Ep 2. That Day - The Fall of Shiganshina: Part 2

In Attack on Titan season 1 episode 2 - That Day: The Fall of Shiganshina Part 2, the second installment of the season, the audience is brought back into a world filled with chaos and carnage. The trepidation in the air is palpable, as the Titans relentlessly destroy everything in their path and humanity is faced with its own mortality.

The episode begins with the aftermath of the previous episode, as Eren, Mikasa, and Armin watch in horror as their hometown is destroyed before their very eyes. Scenes of people being eaten and killed are juxtaposed with moments of intense action, as the three children try their best to survive. In this episode, we see further development of the main characters as they struggle to comprehend the enormity of the situation they have found themselves in.

Eren's origins are revealed in this episode, providing insight into why he has such a fierce hatred for the Titans. His mother's death serves as a pivotal point in his story arc, and his motivation to defeat the Titans is solidified. The audience is also given a glimpse of Eren's father, as well as the mysterious injection he gives to his son before disappearing - leaving the viewers with more questions than answers.

Meanwhile, Mikasa's unwavering loyalty to Eren shines through as she tirelessly fights the Titans, risking her own life for his. Despite his recklessness, Mikasa sees the potential in Eren, and knows that he is capable of greatness. Armin, on the other hand, struggles to come to terms with the horrors he has witnessed, and finds himself paralyzed with fear. Yet even he realizes that in order to survive, he must be brave and fight alongside his friends.

The episode builds towards an emotional climax, as the heroes are faced with the realization that they are simply children fighting a losing battle. As their homes and families are destroyed, they must make a choice - run away and save themselves, or stay and fight for humanity's survival. It's a poignant moment that showcases the harsh realities of war and the impossible decisions one must make in order to survive.

The animation in this episode is breathtaking, with the Titans appearing more terrifying than ever. It's a testament to the artistry of the animators, who were able to bring these monstrous creatures to life in a way that instills viewers with fear and dread. The sound design also deserves praise, as the music and sound effects are expertly utilized to heighten the tension during the intense action sequences.

Ultimately, That Day: The Fall of Shiganshina Part 2 is a powerful follow-up to the first episode, with stunning visuals and emotionally-packed scenes that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. It's a perfect continuation of the story, building upon the established world and characters in a way that is both satisfying and thought-provoking. As the season progresses, it will be exciting to see where the story takes these characters next, and how they will continue to fight against seemingly insurmountable odds.