Thanks for visiting Anime Rants. Zom 100 was a very hyped-up show earlier this year, immediately receiving praise for its great music, refreshing characters, and vividly colorful art style. Since it was so promising, I’m confused as to why Zom 100 has suffered such significant setbacks in post-production and release.
There have been multiple delays since this anime began. Summer 2023 shows are all over by now, but Zom 100 has leaked into the Fall season. I’m not sure what the reasons are behind these delays, but I hope the show can finish its run soon without losing too many fans. As for me, I’m still enjoying this anime quite a lot. So, let’s jump right into the episode reviews!
Note: Rather than provide detailed recaps of these episodes, I will simply process and respond to the parts that stuck out at me.
Episode 8: Sushi and Hot Springs of the Dead
In this memorable 8th episode, we finally meet Beatrix Amerhauser. Many fans – myself included – have eagerly awaited her introduction. Overall, I was not disappointed. On the one hand, Beatrix is a trope in several different ways, and her body type is absurdly unrealistic. But on the other hand, this character has a cute, fun, and enthusiastic personality. Beatrix is also a great fighter, and surprisingly knowledgeable. I like her!
I would be lying if I said my appreciation of Beatrix had nothing to do with her sushi obsession. As an intense sushi-lover myself, I loved the whole sushi plotline. It was easy to root for the group’s new mission of delivering the fish. The sushi chef was generous and warm, letting the guests eat and drink their fill. I hope that man continues to survive in this zombie apocalypse. Also, the humor in this mini-arc was great.
A quick note on visual quality in this episode. I noticed that more of the zombies were 3D-animated compared to previous installments. It’s not the worst I’ve ever seen, but it was a bit jarring. Besides that one complaint, the art and animation continue to impress me. The action scenes of Akira and Beatrix fighting the zombies were great. I also loved the animation of the fire that burned the zombies. Finally, the multicolor blood effect is still mesmerizing.
The remainder of the episode was about the hot springs. It’s common for anime series to have a hot springs episode that features a lot of fan-service geared at male audiences. Zom 100 followed this trope. Despite being slightly exasperated by the “tropiness” of it all, I didn’t think the fan-service and sexual elements were that bad. At least there was no peeking on the girls against their will. I even smiled a bit at some of the goofy humor. This could have been so much worse.
The last thing I’ll mention is that Shizuka was amazing in this episode. She’s still my favorite character. Her ability to formulate good strategies is impressive. At one point, Shizuka inconsiderately shot down Akira’s opinions about romance. However, that night, she apologized and explained that it was her insecurities slipping out. Shizuka’s psychology is very interesting to me, especially since I can relate to having a strict and emotionally abusive family.
This character still has a lot to work through, but she’s already commendably insightful about her own mind and human nature in general. That much is clear as she speaks the following words. “When your own opinions are always ignored, it becomes difficult for you to accept the opinions of others. In order to defend your position, you assert your legitimacy by rejecting what others say.”
The fact that Shizuka can recognize this is promising. I think she will be fine, especially with someone like Akira to help her with perspective. Good episode!
Episode 9: Treehouse of the Dead
Compared to episode 8, the next installment wasn’t quite as entertaining. However, it’s still important plot progression. Akira and company meet an old man in the woods and help him finish building a treehouse. These treehouse escapades were enjoyable. The old man was endearing and Akira’s enthusiasm was adorable. I also appreciated the parts about understanding the forest around you. Everything was very wholesome.
The group of four proceeds to Akira’s village, where they find the residents alive and well. They sealed off the zombies in a tunnel and have been able to survive on crops and wild plants. Despite a less-than-warm welcome from his father, Akira wants to repay his parents for being so good to him growing up. I think Akira’s desire is admirable, though not something that has ever been a priority in my own life. So far, it’s been hard for Akira to feel like he’s being helpful, but I’m sure he’ll find a way.
As for Akira’s father, I don’t really like him. Characters of his type usually get on my nerves with their grumpy aloofness and refusal to engage normal emotions. Unfortunately, Akira’s father is hiding a serious illness. He mumbles to himself that he probably doesn’t have much time left. I couldn’t care less about the old farmer, except that he’s important to Akira, who I do care about. So I’m not looking forward to this inevitable death.
The last part of the episode showed us the story of the city boy who is like the anti-hero version of Akira. Much like the protagonist, this young man felt ecstatic when the zombie apocalypse began. He gathered some friends – all societal outcasts like himself – and they started a bucket list together. Compared to Akira’s group, this new boy and his companions seem rather nasty and vindictive. I’m not sure what those four are up to, but they are approaching the tunnel where the zombies are trapped. This can’t be good.
I could ramble a bit longer about how it’s an interesting move to include a character who is essentially a darker reflection of Akira. But my eyes are tired, and I have been awake all night. That’s all for now, folks!
Thanks for reading~
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