Ep 18. Midnight Sun

Eren and his fellow Scouts continue their mission to reclaim Wall Maria from the Titans, but their plans are complicated by new revelations and the murky politics of their leaders.

In "Midnight Sun," the eighteenth episode of Attack on Titan's third season, we find ourselves at a turning point in the story. After many episodes of buildup, the characters' motivations and allegiances are being tested, and trust is in short supply.

The opening scenes of the episode reveal some major plot points that set the tone for what's to come. We see flashes of a Titan among the Scouts, a dire warning from the military's top brass, and a group of soldiers plotting something sinister.

From there, we dive into a flashback that tells us more about Kenny, the enigmatic figure who's joined forces with Levi and the Scouts. We learn about his past and his connection to the royal family, shedding light on some of the mysteries that have been teased throughout the series.

The rest of "Midnight Sun" is split between different factions, as everyone scrambles to make sense of the new developments. Eren, Mikasa, and Armin are off on their own, attempting to uncover the truth about the Titans and their role in the greater scheme of things. Meanwhile, Levi and Hange are leading a group of soldiers to the heart of Wall Maria, hoping to reclaim lost territory and drive back the enemy.

One of the most striking aspects of the episode is how it handles its characters. It's a testament to the show's writing that even secondary figures like Kenny get fleshed out with their own motivations and backstories. Though we're still invested in Eren and his friends, it's clear that Attack on Titan is equally interested in the nuances of its world and the complex individuals who populate it.

There's also a sense of urgency to "Midnight Sun." Rather than simply building up tension for future episodes, this installment feels like it's pushing the plot forward in significant ways. Between the revelations about Kenny and the looming danger facing the Scouts, it's clear that things are coming to a head.

Of course, "Midnight Sun" still has time for some stunning action sequences. One extended set piece sees the Scouts battling a bevy of Titans in the dark, with only the light of their flares to guide them. The scene is tense and visceral, showing off both the strengths and weaknesses of the soldiers' makeshift weaponry.

Overall, "Midnight Sun" is a remarkable episode of Attack on Titan. It's rare to find a show that balances character development and plot progression so effectively, and this installment is no exception. With the stakes higher than ever and secrets lurking around every corner, it's exciting to imagine where the show will go next.