Ep 184. Popularity Polls Can...

Gintama Season 4 Episode 184: Popularity Polls Can...

In this episode of Gintama, titled "Popularity Polls Can...", the eccentric and comedic adventures of Gintoki Sakata and his friends continue in the peculiar city of Edo, which has been transformed by the Amanto, extraterrestrial beings who have taken over Japan.

The episode begins with the news of a popularity poll being conducted among the citizens of Edo to determine the most popular character in the city. As the news spreads, everyone becomes excited and determined to support their favorite character. Gintoki, being the carefree individual he is, not only shows immense disinterest but also mocks the idea of such a popularity contest.

While the rest of the city's characters actively campaign and gather support for the poll, Gintoki and his ragtag group of oddballs go on with their daily lives without paying much attention to the frenzy around them. However, little do they know that the poll will soon draw them into a hilarious and chaotic whirlwind.

As the poll gains momentum, candidates begin to emerge from all corners of Edo. The streets are filled with enthusiastic campaigners, each trying to persuade passersby to vote for their favorite character. People distribute flyers, wave flags, and even organize parades to garner attention. It becomes a battle of popularity, with each character trying to outshine the others and gain the highest number of votes.

Meanwhile, Gintoki finds himself accidentally caught up in the madness when he encounters Sachan, a kunoichi obsessed with him, handing out flyers. Despite his reluctance, Gintoki soon finds himself dragged into her campaign as she insists that he is the most beloved character in Edo. Together, they embark on a series of outrageous stunts and humorous skits to win over voters.

Alongside Gintoki's misadventures, the episode focuses on various other characters from Gintama's eclectic cast. Kagura, the powerhouse Yato girl, decides to run her own cheeky campaign in her own unique style. She takes to the streets with her umbrella, challenging every passerby to a fight in hopes of proving her popularity through victory.

Similarly, the persona-shifting Shinpachi, Gintoki's loyal sidekick, contemplates whether he should participate in the popularity contest at all. Being the serious and thoughtful individual he is, Shinpachi hesitates, fearing that he may not match up to the amusing and wild personalities around him.

As the episode progresses, the city becomes a battlefield of quirky characters vying for attention. Even the Shinsengumi, the city's police force, jump into the fray, attempting to gain popularity with their own unique strategies. From a charismatic Hijikata bestowing mayo on unsuspecting citizens to a bewildered Kondo parading around with a gorilla suit, they go to great lengths to win the hearts of the voters.

In the midst of the chaos, the episode also takes a lighthearted approach to explore the nature of popularity and the unpredictable factors that can influence it. It humorously delves into the absurdity of popularity contests themselves, showcasing how silly and arbitrary they can be.

"Popularity Polls Can..." exemplifies Gintama's trademark blend of comedy, satire, and heartwarming moments. With its witty dialogue, memorable characters, and zany situations, the episode delivers ample laughter and entertainment for both longtime fans and newcomers to the series.

Overall, this episode captures the spirit of Gintama, emphasizing the importance of friendship, humor, and embracing one's uniqueness in the face of popularity contests. So, join Gintoki and his friends in this delightfully absurd adventure as they navigate the wild world of Edo's popularity polls.