It’s disappointing that one of Claymore’s strengths, its strict adherence to the source material (a manga of the same name, if you don’t know), was dashed to pieces after episode 19. Had it not deviated from the manga, the show would’ve ended beautifully (end of the Northern Campaign arc), and Madhouse would be poised to create a second season once enough material has been delivered by the manga.
(pics to come later)
Ever since the Northern Campaign arc was animated, the Claymore anime has slowly deviated more and more from the manga. Raki’s scenes with Priscilla and Easley were done differently, as Raki learns about Priscilla’s true nature (which hasn’t happened yet in the manga) and rushes to Clare’s aid after Easley tips him off. On a minor note, the Clare-Flora duel did not happen at all, which is a disappointment for manga readers.
If episode 16 was all about Galatea, episode 17 focuses on Jean’s fighting abilities. Though the weakest of the single-digits, she manages to be the key factor in the battle against Dauf. This episode concludes The Witches’ Maw arc, which means that the epic Northern Campaign will be next to appear.
Very few cappable shots in this episode. Anyways, have an Awakened Jean.
The Witches’ Maw arc is picking up. In this episode, Galatea shows her awesome powers, and Riful does a stock shounen explanation of things. Oh, and some angry Clare too.
In this episode: reverse-trap Clare, Dauf (I refuse to call him Duff, which sounds horribly like a certain American celebrity’s name), and Riful. Raki only appears a bit, if you’re enjoying his absence (I am, since less Raki = more badass moments).
“Maybe I should lengthen my vocal cords even more.”
Our heroine’s battles with Ophelia come to an end in this episode. Not much to say about it, but I might say that Clare gets a massive power boost here. And what about her permanently missing arm? Find out more about how Clare gets around her problem here.
Erratum: Mistakenly posted this as episode 13, whoops. Sorry for that.
Claymore keeps on getting better and better. Last episode, we’re introduced to Ophelia, a cold-blooded warrior with no regard for life other than her own. This time, an old face reappears…
Guess who?
In two words, fucking awesome. Ophelia takes the show to the next level in terms of violence and all-out creepiness. This episode is all about Ophelia, who was the batshit-insane Claymore that Miria talked about last episode. And she’s No. 4 in terms of strength!
We see Raki play hero this time around, albeit in a very sympathetic manner. However, I have to hand it to him, having the balls to face Ophelia one-on-one, and trying to summon the power of Courage against an Awakened One. I’d piss my pants if I were in his shoes on both accounts.
OPHELIA RAEP
This episode is the final installment of The Slashers arc. While I find the naming style of Claymore’s episodes convenient (multi-part episodes are numbered), I would’ve wished for a little more variety. Or at least, make it something like The Slashers — III / III. I thought the arc had ended last episode, but anyways, it’s just a small thing not worth ranting on. Not much action here, but plenty of interesting dialogue to get into. We are also treated a glimpse into Miria’s past.
The music is still awesome. I’d totally get the OST for this show.
Relax, Raki. Clare’s coming back.
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