Dr of Literature's FIRST React to Attack on Titan 2x12 & Discussion | 進撃の巨人 | "Scream"

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

Please Remember: No hinting. No hand holding. No foreshadowing. No "you should keep XYZ in mind" - otherwise I will start avoiding the comment section entirely which I really don't want to do. You all have the benefit of watching this show likely more than once. Let me experience it for the first time and discover its mysteries myself. Trust that the show will guide and correct me. There are so many things we can discuss that don't involve doubting my ability to figure things out for myself or relate future plot points back to earlier episodes. You'll not only ruin the experience for me but yourself too because where is the fun if you just try and guide people rather than letting us figure it out?! Put yourself back in your own shoes watching this for the first time. Would it piss you off if people were constantly attempting to guide your thought process or hold your hand instead of allowing you to work it out for yourself? The answer is yes. So please have some respect for me and other reactors by keeping hush. I understand the excitement but again - so many other things we can discuss. Thank you!

[@GoldPhoenix99]

This is definitely my favorite show of all time, I'm quite curious how your views about it changes as the show progresses. One thing I like about the show is how all of the little details matter. Almost nothing is superfluous, and almost nothing happens in the show that cannot be predicted if you're astute enough, but they also hold back details so it's also impossible to ever be certain in your predictions.

[@GoldPhoenix99]

btw, don't skip the OVA's. I think you watched Isle's Notebook already, but you can watch No Regrets now (2 episodes), and then after season 3 part 1 you can watch Lost Girls (3 episodes, though you can watch the first 2 now, do not watch the 3rd until you've finished part 1 of season 3). The other two OVA's aren't from the manga, are bad, and I have no idea why Wit Studio made them, lol.

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

@@GoldPhoenix99 No Regrets 1 & 2 and Lost Girls 1 & 2 come out this week [Tuesday and Saturday]. They've already been up on my Patreon for about 2 weeks :) Part 3 of Lost Girls I will watch after S3 is over. Patreon Members have been keeping me on the straight and narrow for sure with the OVA's haha! I tend to be a bit ahead of KZbin by at least 2 weeks.

[@RequiemForPAIN]

I've been wondering; it may be that all new comments are visible to you, before the moderators detect the ones that should be hidden? That's risky.

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

@@RequiemForPAIN My mods are phenomenally quick at catching comments - far quicker than I am reading them haha! In 3 months I've never seen a spoiler. It's the hand holding that sometimes slips the net through no fault of my mods. So I've started to give warnings on the videos themselves as a reminder. Some people just get excited and can't help themselves so I get it. I've found the reminder on videos as a pinned comment really reduces any attempts to guide. I love interacting with everyone so I don't want to have to stop doing that or restrict it to Patreon only as that wouldn't feel fair. I am very big on the community aspect of KZbin and making everyone feel valued and appreciated so can be a difficult balance and a risky one BUT my mods are absolutely a god send

[@MrSporkster]

Mikasa: 'KISS ME, YOU DAMN FOOL!!!' 😭 Eren: 'Just a minute, I'm dealing with 5 years of unresolved emotional trauma right now.' 🤔

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

MY BABIES!!

[@bradclements9517]

Eren's VA injured his throat on the scream at 13:30 and production had to be halted. Just another indication of how God tier the voice acting is in this series

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

DAMN!! You know what - that's dedication to your craft!

[@jessbellis9510]

@@DrSophieDarlingReacts Japanese voice actors go hard.

[@imaquackaholic]

No matter how many times I see Eren break down at Hanne's death, it gets my every time. I'm sure a decent amount of viewers have related on some level to him at that moment; thinking you've grown up, moved past things, gotten stronger...but then history repeats itself and you wonder if you even changed at all. The voice work by Yuki Kaji is incredible, and captures every essence of that feeling.

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

Truly is the end of his childhood but god this poor boy does not catch a BREAK!!

[@MarriedWithPizza]

Yuki damaged his voice in this scene. What a brilliant voice actor, and just a brilliant scene, so haunting.

[@hectorfeuer8138]

I cry every time... the lalala part always get me.

[@Nastyn1nja808]

simply incredible voice acting

[@kiiturii]

fr, I've seen this show and this scene many many times, and I'm always fine watching it, but then Eren's breakdown hits and Yuki Kaji's voice acting is just fucking immacculate and that's always the part that makes me tear up

[@Darksightkellar]

"I'm at a loss." Proceeds to demonstrate that she is, in fact, not at a loss. Without a rewatch. Going off of memory alone + it being a near-binge first-time watch through. What a demon.

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

I appreciate that haha!! Sometimes there's just a lot of thoughts going in my head that I struggle to verbalise so I feel like I have no clue what's happening!! 😅

[@supermariobros2166]

By the way you were right about Mikasa going in for a kiss there, however Isayama (the mangaka) said that he was too shy/embarrassed to draw a kiss scene. My goat is so wholesome and sweet T-T

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

That is so wholesome but god I am MAD!! I wanted that kiss so bad!!

[@ollipantsukka7211]

I'd like to hear source for this because of future event, which I don't wanna spoil here. Does not seem likely considering what partially triggers the last arc.

[@supermariobros2166]

@@ollipantsukka7211 you're not slick of subtle, highly suggest u delete this comment. Also you can literally just google what i said and you will find multiple translations of the same interview he said this in

[@ollipantsukka7211]

@@supermariobros2166 It is subtle, the only reason you get what i'm talking about is because you've seen it, all you can derive from this is the have romantic tention which is alrdy known by this point. I did google it, and found one article on comicbook website , but no interview., just claims.

