THE NEW HEAD CAPTAIN - A Look at Shunsui's Character Development in TYBW | Bleach DISCUSSION

As one of the oldest captains of the Gotei 13, you might not expect Shunsui Kyoraku to change much - but when the Quincy wage war, he's forced to adapt into a position of authority and responsibility. In this Bleach discussion, we're taking a look at how Kyoraku's character develops during the final arc. Enjoy!
#Bleach #BleachDiscussion #BleachTYBW #BleachManga
__________________
Welcome to my channel! If you're a Bleach fan, you're already in the right place for:
Bleach manga videos
Bleach discussions
Bleach Brave Souls summons and reactions
TYBW anime episode reviews
Rankings
Burn the Witch reviews and discussions
...and much more!
Get involved in the community:
Follow me on Twitter - / mrtommo2304yt
Join our Discord! - / discord
Join our Brave Souls Guilds! Competitive - Wahrwelt23, Casual - Giftball23
Make sure to hit subscribe, explore the channel, and get involved in the discussion!
For business enquiries: [e-mail]

[@MrTommo2304]

What did you think of Kyoraku in the final arc? Let me know!

[@Jaketruescience]

Thanks for putting up another awesome video but where is the Jugram video?

[@barzan5048]

It was very nice to see his multi stage bankai and how he took over as captain commander

[@shahid3862]

I think shunsui was shown really well, like usually he’s so calm and we don’t really see him that serious, but by Kubo showing us how Shunsui really is in TYBW. We can really see how powerful and serious he becomes, I think that he would definitely be deserving to be the new head captain after Yamamoto.

[@kwanyy]

One of my favourites. He’s a very laid back Captain compared to Captains like Soi Fon which I love since it kinda lifts the mood up in serious battles, like during the Fake Karakura arc when everybody was pissing themselves against the Espada while Kyoraku was casually having convos with Starrk

[@alexisbamps2049]

I love the fact he made some controversial decisions. He chose to free Aizen, he made Unohana and Zaraki fight to unlock Kenpachi's shikai and bankai even if he knew he would lose a precious member of the 13th. And finally how could i not mention his fight with Lile who just one my favourite with the discovering of his bankai and his relationship with nanao and Use family. Even if she isn't important in all the past series that little development adds more sense to them relationship and on Shunsui's background. As my favourite character i would have loved to see more of Kyoraku but what i saw was really good to me ^^

[@heseemsnice]

Imagine how lonely he is now that old yama, unohana, and even ukitake isn't around anymore :((

[@maxime2445]

Byakuya, shinji and kisuke would be able to give him a good chat. Though yeah, he probably doesn't have a lot of friends left

[@lotusinn3]

He’s officially the oldest shinigami in the 13 court guard squads. Feels bad.

[@ju99yfresh]

Damn.

[@napoleon8017]

He doesn't exist bro

[@dalamlyntimawlieh5157]

Now he's like stark. Has comrades left.

[@residentevil2928]

Shunsui and Starrk would be really good friends if they weren't on opposing sides of a war.

[@ChasehaWing]

I could see them having a drink together.

[@obsidian00]

The bestest of bros...

[@komlat253]

Butt sex for sure

[@younghentaii1772]

I wish they brought him back during the war, it would have been so cool

[@houseofmatrix6174]

Under Shade he’s my second favorite character he was awesome

[@mr_sanders2u735]

Kyoraku is underrated. He was the only one that knows what it takes to get the job done. The Quincy decimated soul society and obliterated yama. He knew to kill evil you need a stronger evil. Hence why he agreed to bring out Zaraki's potential and use Aizen. Yama was considered invincible. With him dying they needed something extreme.

[@julianmarco4185]

Yes... but I disagree. I think that Kyoraku became exactly like Yamamoto. Remember Yamamoto orderes the extinction of the Quincy and that kept Soul Society protected for hundreds of years. It's no less controversial that Kyoraku sending or allowing all his friends to die in this war. Think fo the start of the series when you first see Yamamoto, the oldest Captain in history. How many friends did he let die under his watch or send to their deaths? DOZENS probably. Kyoraku has became the new Yamamoto.

