The concluding chapter of the monumental anime series Attack on Titan wasn’t just a single episode; it was an event. The final installment, Attack on Titan Final Season THE FINAL CHAPTERS Special 2, clocks in at a substantial 85 minutes. This extended runtime allowed for a truly comprehensive and emotionally resonant conclusion to the decade-long saga.
Unpacking the Grand Finale: Episode Length and Narrative Significance
The decision to release the finale as a double-length special highlights its importance. Unlike many anime finales that adhere to standard episode durations, Attack on Titan demanded more space to properly resolve its complex storylines, character arcs, and thematic explorations. That 85-minute runtime wasn’t arbitrary; it was meticulously planned to deliver a satisfying, albeit bittersweet, culmination to Eren Yeager’s tragic journey and the fight for Eldian liberation.
Beyond the Runtime: Why Length Matters
The extended length of the final episode enabled the creators to:
- Expand on key emotional moments: The extra time allowed for prolonged scenes of reflection, dialogue, and character interactions, deepening the impact of major events.
- Provide closure for diverse storylines: Numerous plot threads required resolution, from the fate of Paradis Island to the future of the surviving characters. The longer format ensured that these narratives received adequate attention.
- Maintain narrative pacing: Condensing the finale into a standard-length episode would have undoubtedly resulted in rushed storytelling and sacrificed character development. The extended runtime preserved the series’ characteristic pacing while allowing for impactful moments to breathe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Attack on Titan Finale
To further clarify the details surrounding the final episode and its extended duration, here are some frequently asked questions:
FAQ 1: How does the final episode’s length compare to other Attack on Titan episodes?
Most Attack on Titan episodes fall within the 23-25 minute range, excluding opening and ending credits. The 85-minute finale is significantly longer, effectively equivalent to almost four standard episodes combined.
FAQ 2: Was the final episode released as one continuous piece, or were there breaks?
Attack on Titan Final Season THE FINAL CHAPTERS Special 2 was released as one continuous, uninterrupted piece of animation. There were no commercial breaks within the episode itself.
FAQ 3: Why was the finale split into two parts (Special 1 and Special 2)?
Due to the sheer volume of content and the complexity of the story, the final arc of Attack on Titan was divided into two specials to provide a more comprehensive and impactful viewing experience. Special 1 laid the groundwork for the final conflict, while Special 2 resolved the major plot points and character arcs.
FAQ 4: Did the extended runtime affect the animation quality?
While some viewers have expressed concerns about the overall animation quality throughout the final season, the extended runtime of the finale did not appear to negatively impact the animation. The studio, MAPPA, maintained a consistent level of visual detail and dynamic action sequences, especially during pivotal moments. Some areas saw considerable improvements.
FAQ 5: Does the 85-minute runtime include the opening and ending credits?
No, the 85-minute runtime refers to the actual content of the episode, excluding the opening and ending credits. When factoring in the opening and ending sequences, the total viewing time would be slightly longer.
FAQ 6: Where can I watch Attack on Titan Final Season THE FINAL CHAPTERS Special 2?
The final episode is available on various streaming platforms, including Crunchyroll, Hulu, and Funimation, depending on your region. It’s always advisable to check your local streaming services for availability.
FAQ 7: Are there any deleted scenes or extended cuts of the final episode?
As of now, there are no officially released deleted scenes or extended cuts of Attack on Titan Final Season THE FINAL CHAPTERS Special 2. The 85-minute version is considered the definitive and complete conclusion to the anime.
FAQ 8: How did the extended runtime impact the overall reception of the finale?
The extended runtime generally contributed to a more positive reception of the finale. Viewers appreciated the opportunity to delve deeper into the characters’ emotions and witness a more complete resolution of the complex storylines. However, some criticisms remain regarding certain narrative choices and character interpretations.
FAQ 9: Does the manga version of the final chapter have a similar amount of content as the anime episode?
While the anime closely adapts the source material, the visual medium inherently allows for greater nuance and expanded storytelling. The 85-minute finale offered a more fleshed-out and emotionally resonant interpretation of the manga’s ending compared to reading the corresponding chapters.
FAQ 10: Will there be any further anime adaptations or spin-offs related to Attack on Titan?
While nothing is currently confirmed, the possibility of spin-offs or continuations within the Attack on Titan universe remains. Given the franchise’s popularity and the rich world-building, it is certainly possible that we could see future anime projects exploring different aspects of the story.
FAQ 11: Did the production team face any challenges in creating such a long and complex final episode?
Creating an 85-minute anime episode presented numerous challenges, including scheduling conflicts, resource allocation, and maintaining animation quality. The production team at MAPPA undoubtedly faced immense pressure to deliver a satisfying conclusion that lived up to the expectations of the global fanbase. Staff shortages and tight deadlines are known to have been prevalent throughout the final seasons.
FAQ 12: What is the significance of the final episode’s title, Attack on Titan Final Season THE FINAL CHAPTERS Special 2?
The title emphasizes the definitive nature of the episode as the ultimate conclusion to the Attack on Titan saga. By explicitly labeling it as the “Final Chapter,” the creators intended to convey that this is the end of Eren’s story and the conflict between Eldia and the world. The finality of the title sets the stage for the profound and irreversible events that unfold within the episode.
The Legacy of Attack on Titan
The 85-minute finale of Attack on Titan is more than just an episode; it’s a testament to the power of anime to tell complex and emotionally resonant stories. Its extended length allowed for a comprehensive and satisfying conclusion, cementing Attack on Titan‘s place as a landmark achievement in the medium. While debates about the ending may persist, the impact and influence of this groundbreaking series are undeniable.