[@ollipantsukka7211]

@@supermariobros2166 It is subtle, the only reason you get what i'm talking about is because you've seen it all you can derive from this is the have romantic tention which is alrdy known by this point. I did google it, and found one article on comicbook website , but no interview., just claims.

[@sbwroses]

14:33 Mikasa fully believed they were going to die here!! So she went for it. To deny the kiss is to deny their death 😭😭

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

BUT I STILL WANTED THE KISS for selfish reasons

[@LevinJoseph-s4n]

🤨​@@DrSophieDarlingReacts

[@ChenfengBao]

- "the outro is gonna be incredibly rambly" - drops banger analysis and theories Honestly, your analysis is next level - by far the highest quality of any KZbin reactors I've watched. With a few exceptions, I dislike long intros and outros for reaction videos, because they usually don't add much value. However, I love your intros/outros. They are long or short when appropriate, and always make your videos more enjoyable. Your literature background really shows, and I love that. You make observations and connections I didn't think were possible at this point. It makes me appreciate how much I've yet to learn in understanding stories and literary works. Even when you make the same points other people make (many say they "have a bad feeling" about Hannes), you articulate them so much better.

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

I'm going to cry!! That's so incredibly sweet and thank you for appreciating the intros and outros! My aim has always been to make the intro and outro relevant to the react itself. Intros as a recap of what happened last episode and also a chance to discuss theories that might have just come to me but didn't have chance to talk about in the previous video. Outro to just discuss EVERYTHING that happened in the show in as much detail as I can without having to sit down and script it all! Thank you so so much for loving what I do!!

[@sanji_joestar]

Perfectly described why i love her reactions!!!❤

[@Szaleoss]

Oh the title of Dr is earned for sure. The level of analysis is impressive

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

Thank you so much!!

[@showmakerrr937]

I cant believe Erwin's horse was the real MVP of this season , carrying those massive balls on its back , absolutely crazy.

[@RandomNorwegianGuy.]

This shows ability to create heartbreaking and tearjerking moments is unrivaled. And Hannes is just one, out of a ton of sad deaths. Also the entire soundtrack from start to finish in this episode is beyond perfect. It is literally impossible to be better

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

I get so excited each time I get to record because this show has my whole heart and soul!

[@MarlotteTR]

10:35 the way that Historia moves around with the 3dmg it reflects so well her newfound freedom, she just flows naturally, love it

[@Anna-mn5nf]

Yes, it's so balletic and graceful.

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

Yes - it's so very elegant!!

[@Dialga9187]

One of my favourite sequences in the whole of AoT for sure, paired with Barricades as the OST? Perfect mate, perfect.

[@JoanRaba21]

Today I don't think I have much to say after your discussion... No fun facts... No nothing... So I'm just gonna take the chance to thank you for sharing your experience and not only giving me an excuse to relive this story (once again) but doing so in a way that's bringing new perspectives and rekindles my love for this universe... Cheers! Let's go for the third, it's a good one

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

Aw thank you Joan!! This channel is nothing at all without wonderful people like yourself supporting my content! I've seen up to 3 x 2 and cannot wait to watch more on Monday!! Got No Regrets 1 & 2 and Lost Girls 1 & 2 coming out this week!!

[@Anna-mn5nf]

22:52 Erwin really does look great with a beard!

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

Right?!

[@aceofspoons8382]

My boy is a good looking man no matter what he does

[@shadw3112]

an hour long upload from sophie darling? this weekend's gonna be fantastic!

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

AH STOP!! A lot of the reacts this week for AOT are 1 hour plus! >.>

[@meritajaison2430]

​@@DrSophieDarlingReactsReally?!! Iam soo happy😅♥️

[@RoxxSerm]

Barricades, the song playing when Historia jumps off of Ymirs head.... its so damn good. Its re-used a couple time and always reimagined in epic or solemn ways. I love the song so much, and i really loved how angelic she is dancing through the air to it. She is so cool.

[@Anna-mn5nf]

LOVE hearing all your theories, ideas and thoughts, you're so perceptive.

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

Thank you so much. I am just in love with this series so being able to talk about it incessantly is what I live for!

[@reverberationtime4037]

FMA brotherhood is gonna be lit, the Adventures to be seen, so so excited for someone to experience it for the first time.

[@alohaferret433]

This is one of my favourite episode of AOT, because to me this accumulates what makes AOT peak quality. It is the Bravado, its the camaderie and slowly the music dies down to the point where it shows the exhaustion of the scene and by extension the characters, slowly that victory is being taken away from them. The overwhelming enemy and then the silence and then after acceptance. And then just when you think it's over, all of that is pulled away where it hits you with so many questions and leaves you weeping. This is what AOT is about imo.

[@sargantfrosty]

Why is every character in this show so damn impactful?

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

The beauty of masterful story telling!

[@MrSporkster]

Except Floch.

[@hectorfeuer8138]

@@MrSporkster Floch the goat

[@Sand_WraithPL]

​@@MrSporksterhow you moron 🤣

[@lucydoosydoo]

22:53 connies thousand yard stare look in this scene makes me so sad he doesnt deserve all the cruelty of that world

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

You just want to hug the poor baby!!

[@PhrygianTurk]

my fave ep in season 2

[@sbwroses]

3:55 Couldn't agree more. I feel that this episode is when THE shift in tone starts. It isn't even a concrete shift I don't think. It's the soundtrack, the lighting, the story starts feeling less nostalgic about the past, their childhood, and more hopeful (or not) but focused nonetheless on the future. It's a vibe shift in the storytelling

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

Absolutely. It's been so tense this season but I've realised that could be to do with Japan working with 4 narrative arcs instead of 3 which is normal in the West for story telling. So it makes a lot of sense if this is only the 2nd arc then it is building the bigger themes that the middle arc (S3) is going to delve into without us being entirely confused. But yes the creeping sense of dread is one I've felt a lot throughout these 12 episodes!!

