If there’s one thing I know about people, it’s that our minds can change. We can grow mentally in unexpected ways. Society is proof of that. Look how far we’ve come with technology, art, and social progress over the last few centuries. Individuals can change their minds, too.
This is an important theme in The Devil is a Part-Timer! You might not think a stubborn half-angel could ever get along with the demon king who invaded her country. But as I said, people can change in surprising ways. After Emilia the Hero and Mao the Devil are transported to the world of modern humans, it’s essential for them both to change.
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed The Devil is a Part-Timer! Season 2. Today, I’m finishing my episode reviews for this fun series. Enjoy!
Episode 22: The Devil Loses His Standing
With his demon magic gone, Mao can’t be useful in the mission to save Emi. Mao has a healthy level of personal pride as a leader, so he’s upset when Suzuno tells him to stay behind. But Suzuno was able to calmly explain her reasoning, kindly holding his hand and speaking sincerely. She pointed out that Mao has saved everyone on numerous occasions; so, just this time, she wants to return the favor. Mao agrees reluctantly. I think Suzuno is the only one who knows how to handle him this well.
The scenes in the restaurant and in the souvenir shop were quite enjoyable. It’s the first time in a while Mao has had to think about what Emi means to him. His answer was “rival,” which I agree is rather fitting, assuming it’s the kind of rivalry that entails respect rather than hard feelings. These scenes also improved my opinion of Acieth. She’s bratty and has terrible taste in jokes, but she’s still cute, entertaining, and inquisitive.
Possibly the most important part in this episode was Emilia’s emotional breakdown. This is the first time I remember seeing her so helpless and down on herself. It’s hard to see such a strong and admirable hero cry and be so vulnerable. On the other hand, that’s great character development. Interestingly, Emi’s feelings toward Mao are different from “respected rival.” She definitely has a more emotional view of things, though I still don’t know if I would say she has any romantic inclinations.
I have two quick notes left to go over. Firstly, although I don’t really remember him, I like Albert Ende so far. He’s a bit brusque, but very helpful, reasonable, and brave. Secondly, the letter from Alciel/Ashiya was as wholesome as something could be that’s technically a threat. For Emi, it was a message of hope. It allowed her to find courage once again. (Also, Emi’s description of chilled tofu and ginger bud made the dish seem sound even less appetizing than before.)
Episode 23: The Hero Dances on the Battlefield
This episode was one of my favorites for its high-action content, excellent visuals, and memorable music. The rooftop battle between Alciel and Emilia was both funny and genuinely awesome. I loved their banter together. It reminded me of two good friends doing some martial arts sparring with each other. Also, Emilia’s Hero Form is beautiful! The other good action scene was the scooter ride through Heavensky palace. It was impressively animated just like everything else in this installment.
The Devil’s arrival in Heavensky was a beautiful scene – both visually and in terms of the significant for the characters. Emi finally got to see her father alive, though he’s still unconscious. Mao’s words for that moment were great. He said, “Emi, I don’t expect forgiveness for what I did back then, either. But I found a lost treasure of yours, so I’m returning it to you as a token of apology.”
Mao’s apology made me really happy, but I didn’t cry. Surprisingly, the thing that actually made me tear up was the reunion of Alas Ramus and Acieth. I’m not sure why that moment was so touching for me, but I loved it. Maybe it’s related to the fact that I’ve grown more distant from my sisters. Anyway, I’m looking forward to Acieth becoming part of the “family” once everyone returns to Japan.
A few things in this episode seems a bit too convenient to accept easily. The main issue is that Mao got his magic back. At least, he’s in a partial demon form again, and there was no explanation. Additionally, after being teleported away by Gabriel, Suzuno and Albert happened to reappear near a cathedral that may be the key to returning. (The cathedral is probably holding the trial of Emerada, who can open portals.) It’s a small complaint, but these elements did seem overly convenient.
I still don’t fully know what Gabriel is trying to accomplish. He seems to be working for Olba, but I suspect he has his own agenda. Since he mentioned a new Great Devil, I expected to see an introduction to an unfamiliar demon character. No such thing happened. However, I do have one idea. Maybe the mysterious emperor-unifier is the one Gabriel wants to set up as the next Devil. After all, we still have no clue of his identity. We’ll find out in the final episode!
Episode 24: The Devil and the Hero Witness Change in Enta Isla
The last episode was good, and I’ll take a bit of time mentioning the parts I liked best. But first, let’s talk about Gabriel. Apparently, I was totally wrong that he was planning to instate a new Devil. Also, the “mysterious” emperor was just some old man who ruled Efzhahan. I guess it was still fun to speculate. Gabriel remains an enigma. If he had a plan apart from securing power alongside the Church, I have no idea what it was.
The true nature of Gabriel and the leadership of Heaven is not the only question left unanswered. I’m still unclear about multiple facets of the fantasy world lore, especially the Sephiroth and the Tree of Life. It seemed like Chiho learned something important about that from Amane and the Landlady. However, we don’t know what information was shared. We also don’t know what Lailah is doing or why she saved Mao in the past.
With all these mysteries, there’s definitely room for a third season. But I’m skeptical that it will be made and/or released in the near future. After all, it took almost ten years for some studio to pick up this anime after its first season. The second season also wasn’t very well received compared to the first. Thus, season three seems unlikely. I can only hope to be wrong about that, since I’d love to see more of this anime.
Now then, let’s look at the best moments in this final episode. I loved it when Suzuno confronted Olba and convinced the human army to side with her. Even when Suzuno is being sassy, she’s still so elegant. I’m glad she revealed to everyone that Angels are not truly divine. In addition, Suzuno’s brief interaction with Libicocco the Demon was strangely amusing to me. Hopefully, they will be friends in the future, as humans and Demons learn to get along better.
The group’s return to Japan was a lot of fun to watch. It was sweet when Chiho hugged Emi. Chiho clearly sees Emi as a rival at times, but it seems they do really care for each other. The friendship between Rika and Emi was also cute and touching. I’m so glad Rika is a good sport about everything. Nord finally woke up, and Emi tearfully embraced him. Later, everyone eats dinner in Mao’s apartment. It’s tiny and cramped, but it’s home.
Alas, that’s the end for this fun Summer 2023 anime. I’m glad I watched it and wrote about it. My episode reviews for this anime haven’t gotten very many views, but that also means I appreciate it more when someone does come to see. Readers, you have my utmost gratitude!
Thanks for reading~
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