and his gang members possess within themselves.

Jirocho's illness soon takes a turn for the worse, and it is apparent that he does not have much time left. The Yorozuya trio, along with the yakuza members, gather together to enjoy one last feast while sharing stories of their past. Amidst the drinking and eating, Jirocho shares tales of his youth and tells his soldiers that he is proud of what they have accomplished, even if their power has waned. The jovial atmosphere is interrupted by the arrival of the yakuza syndicate, who come to claim Jirocho's land and territories.

A series of high-octane fight scenes ensue, showcasing Gintoki's skills against the yakuza syndicate's members. Kagura and Shinpachi join in the action, with the former taking on a giant alien while Shinpachi tries to hold off the hordes of yakuza members. The action segments blend seamlessly with the episode's emotional moments, as Jirocho watches the fight unfold, reflecting on his life. While the Yorozuya trio battles the yakuza syndicate, Jirocho has a conversation with Otose, his wife, about the things he regrets and wished he had done differently.

As the battle draws to a close, Jirocho acknowledges that his end is near and makes peace with it, having faith that his legacy will continue through his children and the yakuza members he left behind. Amidst tears and heartfelt goodbyes, Jirocho passes away, and the Yorozuya trio pay their respects to the man who had once been their landlord. In the final scene, Gintoki and co. take a solemn walk along the riverbank, reflecting on Jirocho's words of encouragement and the fleeting nature of life.

Overall, "Even if Your Back is Bent, Go Straight Forward" is an exceptional episode that balances humor and emotional depth seamlessly. It highlights Gintama's unique ability to deal with heavy subject matters in a lighthearted and humorous manner. The show isn't afraid to tackle tough issues, such as death and regrets, while still managing to make the audience laugh. The Yorozuya trio's journey is full of poignant moments like these, making it one of the most memorable anime series out there.