Code Geass: Akito the Exiled - The Brightness Falls
Synopsis — from MyAnimeList
After discovering the face of their true enemy—someone who is related to Akito and responsible for the Geass placed upon him—W-0 attempts to return to their base at Castle Weisswolf. However, stranded in Warsaw due to a complication involving their military identification, they are forced to accept the help of local gypsies, allowing the squad to take some time to deepen their bonds. Meanwhile, Britannian advisor Julius Kingsley and his guard Suzaku Kururugi begin working together with the Knights of St. Michael in order to crush the European resistance once and for all, armed with the destructive power of a giant weapon known as the Ark Fleet.
Audience Consensus
The audience is sharply divided on this installment, with strong opinions on both ends of the spectrum. While some praise its continued exploration of the Code Geass lore and improved production values, others find the plot nonsensical, the pacing terrible, and the characterizations weak, especially regarding the portrayal of Julius Kingsley. This film seems to be a transitional piece that fails to satisfy many long-time fans while offering little new to those seeking a coherent narrative.
Strengths
- Visuals are a massive step up from previous movies, with improved CGI and character animation.
- The inclusion of Lelouch and Suzaku, even in altered roles, is a positive for long-time fans.
- Character development for some of the W-0 squad members is noted as positive, providing a break from constant action.
- The series continues to explore the mystery of Geass, which is a compelling aspect for fans of the franchise.
- Action choreography and mecha battles, particularly the Suzaku showdown, are praised for their quality and intensity.
Weaknesses
- The plot is often nonsensical, with rushed backstories and poor pacing that prevents elements from breathing.
- Many characters, including the protagonists, are described as dull, bland, or reduced to caricatures of their former selves.
- The gypsy sub-plot is widely criticized as pointless, a waste of time, and poorly written.
- Julius Kingsley's portrayal as a parody of Lelouch and his motivations are seen as pathetic and illogical.
- The use of Geass is criticized for being convoluted, vague, and less strategically interesting than in the original series.