[@MrSporkster]

Pretty sure this is the first time we hear 'Barricades.' One of my favourite tracks, it's an absolute banger!

[@lukejackson1575]

This show only gets better and better. Everything gets answered with time.

[@edc6172]

A new anime you will love that has the same level of profound writing as aot is Vinland Saga. It’s a Viking anime that focuses heavily on character development and emotion. Anyway, cheers to the end of season 2! Season 3 here we go, and it’s nuts

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

I was planning to do Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood after AOT and THEN Vinland Saga but I might actually switch them round as I've been told a few times that the writer of Vinland and Isayama are very good friends so might be fun to make some comparisons between their writing and see if there's some cross over between their perspectives!

[@YashamaruSensei]

@@DrSophieDarlingReacts absolutely agreee, Vinland is PEAK

[@godslonelyman6649]

hannes death probably is the one that affected me the most . just they way they did it and eren s breakdown . i watched this episode like 7 years ago and his death still makes me tear up everytime i see it . this show is just DIFFRENT

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

THE VOICE ACTING! God it sucker punches you so hard!

[@VladdViever]

​@@DrSophieDarlingReacts Yuki Kaji truly delivers a legendary performance in this episode and many more throughout the series.

[@theguyinblue2]

As for the childlike Titans potentially being Connie's siblings, it's also speculated that the Titan Sasha blinded to save the little girl may have been Connie's dad

[@BarrelFrozen]

Most legitimate reaction to this episode I have ever seen!

[@notKira_]

I knew this episode would make you bawl your eyes out you sweet soul

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

I had to go and lie down in a dark room because I cried so hard I gave myself a headache haha!!

[@notKira_]

@DrSophieDarlingReacts awww ❤

[@Atlas2911]

Fun fact: The whole season took place within 1-2 days and just a few days after season 1 . Thats why you didn't saw Levi that much in action because he still has his foot injured.

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

I know the time range :) I just missed Levi.

[@kalabhargavchalla9158]

With the information given by the show so far the way you are able to theorize and articulate the show's themes has been fantastic. Keep up the great work 👍🏾.

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

Thank you so much! I'm so glad you enjoy the reacts!

[@timopraxis]

Probably one of my favorite episodes of the series. There are some great ones to come but man I really like that scene with Eren screaming at his inability to save Hannes and Mikasa's response.

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

It's so heart wrenching. The voice acting has been absolutely out of this world!

[@MrSporkster]

15:38 I get chills every time I see Eren achieve his Super Saiyajin form. 👀

[@kaczka3526]

Funfact: Almost every time that I have to write an essay for school, I use attack on titan as an example 🙏 it's literally covers every topic (example: I had to write an essay about the evil in people)

[@magnusMVD]

Still enjoying all your theories ^^ Also one thing I find fun with this season is that season 2 starts with saying they think that there are no more titans in the 104th only for them to reveal 3 more titans in the 104th by the end of season 2

[@benmavinn1666]

I just noticed that Hannes's attempts to get to the nape of that titan was futile bcos SHE KEPT TURNING TOO🤯😳

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

Would not give him an opening!!

[@Mistryious]

Here’s to finishing AoT Season 2! 🎉

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

Omg stop!! That's so kind of you!! Thank you!!

[@MarriedWithPizza]

You're the MVP!

[@r_bear]

There are many episodes that always come up in the discussion of "best episode of AoT"-almost all of them from seasons 3 and 4, because the show really does just keep climbing-but for me, this one might just be the one to beat. It has so, so much going for it. I hate to make a list rather than having some poignant analysis to share, but the sheer quantity of important and beautiful moments is hard to believe (and like you say in your pinned comment: no hinting! no pointing! I really hate when people do that!!!): * Historia telling Ymir that whenever she's with her, she's not afraid, followed by that incredibly-animated ODM scene * Hannes sacrifice-and it's doubly bittersweet, because it confirms that he was 100% correct about taking Eren and Mikasa and running in episode 1, since he couldn't beat this titan even after sobering up and training for several years, meaning that he really didn't need to feel all of the guilt and shame that he did over those years * Eren's memory of his mother telling him that he needs to protect Mikasa-and he always feels like she's the one protecting him, which is maybe the source of his frustrating behavior toward her so much of the time * Eren finally having this incredible, rare power that's unique to him on the side of humanity... but despite this, just like he couldn't use it to protect Levi squad, he couldn't use it to save Hannes (compare the scene where that titan eats him vs the scene where it eats his mom) and almost couldn't use it to save Mikasa. I'm sure roughly 47% of the comments mention it, but Eren's VA seriously messed up his vocal cords with that laugh/cry/scream-it really comes through how he feels like no matter what his potential might be, he's still an unchanged, helpless, useless little kid who can't save anybody, just like he couldn't lift that piece of wood off of his mom * Mikasa's "confession" to Eren when she thought they were going to die... it's just so touching that even after seeing it literally dozens of times, I still tear up. She really drives home what Eren means to her: he's always been there for her, he's taught her how to live a meaningful life, and maybe most importantly: when she lost literally everything, he was there in that moment not JUST to protect her, but to wrap that warm scarf around her * Eren "refusing" the kiss, but really: refusing to accept the implication of Mikasa's confession; refusing to accept that this really could be the end. He was ready to try to protect Mikasa in his last moments by literally fighting a titan barehanded. "I'll wrap that around you as many times as you want. Now and forever... as much as you want!" is SUCH an Eren thing to say, but it's just so hopelessly romantic. Like you, it makes me just sob! I'm sure that same 47% of comments have mentioned this, but: Isayama said that Mikasa looks so beautiful in this scene because he drew her how Eren saw her 😭 * The music during all of this is unbelievable. It's incomparable! The way it cuts out when Eren is having his breakdown, the soft strings coming in during Mikasa's confession against the sunset, rising as the sun shines on those ever-present flowers when it all seems so hopeless, the piano when Eren refuses to accept... then the patented Sawano breakdown with the combination of the incredible orchestral melody driven by that synth that just SCREAMS "mystery!!", then the titan coming over Eren and roaring... it's just too much to handle * From a story perspective, we also learn so much: WHY was it so important that Annie, Reiner and Bert capture Eren? Their reaction when they realize that they guessed right about Eren is so great, too * Ymir's "I sorry" and the little hairstroke on Historia as she goes to save Reiner and Bert... man * The difference between Levi's and Erwin's reactions to learning that apparently titans come from humans-followed by Erwin's amazing line about "breaking down the wall hiding the truth" I dunno. It's incredible. There's just so much here to feel and love and reflect upon. As for rewatching S2: I know you're ahead in the show for members/patrons, but I do want to make one brief comment. I understand that time ain't free, *but*: this show is PACKED with things that have multiple meanings. After finishing 2x6, for example, going back and watching S1 would show you things that you wouldn't believe that you'd missed. Finishing this episode and going back would do the same. Then, watching season 3 would take those same things and recontextualize them even further-and yes, you guessed it, going back and watching after season 4 would reveal yet another layer of meaning. Of course, it's possible to just go back and rewatch everything when you're done, but then it's hard to remember: "wait, what did I know at this point? what didn't I know?" and the layers of reveals can get quite muddled. If at all possible, I recommend just straight-up blasting through prior seasons again whenever you finish a season. That's my Screed for this ep. Keep up the good work!