[@mr_sanders2u735]

@@julianmarco4185 yama wouldve never released Aizen! No matter what the circumstance he was too arrogant to even think he would need to depend on Aizen for anything.

[@julianmarco4185]

@@mr_sanders2u735 yet Ysma allowed Ichigo to keep his Shinigami power. He allowed Kisuke to live and for him to train and help Ichigo defeat Soul Socity's enemies. They are not the same but Kyoraku could have seen something better in Aizen than Yamamoto did.

[@sternritter9788]

I still don't think the Quincy's strength warrants Kyoraku's decision to sacrifice Unohana. Kyoraku knows how terrifying Unohana is given that they're both from the first generation of the Gotei. Unohana is the best healer of Gotei and was THE KENPACHI. No matter how you put it, I still can't see how having 1 absolute killing machine is better than having both the best healer and a not-so absolute killing machine by your side.

[@mr_sanders2u735]

@@sternritter9788 True but some of the Quincy were pretty much unkillable.

[@Grayson-Winchester]

He was a better lord commander than Yamaji because he was willing to sacrifice unohana for zaraki to envelope the needed strength in order to challenge the Quincys and he requested the help of Aizen Sosuke. The old Yamato would have never done these things.

[@kensmilepachi3313]

Don't you all dare disrespect old man Yama the GOAT

[@residentevil2928]

Old Yamamoto would single handedly wipe the quincies though

[@lotusinn3]

Alex Colegate He should’ve finished them off the first time, like Mayuri said.

[@kensmilepachi3313]

@bsvdvj yzhhdvbf So what? Just another proof of how powerful he is that Kubo had to get rid of him at the beginning of the arc, otherwise the arc wouldn't have lasted much

[@charlie-_-7070]

@@kensmilepachi3313 so powerful he got defeated😐

[@riancarlson7924]

I kinda like that his character history and development wasn’t just left two one saga and was worked on throughout the entirety of bleach

[@SirTimidFlash]

The best way to sum up Captain Kyoraku is Duality. He's always portraying the basic common ground of every interaction, the neutral. When you first see him in introduction, yes he's very laid back almost doofy or aloof with how his subordinates are much more active and sensitive to the situation at hand. Were it not for the introduction of Byakuya, who cemented the league of power that Ichigo has not even manged to fathom, then you could write him off as a womanizing loaf. When he faced off against Chad he wasn't malicious condescending nor demanding, he went after him as it were simply a sense if duty; a trait from Yamamoto. The hint of the pressure he feels from his position, not just as he's captain but A captain shows back in the arrancar arc. He was fine seeing the fighting between the other captain and Espada, even seeing Aizen. When Ukitake was struck by Stark you could see within Kyoraku that something, snapped... or rather came to the surface. A level of tension and darkness tied together that shows when people he's generally close to are made vulnerable. This was a brief moment that shows how insidious he can be as well as protective and when you look at the fight as a whole this is Kyoraku at his discipline best. He is willing to let others try and prove themselves and even be relaxed in heated battle. If the people he is in charge of are overwhelmed then he makes it his objective to end the fight quickly. As perceptive as Stark was he should have made it a mental note to always keep an eye on Kyoraku when he immediately advanced on him after making a hit on Ukitake.

[@giovonemendoza6531]

Kyoraku didn't live up to the hype he set after the sneak attack on Stark. His bankai while cool was not nearly enough to beat the "messenger of god". Even if he is dark on the inside or malicious or whatever you called Him, his powers were no where near what they needed to be. I mean they hyped him up for what? To lose and get saved by a side character with a stupid ass plot weapon

[@zemox2534]

@@giovonemendoza6531 You do know there is more to a character than just power right?

