February 12, 2009 : Bang!
A few days ago, I received a totally unexpected and awesome gift (thanks Moridin).
For those you unaware, it is Spike Spiegel from Cowboy Bebop. Spike is my favorite anime character, and Bebop is my favorite anime.
The figure is really sweet, and it got me thinking about the series. A running debate is whether or not Spike dies at the end of the series (it’s not really a spoiler, but sorry for ruining it for anybody). Theories run abound, but it is never stated explicitly either way. This includes Shinichiro Watanabe, the director.
Personally, I like to think Spike died. This might be the less popular view, but it serves best for the series. I am usually not a big fan of sequels (that will be for a later post); and even though sequels can be a great thing for certain franchises, it does not apply to Cowboy Bebop.
Bebop did a great job ending the series. There wasn’t definite finality with Spike, but there was closure with every character; and that is what makes a great story – whether the medium is anime, movie, or TV show. So while I might be in the minority, I say, “Rest In Peace, Spike Spiegel. You are a true hero. If you are alive… I will still watch you and love it.”
As a side note, I realized I was titling too many posts as questions. I figured the polar opposite would be a pertinent exclamation statement. Take that, expected masses!
posted by Pi Visuals at 11:08 pm
Tags: Anime , Cowboy Bebop , Sequels
Hey, if you ever want to treat yourself to a sweet gift, take a look at some of the Cowboy Bebop cels for sale here:
http://www.storage.asylum-anime.com/cels/c-bebop/
Only one Spike cel for now, but the selection changes from time to time.
I’ve resigned to not knowing whether he died or not. I *want* the story to end without his death, because I like the character and don’t want him to die. Plus, it’s sad to think his final reward is death. But I agree that his death does fit into the story better, especially given some of the motifs and events from those last two episodes. Either way, you’re right – it’s a great ending to the series.
Nice photos, by the way.
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