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

The only reason that I didn't rewatch is because time is not the same as what it was when I finished S1. Time was more of a luxury where as now I am going back into full time work and have real life responsibilities that need to be prioritised. KZbin also punishes inconsistency. I couldn't just not post AOT whilst I rewatched to film an outro. It's not fair to everyone waiting on it and it's not fair for me either when KZbin tanks it because it thinks I took a break. I'll absolutely re-watch the show as a whole once I'm finished but for now it's just unrealistic for me to spend that time especially when filming Death Note and Frieren + the amount of editing I have to do every day for Patreon and KZbin. I don't think the layers of reveals are going to get muddled for me because I have numerous long discussion outros where I can pinpoint when and where something clicked for me :)

[@thalunizz21]

When I was first reading this, my main question was always about the walls - where they come from? How doesn't anyone know much about them? Etc. So when this episode happened in the manga, my theory was: that someone with the ability Eren has made a bunch of titans make the walls. Due to the context clues that are given.

[@vikkkkyy]

I'm repeating myself here but I can't describe how much I love your analysis and reactions haha, I don't comment that much but I watch every video as soon as I can!

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

You are so very sweet!!!

[@jdtfr69]

this episode hits so hard, especially re watching. cant wait for next season

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

Yeah, the crying from this episode gave me a headache and I had to go lie down in a dark room haha!!

[@meritajaison2430]

That flower appeared a few times other than in this ep and the first ep...It was shown in that scene when Eren protected Mikasa and Armin from that cannonball by stopping it with his titan hand...it was also there when Eren and Mikasa were in that room at the end of S1

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

I know 😊 hence why I discussed the symbolism in my outro

[@canceroftheinternet]

You got me curious about the flowers shown and looked up to see what kind they were. A few things have popped up for me, but I think the consensus is that they’re bellflowers. From what I can see, they can symbolize gratitude, constancy, romance, everlasting love, death, resilience, and endless love and honesty. I could be wrong. I’m not a flower expert. But I think it seems to fit. Hope you enjoy Season 3!

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

Very similar to the Japanese Iris in the symbolism so I don't think either of us wrong! The symbolism of both flowers perfectly align to Eren and Mikasa's relationship. I just had to be very careful and not google AOT flowers because god knows what would have come up!!

[@umatentativadecanal8793]

I've seen this scene with Eren crying in several languages, including mine, and only in Japanese does it have this gigantic impact.

[@m4r4t43]

You're doing great! I really appreciate the insight and attention to detail. I hope you keep enjoying watching these series and doing these videos! You're one of the very few youtubers I have notifications turned on for.

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

I am so honoured and you'll be glad to know that I have no intention of going anywhere. I'm truly loving my anime-era!

[@thalunizz21]

That crying/laughing Eren always gets me.😢

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

It's just so heart wrenching because he just does not know how to react to history seemingly repeating itself!

[@Dialga9187]

"We shall not relent our land, nor yield the fight." Yeah, that'll do it...

[@hectorfeuer8138]

It's incredible how this show can keep getting better and better.

[@zoejnobaptiste3332]

Excellent analysis as usual even without a rewatch you notice so much. I'm very excited for your reactions to season 3. The back half of season 3 is rated as some of the best TV episodes of anything ever. Truly excellent. But for you and your brain the first half will be so fascinating. Much love. ♥️

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

You are so very kind!! I was sad I didn't have the time to re-watch S2 for a long outro so very much had to rely on memory which can be shocking sometimes! I just let myself ramble for how ever long I needed to and then just cut out long pauses etc! Seemed to have worked well! ♥️

[@zoejnobaptiste3332]

@@DrSophieDarlingReacts I think just from what you were able to remember here, the first half of season 3 will be very enlightening and intriguing for you. No need to be worried at all. Your intuition amazes me truly. Really great job.