[@boi.3242]

It was wonderweiss whobstabbed ukitake not starrk

[@SirTimidFlash]

@@boi.3242 correct, I tried to do that whole thing off my phone so I couldnt move from one vid to another.

[@ДушанПоповић-т6н]

Reread his fight with Chad few days ago... And we have a part where Sado one punches 3rd seat of eight company, and then Kyoraku appears... Chad states his shock about difference in strength between 3rd seat and a captain.... Oooh, that was lightly speaking and understatement...

[@scottgrasser9737]

ah that was the moment that chad forever became worthless

[@ДушанПоповић-т6н]

@@scottgrasser9737 I think he was great in Hueco Mundo... The moment he showed his left hand, Diablo! Whole arc was great for all characters, maybe only bit too much done by Ichigo.

[@kieriwelch5056]

@@ДушанПоповић-т6н yeah but that’s actually where he truly became a complete side character though after that he got no further advancement in power he just stayed a constant from there he never grew in power

[@ДушанПоповић-т6н]

@@kieriwelch5056 agree there. Guess he was not popular enough. Kubo tried to give him more importance in Fullbringer Arc, but even that one became centered around Ichigo and favourite Shinigami Characters.

[@caesar5588]

It wasn't just a difference between a third seat and a captain anymore, it was the gap between a normal third seat and one of the strongest captains to be specific.

[@user-yu2qs7vm7j]

I'd say if it wasn't for Shunsui and his decision that he made, Soul Society would've been destroyed already. He's easily one of the best characters of Bleach

[@RicardoPerez-rz8pu]

Sad that Ukitake died during the war he would've been a great supporter for Shunsuei since he and Ukitake are students that Yamamoto taught.

[@Pqihtyieojn12]

@Ricardo Perez I doubt that

[@dontworryaboutit5490]

@@Pqihtyieojn12then you’re wrong

[@martakavaliauskaite4566]

​@@RicardoPerez-rz8pualso ukitake was best friend of shuinsui like his brother

[@shihabsinha5497]

"It doesn't matter who is getting back at whom, once war breaks out everyone becomes evil". - Captain Kyoraku Shunsui (Ep. 283)

[@maxhosalamani484]

Shunsui is definitely my favorite Bleach character. Man's so carefree and super powerful.

[@lezard2102]

Kyoraku has one of my favorites quotes in any media. "Throwing away victory for the sake of honor is a rookie mistake. Captains don't have the time to waste on that kind of thing. Don't waste your time trying to play the good guy. No matter what debts you may owe, from the instant you find yourself on the battleground, both sides are evil." Shunsui understands the futility of war where both sides believe to be in the right for what they are fighting for and only leading to tragedy, which sheds a new light on his apparent lazy and carefree demeanor in approaching conflict resolution. Unlike any other Captain, Shunsui would rather try to find common ground and resolve conflicts without a fight first and foremost, but if a fight is inevitable he would resort to any means to finish the fight fast and ensure the least amount of suffering. Definitely a step up from Yamamoto as the new Captain Commander.

[@NotExactlyKB]

Well timed, my dude! I was just searching for a Shunsui character breakdown. Definitely one of my favorite Bleach characters.

[@MrTommo2304]

Thanks for watching!

[@slevinchannel7589]

@@MrTommo2304 Mr.Tommo! Please block this extremly toxic, insult-ranting person from your comment-section/s or even channel!: kzbin.info/door/tsDNGgF54yKLaV5yeCvIAgabout I know that that's surely not a fun duty, i really know, but seriously, toxic isnt a word for such people. Please take Action.

[@slevinchannel7589]

@@MrTommo2304 Mr.Tommo! Please block this extremly toxic, insult-ranting person from your comment-section/s or even channel!: kzbin.info/door/tsDNGgF54yKLaV5yeCvIAgabout I know that that's surely not a fun duty, i really know, but seriously, toxic isnt a word for such people. Please take Action.

