English Dub Review: 86 EIGHTY-SIX: “I Won’t Forget”

Overview: Shin (Billy Kametz), Raiden (Jonah Scott), Theoto (Casey Mongillo), Emma (Maureen Price) and Kurena (Erica Mendez) are assigned to take down the legion’s newest and most lethal weapon in that of the Morpho, a decision that Grethe struggles with. 

Our Take: The nature of artificial intelligence is one that is constantly evolving and developing to supersede their previous iterations to the best possible version. A sentiment that is a terrifying one in our technologically advanced modern age. The legion’s deadly new weapon, the Morpho, a railgun with immense power and range that can tear through Giad’s defenses with ease, shows that reality brought to life in all it’s haunting form that continues to grow more terrifying over time. Of course, the Nordlicht squad can’t seem to catch a break and are thrown to the wolves in being deployed on a near suicide mission to destroy the Morpho before it can be repaired and used to destroy Giad. 

Marcel, Eugene’s friend and comrade, understanding the misplaced rage that Nina has for Shinei, as evident by her letter, paints a subtle yet saddening picture of what he was going through in the aftermath of Eugene’s death in how he despised Shinei. Nina’s letter to Shinei, inquisiting why he killed her brother also makes for an even more stirring motivation than the previous preconceived notion that it was an older letter addressed to Eugene, for his past savagery on the battlefield. 

Grethe’s objections to Nordlicht squad’s deployment is only natural along with her inability to fully understand Shin and the others’ values as an effect of her kindness. However, what is equally understandable is the pure frustration on Shinei and the 86’s side. Shinei’s remembrance of all his friends that died with honor and dignity throughout the war, acts as a beautifully moving motivation, in how equal parts saddening yet uplifting it is, to Shin’s heartfelt frustration that erupts to the surface with Grethe. Lena’s presence is also greatly felt with how Shin deeply cares for her and longs for her to be safe and live a fuller life than the short-lived one he believes that him and the 86 will inevitably have, showing her the kindness she so graciously bestowed upon them. 

What takes place after is an emotionally wrenching scene that allows Shinei to portray to Grenthe the strong commitment he and the 86 have to their morals and freedom, despite the cruel fate that may await them, and, of course, to those who have come before as well. Also, just as important and inspirational, is their unwillingness to be ignorant of atrocities that occur in the war with the legion and complacent of others laying down their lives. 

Logically speaking, it makes the most tactical sense to have the Nordlicht squad take out the Morpho due to their experience and skillset. However, the soldiers of Giad savage cruelty is without question. Their complete disregard for the 86’s lives show a kind of hell that Shinei, Raiden, Theoto, Emma and Kurena have walked into, similar to that of the Republic in being feared and hated indiscriminately. One that doesn’t appreciate their sacrifice. With San Magnolia having suffered great destruction after their battle with the legion, it stands to reason that the people and maybe even that of Lena have suffered, contrary to Shin’s eternal wish and validating his fear for her wellbeing and leaving it in a place of uncertainty and unease.