Attack On Titan’s Ending Is Divisive, But I Agree With The Stance Held By Some Who Worked On The Film

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Major spoilers for Attack on Titan down below! If you’re not caught up, stop reading now!

Among the animes I resonate with, none can compare to “Attack on Titan”. This series has held a tight grip over my life, leaving me eagerly awaiting each new episode. When the show finally concluded in 2023 and its ending was revealed to the public, opinions were divided. However, when I had the chance to talk with English dub actors Bryce Papenbrook and Trina Nishimura about their thoughts on the finale, they swiftly clarified any misconceptions. Indeed, their perspective makes perfect sense to me.

For those unfamiliar, Papenbrook and Nishimura lent their voices to Eren and Mikasa, two key characters in the anime series. Remarkably, they managed to steer clear of spoilers throughout the entire show (unlike some who gave in and read the manga). With the release of the compilation film, “Attack on Titan: THE LAST ATTACK,” I couldn’t help but wonder about their thoughts, and Papenbrook immediately expressed his affection for the ending, stating he couldn’t imagine it concluding any other way.

I was completely captivated by the finale of this intricate tale woven from multiple viewpoints. The conclusion left me puzzled about its outcome, yet it seemed as if the author skillfully pieced together each part with such precision and finesse that it felt like the story was crafted in reverse. In awe of its brilliance, I can’t help but admire it. Not every story requires a cheerful ending, but Attack on Titan nailed the perfect resolution for me.

In a similar vein, Nishimura also held that viewpoint. However, the voice actor candidly disclosed that, naturally, she aspired for a joyful conclusion, just like everyone else – yet, it was merely the ending that “was bound to occur.

In another words, I firmly believe that the story’s resolution was inevitable and it resonated deeply with me, despite my usual detachment. Truly, I yearned for them to remain at the cabin, finding a brief respite amidst the chaos. However, they seldom had moments to simply exist peacefully throughout the series. During the filming, especially when they were at the cabin, I found myself questioning if it was all a dream or if they were truly okay. Yet, the ending was breathtakingly beautiful and emotionally impactful, as were many other scenes in Attack on Titan.

In a theory among fans, Nishimura speaks about a tranquil instance when Eren and Mikasa were supposedly taken to a cabin, possibly in an alternate world where they might have escaped the turmoil together. However, this moment turned out to be nothing more than a dream or vision for Nishimura.

Despite your fervent hopes for a favorable outcome, and your dread of the worst-case scenario unfolding, unfortunately, it did come true. It transpired precisely as you least expected. The narrative had to conclude in this manner. Frankly, I was wishing for a joyful ending, but this was the ending that fate had in store.

For quite some time now, these two voice artists have been part of the beloved dark anime that made its debut in 2013. Given their deep-rooted association with the series, it’s hardly shocking to learn they concur with the show’s finale, considering their long-standing bond with it. Interestingly, Papenbrook even got a chance to sit down with creator Hajime Isayama – I can only imagine the fascinating conversations they must have had!

Despite some online fans expressing dissatisfaction with the ending, suggesting alternative scenarios or ways to prevent the Rumbling, I personally find Attack on Titan’s ending to be more grounded in reality. Eren is now deceased, and much of the world has been destroyed, but his comrades have survived and can rebuild. However, at what price remains to be seen.

In a world filled with the soul-crushing deaths from “Attack on Titan,” I’d rather have most of the main characters making it until the end, even if it means sacrificing other aspects. Frankly, after the emotional turmoil that many “AOT” arcs have caused me, the final outcome seems almost anticlimactic now.

Although we share the same viewpoint regarding the final outcome, I’m confident that this aspect will spark intense discussions among fans for years to come. In no time, you’ll likely encounter another wave of analysis videos exploring whether Eren’s actions were justified or not. However, regardless of personal opinions about the ending, Attack on Titan remains an excellent series to begin with, and like the memorable voice work by Papenbrook and Nishimura, its impact and influence will endure for eternity.

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2025-02-12 01:37