March Comes in Like a Lion Season 2 Episode 5 Episode 5

In the fifth episode of season 2 of March Comes in Like a Lion, we continue to follow protagonist Rei Kiriyama as he navigates the challenges of his professional and personal life.

The episode opens with a visually stunning sequence of Rei playing shogi (Japanese chess) in his mind against a variety of mythical creatures, all while a haunting melody plays in the background. This serves as a creative way to demonstrate Rei's thought process during the game and build tension for the viewer.

As the episode progresses, we see Rei struggling with the weight of his past and the pressure he faces in his shogi matches. His opponent in this episode, Shimada, is a seasoned veteran who has beat Rei in the past and is known for his aggressive play style. Rei worries that he will once again fall short, and the tension leading up to the match is palpable.

Alongside the shogi match, we also see Rei dealing with interpersonal conflict between himself and his adoptive family. His relationship with his adoptive sister, Hinata, has been somewhat strained in past episodes, and in this episode it comes to a head as they argue about their differing priorities in life. Despite the argument, it is clear that Hinata deeply cares for her brother, and there are hints of a potential reconciliation in their future.

The themes of isolation and loneliness that are present throughout the series resonate particularly strongly in this episode. Despite the support of his shogi peers and friends, Rei still feels an overwhelming sense of loneliness that he struggles to articulate. This feeling is echoed in his opponent Shimada, who reveals that he too has experienced great loneliness in his life despite his success in shogi.

As the shogi match reaches its climax, the tension builds to a fever pitch. The animation during these scenes is truly impressive, with beautiful shots of the board and characters' faces as they contemplate their moves. The resolution of the match is both satisfying and heart-wrenching, leaving viewers emotionally drained but wanting more.

Overall, episode 5 of March Comes in Like a Lion season 2 is a standout entry in an already impressive series. The themes of loneliness and isolation are explored with sensitivity and nuance, and the shogi match serves as a thrilling backdrop for the emotional drama. Fans of the series will surely be left on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating what will come next for Rei and his shogi journey.