[@Harukaze-san]

Analysis is your bread and butter, so it goes without saying that this was a great episode. But to hop on with suggestions, every show you mentioned on your list is fantastic, I'll throw out a couple ideas to check out: 1) Mob Pyscho 100, which is relatively short, is finished, and a great fun watch. 2) Vinland Saga - A very emotionally mature story with great production value, also by Wit Studios who did AoT S1-3. 3) 86 - Has some very interesting narrative and character storytelling that I think you'll enjoy analyzing. Looking forward to watching along with all the series you already plan for.

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

Mob Psycho and Vinland are definitely on the list!! 86 I haven't heard of but I'll add it!! Thank you so much. You see why I'm the odd one that loves the slower episodes in AOT because I can analyse more?! It's so much more exciting to me than action scenes haha!!

[@stellaisonline]

this probably isn't gonna be commonly requested but I think Serial Experiments Lain would be a really interesting anime to see you watch. Just because there is so much to dig into as far as actual analysis and theorizing goes.

[@kingtalk8461]

Gotta say I’m very excited for reactions to all the anime you mentioned at the top of this video. I love you reactions and analysis. Keep up the good work!

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

Thank you so much! I'm so glad you enjoyed!!

[@Sashadraga]

There is a quote from another snow "Dark" which I really like. I think it fits perfectly to aot as well and this episode in particular: *A man... lives three lives.* *The first, ends with the loss of naivety,* *the second, with the loss of innocence* *and the third... with the loss of life itself.* *It's inevitable that we go through all three stages.*

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

That's beautifully profound!!

[@thernymous]

@@DrSophieDarlingReacts Dark is a great watch too. It'll make your brain hurt with (really well done!) time travel paradoxes and loops. In the words of the show "Everything is connected."

[@May3529]

I dont even know how many times I've rewatched this series with people on KZbin, but I cry every time with this episode 😭. Also I just want to say feeling confused or like you missed stuff is a pretty general feeling a lot of people have watching this. I think it's fine just experiencing the ride without going back and rewatching every episode before moving on. But I do understand the frustration haha, it just made me want to binge it harder 😅

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

I really have to hold myself back from binge watching otherwise the analysis just falls apart because I forget to talk haha!!

[@skytterd9491]

Omg yes this is what I've been waiting for!! No matter how many times I watch, I cry so much during this episode 😭 I really can't wait for season 3, I just know you'll have so much fun analyzing it 😋

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

Analysing and likely sobbing!!

[@LauraVivian]

oh, 1 hour video? i am so ready!

[@alkedias]

Its almost time for peak. Cant wait to see your reaction to season 3

[@marcosa.6943]

not me bawling my eyes out with you during this episode haha that moment makes me sooo emotional. loved the 1 hour long analysis! can't wait for the season three, a personal favorite of mine. by the way, are you doing the Lost Girls episodes? they focus on Annie and Mikasa each, I believe you'll get great insights from both :)

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

Part 1 & 2 of Lost Girl's will be out next Saturday! I'm doing Part 3 after S3 is over. Tuesday is No Regrets!!

[@marcosa.6943]

@@DrSophieDarlingReacts omg TRUE, there's also No Regrets! i can't wait, you can see by my profile picture that Levi is my boy haha i just like him so much

[@yellowstar11193]

I'm SO excited for your reaction to season 3, you're going to love it

[@yolanisakati5481]

Lovely discussion, Dr Sophie❤ Your theories and ideas are really eye-opening and it's great to see the anime from a different perspective. Can't wait to see your reaction to Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood and Code Geass. They're definitely in my top 10😊

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

Thank you so much!! Yes I've heard such wonderful things about both so I am excited to get to them eventually!!

[@acereporter73]

That last memory of Hannes... 😭😭😭

[@tractorKing]

I love your reactions. I hope you find enough success to let you hire an editor & keep this as a comfortable side gig

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

Aw thank you!! I do love editing myself and I'm quite a perfectionist so I think it will be a long time before I trust someone with my content :')

[@vphxn]

amazing video and analysis ❤ absolutely cannot wait for season 3

[@sanji_joestar]

30:00 That's my interpretation too for the flowers Everytime they appear Eren and Mikasa are involved

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

I am probably wrong on the type of flowers but I was relying on Japanese botany websites as I knew if I googled "flowers AOT" I'd get spoilers of some sort haha!! Either way the meaning is still pretty apt!

[@sanji_joestar]

@@DrSophieDarlingReacts from what I've seen they seem to be Bellflowers. '' There are many meanings attached to the bellflower, such as a symbol of affection, constancy and everlasting love. A perfect romantic flower to give someone you will treasure for the rest of your life. ''

[@MiguelMaverickFelices]

the lil eren and mikasa at the shelf🥺

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

I'm hunting down the gang slowly but surely to add to the collection!!

[@TheKypps]

Full Metal Alchemist Brotherhood is a must watch anime.

[@meritajaison2430]

Sadly, your prediction regarding Hannes was true😭😭 this is one of that few moments in the show that I teared up😢 Everything was top tier in this ep...the osts, the animation, voice acting esp Eren's...omg!! It made this soo much impactful.. And yes, Mikasa really did a good job in strengthening Eren...And it can also be considered as a pivotal moment in their relationship.You know, Mikasa was always there to protect Eren as if he's a baby who needs protection..I mean we all know that she does that bc she loves him, but what he always used to think was that bc she thinks that he was some useless guy...She made him think it's wrong, in this episode....Eren's response to her was everything❤That would be the sweetest ever thing you would ever hear from him😂

[@MrNikolidas]

Dang, dude ain't even dead yet and we're getting an epitaph in the intro xD Edit: I didn't reach 1/100th of the volume of your conclusions at the end of this season, holy crap. I don't think anyone else I know analysed further than "this show is weird but now I need to see how it ends".

