Episode 7: ZENSHU – Anime News Network

The Unyielding Passion of Natsuko in Episode 7 of ZENSHU.

The term "life-changing" is thrown around quite casually these days. Rarely does an anime episode truly shift someone’s life course. Episode 7 of ZENSHU., "FIRST LOVE," captures this transformative experience through the eyes of Natsuko, an animator who was profoundly affected by Tale of Perishing. Her journey from a peculiar child to an obsessed artist creates a narrative teeming with passion and complexity.

A Tapestry of Influence

Yamazaki and Ueno masterfully weave together Natsuko’s life story in just 20 minutes. Through the perspectives of those around her, viewers learn about her unique obsession with animation. Her elementary school friend narrates how Natsuko was always somewhat of an oddball. Yet, this oddity blossoms into a fierce dedication toward animation, which becomes evident as each acquaintance plays a part in shaping her destiny.

The narrative peels back layers of Natsuko’s life, revealing a singular focus on becoming a virtuoso. Her idolization of the Tale of Perishing director exemplifies her commitment, despite the film’s failure. Passion draws people to her like moths to a flame, supported by her conventional attractiveness. But they quickly realize that her eyes remain only on her goal.

The Beauty and Burden of Obsession

Natsuko’s tale portrays the beauty of passion, akin to other anime like Look Back and Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken! Despite the romanticized surface, her journey explores the harsh costs of obsession. Her fixation on her craft blinds her to human relationships. This single-minded pursuit isolates her, documented clearly through her interactions.

Though skilled, Natsuko’s arrogance surfaces when she trifles with group projects. Her talent protects her from consequences as she grudgingly learns teamwork and humility. This creates an enticing dynamic—how society idealizes genius while excusing flaws. Until she faces struggles with her romantic project, viewers are caught in a romanticized portrayal of her life.

First Love and Final Realizations

While Natsuko laments her lack of understanding of first love, irony marks her as the episode leads us to realize her true affection. Her tears reveal that her first love was always animation, personified by Luke Braveheart. As her narrative culminates, a newfound team spirit and acknowledgment of her vulnerabilities begin shifting her world.

Yet, the chapter is not entirely closed. The shadow of the original director, once casting its inspiration and conflict over Natsuko, lingers ominously. As history threatens to repeat, Natsuko must reconcile her genius with her need for genuine connection and collaboration.

Streaming on Crunchyroll, episode 7 of ZENSHU. enraptures its audience with a poignant commentary on the power and pitfalls of passion. Will Natsuko’s journey into self-awareness fortify her skill with human understanding? Only time will reveal as the series continues to unfold on Sundays.