After five episodes of juggling two completely different shows, in episode six RideBack finally brought action into the story with the GGP’s use of White Rides and Rin’s arrest. Although it’s arguable as to whether RideBack was exciting and eventful prior to episode six, we know that RideBack has a bit of an identity problem. While wanting to show off the ridebacks and how awesome they may be, the show also wishes to tackle serious “concepts like political resistance.” In that sense, we are seeing two shows that Madhouse has unsuccessfully mashed together. One of the RideBack manga readers notes that “few manga transform themselves completely as regularly as Ride Back does; every volume or two it seems to smoothly change genres completely.” Perhaps it isn’t a surprise that the anime adaptation is trying to do the same, but it’s disappointing that it’s failing to do so.

Overall I agree with jpmeyer and his thoughts on RideBack. Its major themes are definitely a mismatch. I cannot say if the manga is excellent as Andrew Cunningham makes it seem, but the anime needs a focus that isn’t the ridebacks. It’s not to say the machines aren’t awesome, but more emphasis must be placed on the political resistance. The ridebacks may be a vehicle (no pun intended) to move the story along, but if we aren’t seeing a just cause in fighting the GGP nearly halfway through the show, why are we watching? Prior to episode seven, there was little reason to empathize with revolutionaries and those against the GGP. All the viewers knew was that the GGP took over the world through militaristic force. Big deal. At least in Code Geass, we knew there was something wrong: the Japanese were being treated like dirt.

Episode seven was pleasing. We now clearly understand what the GGP is like; who tortures a high school student into falsely admitting murder? I have a reason to oppose the GGP and want to support the rebels. Okakura is taking action and a small conflict arises between Ryunnosuke and Karenbak, hinting at a future struggle within the government. The BMA has abducted Rin and she has met that other rider from the terrorist incident. We see the plot finally moving forward, and I’m quite happy with what’s been given to us.

Now the question is, will Madhouse do a good job with the remaining five episodes? Episode seven turned it around, but half the season is already over. RideBack has to consistently hit a home run at each of its next five at-bats, or it’ll lose the game and end up a show that can easily be forgotten.

This post is tagged code geass, impressions, madhouse, rideback