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

When I hyperfixate on something I hyperfixate and AOT is that for me right now! Poor Hannes was written off from Ep 7 by me :') I was adamant he was dying due to traditional story-telling tactics of bringing a character back in, giving him more humanisation and emotional moments with key characters, and the fact that it felt like his arc was in relation to Eren so with Eren being kidnapped and Hannes determined to pursue him - it just logically made sense to me in terms of writing that "yeah he's going to die trying to save Eren!"

[@MrNikolidas]

@@DrSophieDarlingReacts That's why you're the Doc :) I need all the pieces in front of me to solve a puzzle. I'd be a shit detective.

[@riteshsenpai6572]

watched 100 of reactions on AoT but yours is my favorite

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

Thank you so much!!

[@YashamaruSensei]

i'm so excited for S3 🔥🔥🔥🔥 Eren calling the titans was one of the most wtf moments i think you would like Demon Slayer, it's very popular, it mixes genres very well, it has peak fights, very emotional and cute moments and comedy. By the time you finish the seasons that are out, the final movies will probably drop as well 😁

[@LauraVivian]

There's always that drunk guy in anime that acts as a father figure and end up breaking our hearts when they die. - But seriously, Hannes had the biggest death flag attached to him this whole season, we could see it coming a mile away but... it doesn't make it any more easier. His death scene with Eren's breakdown and all that happened after that, that whole thing gets on the list of most impactful scenes AoT has presented to us, and that list will only grow more and more.

[@lurkingknight]

Eren is too exhausted to transform, From the end of season 1 to now has only been about 2 or 3 days and his transformation to fight with reiner between which he had his limbs cut off was hours ago. He's still in the process of healing. From the time in the forest in the fight with the female titan to now has probably been less than a week. Hannes turned out to be a good man in the end, freeing himself from the burden of 'what if' he had fought the titan in episode 1. He did have it in him to fight but he wouldn't have had the strength to win. He made the right choice in both situations that were required at the time. His expression at the end isn't one of fear, disappointment. pain or even regret but of relief. It makes a rewatch of the first episodes harder because Hannes was so hard on himself.

[@theowl482]

Since you asked for anime recommendations, here are some I think it would be good: Haikyuu: If you want to see other anime genre you haven't watched,Haikyuu is sports anime. It is very incredible anime. It makes high school volleyball player number in Japan to rise significantly. It is still ongoing series with 4 seasons and two movies(another movie will air this year I think). The other one I want to recommend is Orb:On the movement of the earth. This one is airing right now with 16 episodes now. It is about proving heliocentrism and finding the truth no matter the cost. It is an incredible show as well and by the time it end I think people will call it masterpiece. It will air all the way to the end in just 1 season(It is from a short manga).

[@Kojima-Iken]

シーズン２の完走おめでとうございます！ さらに怒涛の展開が待っていますので、そのリアクション動画を観ることがとても楽しみにしています！ これからも応援しています！🥰

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

どうもありがとうございます！この冒険であなたと一緒にシーズン 3 が始まるのが待ちきれません!

[@AutarchKade]

Don't worry, surely season 3 will be all answers and no new questions ;)

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

OH GOD!!

[@Zura-Janai]

I have a feeling we'll be seeing 1h long videos of AOT more often from now on, not just for season finales 😅. I know many of the topics and information we’ll get in future seasons might lead to some pretty interesting theories from you. And since you're pretty perceptive, we’ll see how close you get to breaking the wall hiding the truth, just like Erwin said 😉. I can’t wait for your reaction to seasons 3 and 4!

[@HolographicThoughts]

You definitely made a great choice by covering AoT Sophie. It's both popular and well written (A rare combo, imo), with lots of social commentary and speculation to chew on. You can definitely have fun with the popular recommendations being thrown at you in the comments but if you'd also like to keep the intellectual analysis ticking, I wholeheartedly recommend Ghost in the Shell: Second Gig (because it covers social influence, social hierarchy, terrorism, revolution, populism, AI, transhumanism, philosophy, existentialism, religion, and politics). It's very mature and dialogue heavy, and extremely relevant to 2025, despite being written in the early 2000's. It's a phenomenal gateway to the cyberpunk genre.

[@jazelrodriguez-xq1nt]

6:23 ¡GOD! A few of the biggest classic shows over there. Great selection. By the way I recommend a really good show one of the big tree Naruto. It's long but another master piece if you skip the episodes that are not necessary to see and don't aporte anything to the story. See it when you can.

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

I definitely want to tackle Naruto at some point as well as Bleach and One Piece but not sure when! They are quite daunting so I'll work up to them as best I can haha! Maybe do a long series along side a shorter one!

