Last Updated on 25 June 2024 by Arman Deep Sharma
The latest episode of My Hero Academia was a rollercoaster of emotions as it showcased the intense confrontation between brothers Dabi and Shoto.
This episode, pivotal in the series’ final battle arc, sticks closely to Kohei Horikoshi’s original manga, yet the anime’s adaptations add unique touches.
Here’s a detailed comparison of the episode to the manga, highlighting the differences and enhancements.
Spoiler Warning: This article contains spoilers from My Hero Academia Season 7
Contents
Emotional Confrontation: Shoto vs. Dabi
Manga Fidelity and Emotional Depth
My Hero Academia Season 7 Episode 8, titled “Two Flashfires,” covers the events from manga chapters 350 to 352.
The episode is significant as it brings to life the emotionally charged fight between Shoto Todoroki and his villainous older brother, Dabi.
The episode maintains the essence of the manga while enriching the narrative with anime-exclusive elements that heighten the emotional impact.
Exploring Dabi’s Origin Story
The episode begins by delving into Dabi’s origin as Toya Todoroki, the eldest son of Endeavor.
After a devastating forest fire that left Toya severely burnt, he was found by the notorious villain All For One (AFO). Toya spent three years in a coma, and upon awakening, he wanted to return home.
However, AFO manipulated him, suggesting that his family would not recognize him due to his disfigurement.
Toya’s visit home only deepened his resentment when he saw Endeavor’s brutal training of Shoto, confirming that his disappearance had not changed anything.
This backstory is portrayed almost identically in both the anime and the manga, showcasing Toya’s transformation into Dabi, fueled by his desire for revenge against Endeavor.
The Climactic Battle Begins
As Dabi confronts Shoto, he undergoes a terrifying transformation, burning himself into an almost unrecognizable figure.
This scene, faithfully adapted from the manga, is intensified in the anime through detailed animation and voice acting.
Dabi taunts Shoto and Endeavor, explaining that shedding his past identity as Toya lifted the physical restraints on his powers, allowing him to unleash his full potential.
Anime Enhancements: Blue Flames and Flashfire Fist
One of the notable anime-only additions is Dabi’s flames turning from red to blue, signifying a dramatic increase in their intensity.
This visual enhancement adds a new layer to the fight, making it more visually striking.
Dabi’s attack, Flashfire Fist: Hell Spider, is animated with exceptional detail, elevating the scene’s intensity.
The anime’s improvisation in these moments, such as the use of dynamic camera angles and fluid motion, enhances the overall experience.
Dabi’s Hell Spider move is a diversion, enabling him to isolate Shoto by moving his comrades away.
He then hits Shoto with a powerful Jetburn, hurling him into a building. This attack showcases Dabi’s ruthlessness and his desire to prove his superiority over Shoto.
Shoto’s Counterattack: Ice and Fire
The anime introduces a flashback revealing Shoto’s preparation for the fight. He shares his strategy with Midoriya, demonstrating his resolve to face Dabi.
Shoto combines his fire and ice abilities into a new technique, Flashfire Fist: Phosphor.
This move, a blend of his father’s Flashfire Fist and his own Icebound Crush: Coldflame’s Pale Blade, represents Shoto’s unique approach to his powers.
The animation of Shoto’s Phosphor attack is a highlight, with the anime’s creative liberties making it appear incredibly realistic.
The combination of fire and ice visually symbolizes Shoto’s internal struggle and his determination to surpass his father and brother.
The Climactic Conclusion
As the battle reaches its peak, Dabi’s rage intensifies, and he becomes almost monstrous.
However, Shoto’s friends provide support, giving him the opportunity to prepare his final attack.
The episode cleverly integrates flashbacks from previous seasons, reinforcing the emotional stakes and character development.
Shoto’s ultimate move, Great Glacial Aegir, is a breathtaking display of his mastery over his abilities.
This powerful attack immobilizes Dabi, leading to an emotional plea from Shoto for his brother to stop.
This moment, the episode’s emotional climax, is enhanced by the anime’s original soundtrack.
The soft, melancholic melody underscores the vulnerability and poignancy of the scene, making it resonate deeply with viewers.
Final Words
While the episode closely follows the manga’s storyline, the anime’s enhancements in animation, voice acting, and music significantly amplify the emotional impact.
The portrayal of Dabi and Shoto’s fight in My Hero Academia Season 7 Episode 8 is a testament to the anime’s ability to bring the manga’s intense moments to life with added depth and nuance.
In conclusion, My Hero Academia Season 7 Episode 8 stands out as one of the series’ best episodes, blending faithful adaptation with creative enhancements to deliver a powerful and emotional viewing experience.
Whether you are a manga reader or an anime-only fan, this episode is a crucial and unforgettable part of the My Hero Academia saga.
A writer with a passion for sharing insights on anime, manga, and manhwa.