My Hero Academia: All Might Is Back

Key Takeaways

Season 7 of My Hero Academia has raised the bar with impressive animation and storytelling.
All Might returns to remind everyone he is still #1 hero, showcasing his strength of will.
The emotional Todoroki family arc culminates in a powerful and unforgettable episode.

Title	My Hero Academia Season 7
Director	Naomi Nakayama, Kenji Nagasaki (Chief Director)
Studio	Bones
Episode Air Date	9/21/2024

As a gamer with over two decades of anime-watching under my belt, I must say that My Hero Academia Season 7 is nothing short of exceptional. It’s like a rollercoaster ride where every episode surpasses the last, leaving me in awe and anticipation for what’s next.

The following contains spoilers for My Hero Academia, Episode 157, “I AM HERE”, now streaming on Crunchyroll.

This season of “My Hero Academia” has left me speechless with its incredible quality, and there are just two more weeks for it to surpass itself even more. The animation, acting, and escalating grandeur of its finale have made this season not only exceptional but have pushed the boundaries to provide some of the finest storytelling ever seen in the series’ chronicles.

In the past week, All For One’s regenerative powers, combined with his rewind ability, made him young again, restoring him to his peak strength. Similarly, Episode 157 symbolically rejuvenates All Might, reminding us all that he remains the top hero, and will forever hold that position.

I Am Here… Again

The Best Animation of the Season (So Far)

From the get-go, a hearty round of applause is deserved for the episode director, Masayuki Otsuki, and the entire animation team. This season has seen many impressive shots, and the artwork in particular has garnered much acclaim. However, this episode surpassed all expectations, delivering an unrelenting spectacle from start to finish. The dialogue scenes were enhanced with striking shading and line art, signaling to viewers that this was going to be an exceptional episode, and it certainly lived up to the hype. Not to mention the star of the show himself.

Yutaka Nakamura is well-known not just for the stunning visuals in “My Hero Academia”, but also for Studio Bones’ work overall. For a while, it seemed like this season was missing his artistic influence. However, his return this week was met with hearty cheers, almost as loud as Iida’s engine roaring when he assisted Todoroki in reaching Gunga Villa.

As a fan, it’s moments like these that take me back to the early seasons of the show, when Iida seemed more central to the action. The camaraderie between him and Todoroki reminded me of their teamwork against Stain in Season 2. Learning that Stain was observing this very scene added an extra layer of nostalgia, making it a deliberate callback rather than just a coincidence. This scene was nothing short of mesmerizing, enhanced as it was by the masterful hand of one of the greatest animators out there.

All Might Isn’t Done Fighting

Directly after Iida and Todoroki’s successful launch, the episode soars on this success and strives to reach even greater heights. After eight years of witnessing the top hero gradually relinquishing his title, Episode 157 demonstrates that his significance extends beyond mere observation. Here, My Hero Academia completes its circle in a thoughtful, impactful manner.

Despite all that’s unfolded, every hero is either engaged in battle or unavailable, with no backup forces at our disposal. Yet, All Might remains standing. Seven seasons ago, it was Deku who inquired if one could be a hero without a special ability. With everything that has transpired since then, there’s no reason to question his response. As such, the teacher emulates his most outstanding pupil by positioning himself under a gloomy sky, prepared to confront his toughest adversary.

In a more simplified manner: Although All For One is stronger compared to All Might at his peak, All Might’s determination is as powerful as it’s ever been, especially noticeable since Season 3 when it seemed like he had retired for good. The smile he shows in this episode carries a lot of weight and will make you feel the same way. Even without witnessing a fight or seeing All Might’s advanced costume, the scene feels significant.

Dabi’s Dance: Prepare to Cry Edition

This season has featured many heartfelt episodes, but few have been as intensely emotional as the second half of this particular one. And it underscores the fact that the Todoroki family’s storyline is undoubtedly the most skillfully crafted arc in “My Hero Academia”. It’s not necessary for everyone to admire Endeavor, and that was never the intention.

This story delves deeply into dealing with pain, loss, and remorse. The possibility that a significant part of the fanbase may never forgive Endeavor underscores the impressive approach of this tale in examining the extremes of these transgressions – and the efforts required for redemption. Moreover, it’s crucial that the entire family is involved in this process because the richness of this narrative lies in each family member’s individual struggle with the trauma they’ve experienced.

Shoto Saves the Day

Shoto’s presence truly elevates the scene, as his entrance on Iida’s back remains as awe-inspiring as their initial departure. With Todoroki crafting an ice jet for them to glide through smoothly, the animation is nothing short of spectacular. However, what truly sets this moment apart is the raw emotion in the family’s voices during and following the climax, adding a depth that makes it even more impactful.

The tweet labeled this episode as “generational,” which seems incredibly apt. This is the type of episode that will undoubtedly be talked about for years when discussing shōnen anime. At the very least, it merits being discussed in such a way. It not only highlights what makes My Hero Academia unique, but it encapsulates the greatness that Studio Bones is capable of producing. No other studio could have crafted this show quite as they did.

2024-09-29 18:03