[@BobTheism]

As usual, you're sniffing up a lot of the right trees. And maybe a few... not quite right trees. And as usual I'll bite my tongue. But there are some things that I can talk about: First, I can glaze the voice acting. Often when people praise Yuki Kaji they point to the "Nothing's changed" monologue and for good reason. He really went all the way in. I also think Yui Ishikawa deserves praise for her performance as Mikasa in the "thank you" speech that serves as an answer to Eren's despair. She's been type cast a lot as the more or less robotic characters who don't emote a lot vocally but have emotional outpourings every now and then and I think she really shines in those moments. And before I leave the topic of voice acting I just have to briefly mention that we just heard the Beast Titan outside of his titan body with no filter and he is played by Takehito Koyasu who is really quite legendary in the Japanese voice acting scene. Many know him as DIO from Jojo's Bizarre Adventure and he is a personal favourite of mine. Of course he got a grand total of what? Three lines this season? Anyways, since you were examinijg the word coordinate I thought I might mention that the word used in Japanese is 座標, zaihyou. It does indeed translate to "coordinate". It is made up of 座 which means "seat", 座る means to sit, and 標 which can mean quite a few different things like "signpost", "mark", "target", "emblem" and "symbol" to name a few. Should any of those meanings affect hiw you understand the word "coordinate"? Man, I don't even know but it is kinda interesting, at least to me. On the topic of language, the Beast Titan's "not yet, huh? " is a fairly accurate translation of 未だかな, madakana. It can refer to something happening or doing something and I feel like it's written in a way that keeps the audience guessing while also being a pretty reasonable thing to be mumbling to yourself if mumbling to yourself is something you're inclined to do. Then again I'm not a native speaker of Japanese (or English for that matter) so I'm not entirely certain in that assessment. Last language thing because I think it's a little funny, the word used for Mikasa's scarf is マフラー, mafuraa, "muffler", it's a lone word, just the English word muffler mangled through the phonetics of Japanese and that tickles my brain in a funny way. That's all I had to say about that. I want to talk about the song Barricades that plays when Historia declares that she's not afraid and does sick flips through the air. The lyrics are in English and are interesting because they are directly connected to the plot and characters. In particular, the "main character" of the song imagines walking in pure white sand and gazing at the sun setting on the horizon without living in fear. "Wouldn't be sweet to watch the sun curve down meets the waves? And taste the ocean spray and realize we'd been living as slaves". It clearly evokes Armin's dream of seeing the ocean as well as Eren's desire for freedom. The chorus proceeds to declare that we have to learn to get out but is it worth the price of our souls? You know you had to kill her, oh my dirty hands it never fades. And if we get out, I'll think about the price of our souls, we'll live a life without barricades. You know, slightly paraphrased. I've wondered who rhe "her" we had to kill was and I have a couple of ideas but it's still a bit of a question mark. Still, absolute banger and definitely worth listening to in its entirety. Probably the last point in this essay I ended up writing but I did want to talk about Ymir as well. The Ymir we know, Freckles Ymir some call her as I believe she was credited as "Freckles" in season 1 before we knew her name. I have spent years thinking about her actions here at the end of season 2 and while I still feel a bit unsure as to exact whys of Ymir I think it basically comes down to two things. Thing one, she genuinely loves Historia and her actions are driven by a desire to keep her safe and give her the best possible chance in life, though not necessarily in line with what Historia herself wants. Thing two, Ymir is altruistic to a fault at heart and no matter how hard she has tried to build her cold and hard facade she cannot leave Reiner and Bertolt to die any more than she could leave Daz to die on the mountain during training. Despite encouraging Historia to live only for herself, Ymir can't live up to that ideal herself, whe genuinely can't help herself and sacrifices her own life to save even enemies. That's the interpretation I've mostly landed in. A part of me wonders how much of her actions are motivated by the invisible hand of the author who takes her away from the Scouts so she can't give them too many answers too quickly for the pace of the story but even if that's what it is then I can't even disagree too much. Gotta keep some surprises in reserve, I guess. btw, do you plan to watch the "No Regrets" OVA? Two parts, standard episode length. Not necessary to understand the story but expands on some characters. Most definitely worth a watch, can be done pretty much any time. Originally released between season 1 and season 2.

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

No Regrets has been out on my Patreon for 2 weeks. It comes out this week. Patreon Members keep me on the ball with the OVA's so I know when and where to watch them and which ones are important to the story / character progression. YT Members already have early access to No Regrets Edited. Lost Girls Part 1 & 2 will be coming out this week also! Part 3 I will be watching after S3. I don't think Ymir sees them as enemies. She sees them as people she owes a debt too in some shape or form through eating Marcel and stealing his ability. Part of her knows that she must repay what she took and in doing so she needs to cooperate with Reiner and Bertholdt. She's also had similar opinions to them both in relation to the walls and the lack of future, when Bertholdt is talking about how he did not want to have to kill people that resonates with Ymir as we can see she's almost emotional at his outburst. Like Annie - there is more to her than what meets the eye and she cares greatly for those around her. Appearances can be deceiving and sometimes such a personality is a protective mechanism designed to prevent one from getting hurt by becoming attached. That's how I see it. Just a heads up to the first part of your sentence. Maybe don't mention that I'm sniffing up wrong trees as that is essentially telling me that I am 'wrong' in my opinions which is a spoiler in a sense for future episodes :) It's safer to just say "interesting theories" rather than say what is right or wrong because it will make me over analyse everything I have said so far in an attempt to isolate where I was wrong.

[@BobTheism]

@@DrSophieDarlingReacts Oh ok, sorry. That wasn't really what I meant but I guess my English-as-second-language brain might have messed up a bit. Yeah, regarding Ymir what I said is also just an interpretation and it's not one I am so attached to I can't see different perspectives. She's quite a mysterious character that one. Good to know Patreon is on top of it!

[@dinVolt]

Oh, I know exactly the right good anime for your reactions - Puella Magi Madoka Magica. It's a story about magic girls that turned the whole genre upside down, in terms of influence it's on the level of Don Quixote for chivalric romances (just not satire). And speaking of really good stories, it's just impossible not to think of Neon Genesis Evangelion, but I honestly don't know how appropriate it is for reactions. PS. I too at the moment of Mikasa's rescue thought “Damn, he still likes her”. So you're not so alone in your shipping.

