Macross 7 Season 1 Episode 26 Midnight Duet

As the twenty-sixth episode of the first season of Macross 7, "Midnight Duet" showcases some of the series' most thrilling action sequences and memorable character moments. In this episode, the crew of the Macross 7 battles against a group of enemy forces known as the Zentradi, who have infiltrated the Promenade section of the ship.

At the same time, wholesome romance and earnest friendship takes center stage, as the love triangle between Nanase, Basara, and Mylene comes to a head. Nanase has always secretly harbored feelings for Basara, the lead singer of the band Fire Bomber, and Mylene's childhood crush. Meanwhile, Mylene is struggling with her own feelings for Basara and is uncertain whether or not to confess her love for him. The series handles these emotional matters with sensitivity and respect, making sure to always prioritize the wellbeing of the characters above the potential for cheap drama.

The scenes featuring the attack on the ship are some of the show's best, with the crew utilizing their mechas to fight back against the enemy. There are explosions, laser blasts, and lots of aerial acrobatics that keep the stakes high and the animation exciting. As the battle rages on, the rest of the crew must evacuate to safety, and lucky for us, the show doesn't skimp on depicting the chaos that ensues. From the cramped walkways of the Promenade to the giant hangar bays, we see the civilians and the soldiers alike rushing to get to the escape pods before time runs out.

All the while, Basara refuses to abandon his beloved Valkyrie, insisting that he will play music to keep the Zentradi at bay. His dedication and bravery are commendable, but it's clear that Nanase is worried for his safety. Likewise, Mylene can't help but feel a touch of jealousy, seeing Basara and Nanase become closer during the mission. But ultimately, they all work together as a team to defeat the Zentradi and save the ship.

The episode's title, "Midnight Duet," refers to a beautiful scene between Nanase and Basara toward the end of the episode. As they play music together in a darkened hangar, the two share a moment of pure connection that transcends their romantic feelings for one another. It's a touching scene that reveals the true depth of their bond, and it showcases the power of music as a means of bringing people together.

Overall, "Midnight Duet" is a standout episode of Macross 7, with its thrilling action scenes, heartfelt character moments, and a killer soundtrack to tie it all together. Fans of the series will no doubt be delighted by this episode, and newcomers will find plenty to enjoy as well. There's a reason why Macross 7 is considered a classic in the world of anime, and this episode is a perfect example of why.