[@CK-jd6yf]

In the turn back to pendulum arc, Kyoraku also stays awake at night and checks out(spies on) Aizen a little bit. After seeing he was still in Seireitei, he says "I guess I was too paranoid?" or something along the lines. This shows he was suspicious of Aizen and that something sinister was going on. I really like his wits.

[@lewisaino]

Wonder why he didn't mention to Yama o Utikate

[@Atopico8]

I was surprised when you mentioned that the fandom was taken aback by Kyoraku decision. Unohana was more than happy with that decision. She wanted Zaraki to inherit the Kenpachi title. She carried that burden for too long, and wanted to right the wrongs she did to Zaraki, namely when she put him into psychological shackles which prevented him to use all his power. And Kyoraku was the one who finally provided her the means to do so. Yamamoto failed to teach Zaraki and Kyoraku knew only Unohana could do it. He had vision. He knew that Soul Society needed a full-fledged Kenpachi at their disposal. And Unohana wasn't up to that task. Remember, she had lost the interest in fighting, Zaraki had proven to be the only one who could compete with her. A Kenpachi is the strongest shinigami alive, but as the series progresses, we can see that a Kenpachi is also one who enjoys battles above all else, that's what sets them apart from other warriors. And there can only be one Kenpachi per generation. Unohana wasn't up to that task anymore, unless Zaraki proved to be too weak to carry on the title, which she knew it wasn't the case. The only one who remains is Zaraki. This was a necessity. And everyone understood that.

[@kotickyle]

Shunsui by far developed into one of the interesting characters just even in the Arancar arc. His outfit perfectly reflects this. When he's facing Coyote Starrk, he first loses the pink komono as he starts to get series in nothing but his captain's robes. Then he loses the captain's robes and is wearing nothing but black as his attack style changes to the backstabbing shadow. Amazing little detail

[@nanasshi0711]

:o

[@rajneeshsharma6112]

My favourite captain and the best character in the Gotei 13.

[@colecook834]

His darker side was both expected and surprising. Kubo did an excellent job at his consistency with this character and his character growth

[@thegooseman90]

Kyoraku really gets overlooked. Loved the "ends justify the means" switch but i did wonder if he any contingency plans if Aizen went rogue again. I have a feeling Kubo was probably going to give us more moments and history from him if given the chance.

[@nathanielwilliams6664]

His contingency was the thing that stopped Aizen in the beginning, ichigo and urahara

[@ryuushinzo3559]

Actually, the breakdown for that was because Yachiru Unohana was the reason he put those mental limiters on himself. Kenpachi fought her as a child and was too strong. Because of those limiters he never heard his swords voice. She was the only person to bring out the true Kenpachi since he was her successor. She was the only one capable of drawing out his full potential. If you got that Yachiru from Brave Souls, the reason her hair is the way it is is to hide the scar Kenpachi gave her. The only way to bring out a monster was with another monster.

[@barzan5048]

The chillest captain

[@manuelacosta9463]

His support for reforms and turning Central 46 on its head means the war sure changed him while still remaining a lighthearted yet still deadly badass. That he seemingly despises the ancestors for what they did shows that even with his willingness to back stab he still has a moral compass. That was shown best when he stopped Nanao from finishing Chad, not wanting her hands stained with blood like his. Truly a legacy Captain/Commander.

[@kenpachi3898]

Something about kyoraku that makes him scarier than yamaji

[@m.4243]

It’s a real shame we didn’t get the same development and screen time for Ukitake like we did Kyoraku. I would have loved to see more interaction between the two after his change and their development together. Overall however I think his death was more to nail down the hardships and loss Kyoraku had to bear along with Yama in his transition to becoming head captain.

[@sixteenthbluemoon7606]

Not sure if it counts but, i've seen a fanfic where Unohana & Ukitake alongside Shunsui gain a whole lot of character development, although circumstances were... Different

[@SunMaster212]

Lee Del Mundo name ?

[@sixteenthbluemoon7606]

@@SunMaster212 the name is "Bleach Downfall" in FFN Although its considered a dead fic since the original author hasnt updated it in like 6-7 years I do hope someone picks the fanfic back up though.