[@sanji_joestar]

Whoa 1 Hour !! Can't wait to dig in I heard Code Geass👀👀👀 Can't wait for that one (slight warning, the beginning can be overwhelming and dialogue heavy so watch out for that, Notes will be helpful!!)

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

I don't mind dialogue heavy - I'm a Dr of Literature. That's my bread and butter.

[@sanji_joestar]

@@DrSophieDarlingReacts 😌 Perfect

[@zavierfrost]

There's a wonderful meme I love about Attack on Titan, Season 1: Oh I know exactly where this series is going, Seasons 2-4: No I fucking don't!

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

Literally how I felt!!

[@KMSniper300]

Season 3 is completely insane probably my favorite until season 4 came out

[@dethronethegodsofficial1238]

Don’t worry Sophie….we are all crying with you. At least that’s what i imagine. A reaction channel community crying together so you don’t have to be alone with this

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

Can all hug one another to get over the trauma Isayama has inflicted!

[@jpcsdutra]

Starting by stating your ships online, that's true bravery right there.

[@julilevien5560]

You've decided on such a good list of animes to react to!! Fullmetal Alchemistt BROTHERHOOD is my fav after AOT and Code geass is also a gem ;)))

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

I can't wait to watch it!! Patreon decided on Vinland Saga first and then FMA:B but it is coming this YEAR!!

[@Starkiller2725]

I don't know how much can one poor boy take but i wwonder how did the actor's throat survive the yelling.

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

Lots and lots of hot drinks afterwards I can imagine!!

[@mitzmedic1985]

Your insights are what drew me to subscribe. 😊 If I may suggest since you mentioned you were gonna watch Cowboy Bebop, please do watch Neon Genesis Evangelion. Classic anime and one of my favorites. Consider Ghost in a Shell (anime) as well. 😊

[@GreatLevellerGaming]

It's funny you should mention zombies as the writer of the manga said he wanted to make giants the new zombie genre and I'm all for it

[@MarlotteTR]

Oh, dear. I don't know if it's part of your list, but "Ansatsu Kyoshitsu" is a great anime too. Would love to see you react to it ❤

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

That is not on my list but it will be now!!

[@Anna-mn5nf]

35:06 Yes, I thought they acted like children too.

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

Which is absolutely horrifying if they did turn out to be Connie's brother and sister!!

[@sanji_joestar]

Exactly The titan with disproportionate head and the two fighting when they were near the castle were acting like kids too Which could explain why the beast titan had to tell the one who ate Mike to wait twice

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

@@sanji_joestar The two fighting were the ones I was referring to but yeah the one with the disproportionate head could also have been a child!

[@edc6172]

@@DrSophieDarlingReactsit’s not confirmed but I think it’s definitely implied

[@xXRaulBXx]

Angel Beats!

[@lealelou8923]

After this episode, are you for the Jean/Mikasa or Eren/Mikasa ship? Thank you for all the work you do. You are amazing ✨️

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

Both - she should have both! 🥲I cannot pick!! Thank you! You are so very sweet!!

[@lealelou8923]

​@@DrSophieDarlingReactsI understand ahah. What we have to remember I think is Mikasa's wish as well as her feelings and I think we already know what she wants 💓💓

[@SenkoVT]

Some of your questions will have to wait till season 4 to get answered but i am eager to see what you'll do with the pieces given to you until then!

[@zoejnobaptiste3332]

In terms of new animes I think you may enjoy Haikyuu! I think although it's not the deepest or saddest anime out there, there is room for analysis in terms of the characters. And it's also very fun and sweet.

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

I shall keep it in mind! I do like fun and sweet anime too!!

[@zoejnobaptiste3332]

@DrSophieDarlingReacts Yay! The more I think about it the more I do think it would be a good fit for you. There is a lot to think about in terms of character mindsets and philosophies. It's a sports anime. Tbh I am not a sports fan and never thought I would like a sports anime but Haikyuu has easily become part of my top 3. Very well written with rich dynamic characters. The first time I genuinely got actual chills and goosebumps in my entire life was during an episode of Haikyuu. I've cried through many anime and different shows but for some reason that one moment in Haikyuu had me literally shaking. Of course it may not be the same for you but I think there's still worth and meaning in the journey each character takes. I haven't seen anyone else recommend it to you though so it may be a while before you can get to it. I hope it may happen in the future. I'm willing to wait a couple years lol 😅

[@cassnake1]

You know what, since you asked for other anime suggestions, I'm going to give you an anime that's not really reaction material and I've never seen anyone react to, but I think you might just be the one reactor that could actually give quality content on it. The anime is Mushishi and I am non jokingly pushing it as a suggestion. Now keep in mind that it is a slow anime and this is one of those titles that either you find it a masterpiece or you find it painfully boring. Therefore I can confidently say that its view count would probably feature in the bottom when compared to other popular animes, but I still genuinely think it would turn out amazing if you watched it!

[@Epistolary8]

There’s a mountain of plot exposition in Season 3.

[@Kevin-hd3cv]

My goodness, I hope people have told her she isn’t supposed to understand everything yet! AoT’s primary genre is mystery. It wouldn’t be a good mystery show if all answers were easily shown by the end of season 2! You’re following the story and making logical theories based on the given facts better than 95% of watchers.

[@DrSophieDarlingReacts]

They haven't thankfully! I'm just a perfectionist so when I haven't grasped something immediately I beat myself up a little about it haha!

[@jazelrodriguez-xq1nt]

58: 11 You can take notes if you want because you will need to remember, the most important things at least.