In terms of animation and action, “Against the Judgment” pales in comparison to what was previously showcased in “The Conflict.” This episode features minimal action, relying heavily on still frames. While some characters display significant power, these moments are fleeting and resolved within the first few minutes. The remainder of the episode is filled with conversations that are blocked and directed in a standard manner. Last week’s cliffhangers and this week’s pressing threats are resolved too quickly, with even the chilling closing moments of “The Betrayer” being hurriedly addressed offscreen. Although these aspects are not entirely detrimental, the episode’s quality remains consistent with the rest of Thousand-Year Blood War. It’s clear that there was no sudden budget cut or executive interference, unlike the poorly received Uzumaki.

Dialogue-Driven and Predictable

Despite a few silver linings, “Against the Judgment” ultimately comes across as a dull, dialogue-driven episode. Conversations follow the typical shot-reverse-shot format, with close-ups of the speaking characters while others stand in the background, waiting for their turn to react. Much of the dialogue consists of characters explaining their abilities, intentions, or the current situation to one another. More intriguing discussions, particularly those involving Soul Reapers questioning their superiors’ decisions, are sidelined for more immediate concerns (like the impending apocalypse). Nonetheless, the voice actors deliver solid performances, and there is a novelty in seeing characters who have not interacted in years finally come together again.

A Necessary Breather After Intense Action

The most frustrating aspect of this episode is that its slower pace was necessary. “Against the Judgment” follows “The Conflict’s” most relentless episode, allowing the remaining Soul Reapers and Quincies to regroup after witnessing pivotal turns in the war. It would be unrealistic for a severely injured Ichigo Kurosaki to immediately return to his duel with Uryu Ishida after the previous episode’s events. Audiences also needed time to process what had transpired, and the story required space to set the stage for the war’s next phase. The surviving Gotei 13 officers were bound to find a way to enter the Royal Palace and confront Emperor Yhwach. Additionally, the episode pays off the foreshadowing established at the beginning of Thousand-Year Blood War, introducing familiar faces beyond just Aizen.

Fanservice and Character Development

“Against the Judgment” offers entertainment value primarily through fanservice and new material created exclusively for the anime. Conversations from the manga that were abruptly interrupted are given more room to breathe, allowing characters to showcase their personalities rather than serving merely as exposition vehicles. Longtime fans are treated to cameos from characters they may have forgotten, and the acknowledgment of overlooked rank-and-file Soul Reapers makes Soul Society feel more vibrant and the stakes more believable. While the manga felt like a conflict exclusive to the Gotei 13, the anime adaptation presents it as a battle for all life.

A Missed Opportunity for Engagement

Despite these merits, “Against the Judgment” could have been more compelling and engaging. The episode did not need to be another action-packed spectacle, but it should have allowed time for characters and viewers to absorb Uryu’s betrayal and the looming apocalypse, making the upcoming events more impactful. With one of the largest character rosters in shōnen anime history, it was essential for “The Conflict” to shift focus back to the broader cast after four episodes centered on Ichigo and his immediate circle. This lack of screen time was a significant issue in the manga, and the episode partially addresses this flaw. While “Against the Judgment” fulfills important narrative tasks, it does so with the bare minimum. It may not be the worst episode of its kind, but it stands as one of the weaker entries in the otherwise impressive Thousand-Year Blood War. However, if the episode’s stinger is any indication, viewers can expect things to get back on track in just one week’s time.