A review by theautumnalreader
Bleach, Vol. 20: End of Hypnosis by Tite Kubo

adventurous dark fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0


What a thrilling and unexpected twist! Aizen is by far one of the most well-thought-out villains I've ever encountered. He's so multi-layered in his planning and in a few panels Kubo showed us how orchestrated he is from Kaien's death to the hollows that attacked the lieutenants at the academy, to Rukia's execution. He seems to know everything and comes across as omniscient as the "God" he wants to replace at the top. Attempting to kill Momo was a devastating shock, but more so was the shared power that had Aizen seem so untouchable. 

I'm really interested in Aizen's interaction with Ukitake as he rises in the Menos beacon and I can't wait to learn more about this conversation. Additionally, I was stricken by the sadness of Gin to Rangikua as it felt like the only genuine emotion I've seen of his drawn thus far. 

Finally, I love seeing Byakuya prepare to sacrifice his life for Rukia as it's such a shape 180 from the previous 19 volumes. I hope to see him grow as Rukia's love and yearning for approval of him, even at her execution, was painful to read. 

Volume 20 was so, so, good!