Ep 1. Bismuth
- TVPG
- August 4, 2016
- 22 min
-
9.5 (1,864)
Steven Universe season 5 episode 1 is titled "Bismuth." The episode begins with Steven returning to Earth after his time spent on Homeworld, where he tried to convince the Diamonds to spare the Earth. Upon his arrival, Steven finds that things have changed, and his friends have been busy. Pearl has fixed the house, Amethyst has expanded her room, and Lapis and Peridot have created a barn. However, the most significant change is that Bismuth, a gem that Steven believed to be shattered, is alive and well.
Bismuth, a blacksmith who helped Steven forge new weapons, was an integral part of the rebellion against Homeworld. However, when Bismuth created the Breaking Point, a weapon meant to shatter gems, Steven was forced to bubble and bury her. It turns out that the Crystal Gems had actually un-bubbled her unbeknownst to Steven, and she had been living in Lion's mane ever since.
Steven is ecstatic to be reunited with Bismuth and tries to catch her up on everything that has happened since his departure. When Steven brings up the Diamonds, however, Bismuth becomes angry and begins to vent her frustrations about the supposed end of the rebellion. She explains that Homeworld is still oppressing other planets, and the destruction of the Diamonds was only the beginning. Bismuth insists that they need to find and shatter the Diamonds to save the universe from their tyranny.
Steven is hesitant about Bismuth's plan to destroy the Diamonds, feeling that it is unnecessary and violent. The two get into an argument, and Steven accidentally reveals that Rose Quartz is actually Pink Diamond. Bismuth is shocked, feeling betrayed by Rose's secrecy and lies. The conversation becomes heated, and in the heat of the moment, Bismuth pulls out the Breaking Point. Steven is horrified, believing that Bismuth is about to use the lethal weapon on him. However, Bismuth reveals that the Breaking Point was intended only for the Diamonds and that she would never hurt Steven.
Feeling guilty, Bismuth apologizes to Steven and explains that since her release, she has struggled with the realization that the war had ended without her. Bismuth felt that she had failed to protect Homeworld's colonies and that they were still suffering under Homeworld's rule. Steven comforts her, telling her that he understands her feelings and appreciates all that she has done for the rebellion.
The episode ends with Bismuth and Steven reconciling, and Bismuth choosing to stay in Beach City. Steven shows her all of the new additions to Beach City, and the two spend time together. As the sun sets, Steven and Bismuth look out over the ocean, and Bismuth expresses her gratitude for being given a second chance.
Overall, "Bismuth" is a powerful and emotionally charged episode that explores the themes of war, guilt, and redemption. The introduction of Bismuth's character and her complex relationship with Steven and the other Crystal Gems adds depth and dimension to the show's narrative. The episode's stunning visuals, moving soundtrack, and top-notch voice acting make it a must-watch for fans of the show and newcomers alike.