[@LuckyDT]

My favorite character in all of Bleach hands down. Thumbnail kinda makes it look like he’s got an Afro though. The war definitely changed him. He swallowed his pride, freed Aizen, and looked to be taking the job a lot more seriously at the end.

[@MrTommo2304]

Oh boy, I can't unsee that now..

[@LuckyDT]

@@MrTommo2304 It was the first thing I saw, sorry man haha it’s all good though from one big Shunsui fan to another.

[@SeanNg__n]

@@LuckyDT oh snap.

[@JayfroC]

Shunsui and Byakuya are just in a tier of their own, as far as I'm concerned. Easily my two favorite characters in the series.

[@Nate-wu8rr]

I think many people miss the fact that outside of Yamma and Unohana he was probably the Strongest Captian until the 1000 year arch.

[@ZrodyApo]

He was ma favorite character from the start, something in him made you always think that there's more to the character than meet the eye Also he always had that melancholy in his eyes and it's reinforced even more after he lose both his sensei and best friend. And I really think that if Stark was still around, they'll be best friends because they're kind of similar

[@juanmunoz5708]

One of my favorite captain’s out of the whole series hands down

[@jasonsamueltoye]

This is by far one of the best if not best bleach analysis video i have seen

[@MrTommo2304]

Thank you so much!

[@jasonsamueltoye]

@@MrTommo2304 it has been great to see your channel grow. I like you approach, no gimmicks and childish things. Just pure analysis with no head canon and bias.

[@bryndt6647]

I always understood it that Kyoraku didn't changed but instead showed his true colors. He shows brightness in the outside but inside he is a deep, black, and a serious guy. Like the character of a shadow.

[@martakavaliauskaite4566]

Spot on

[@stormedrain]

Shunsui is easily one of my top 3 captains because of everything that he has gone through and done

[@CoopMy]

Shunsui Kyoraku is hands down my favorite character in Bleach and by extension, my favorite anime character ever. I'm so thankful you spotlighted how wonderful and nuanced this character is. Thank you for making this video and doing the Head Captain justice in this way.

[@MrTommo2304]

Thank you so much!

[@haroldsthoughts3628]

I just love his his overall personality and the way he handles things throughout the series. He is very laid back and chill at heart, but also has shown that he is capable of doing the hard things that need to be done. Shunsui is also by far my most favorite character in Bleach! And my favorite Espada is Starkk, just cause i relate to them quite a bit when it comes to being laid back and chill. And to show that Shunsui is my favorite character, i also have a picture off my Shunsui cosplay as my profile pic here on KZbin ( and yes i also have a Starkk cosplay xD )!

[@MrTommo2304]

That cosplay is great - I love that you've even got the hair strand!

[@haroldsthoughts3628]

@@MrTommo2304 Haha yeah that hair strand is quite iconic to his hair tho. I just need an eyepatch and i have the TYBW version xD btw if you want to see a full picture of the cosplay or my Starkk cosplay, my Facebook page is called: Taidana cosplay. I also have an insta page under the same name but ain't much on there yet xD

[@aizensosuke1491]

I like how he and Katen have matching eyepatch ☠

[@vanivinoba6581]

Aizen we're waiting to see you and your CHAIR!!

[@qorv4973]

I think his zanpakuto fascinates me. He is playful by nature yet circumstances force him into the role of a murderor. So his zanpakuto is metaphoric for that as he cannot choose the game rather Katen kyokotsu does for him, he foes with the flow His Bankai takes the form of Man's greatest game, a theatre play based off Romance. As is usual with Kyoraku, its grimm and somber in nature and reflects the tragedy of circumstances and he is the protagonist. Forced into the role of Captain Commander he acknowledges tgat the Shinigamis arent entirely just. Hes a phenomenally deep character

[@cyriszx]

I liked that Shunsui lost the same Eye as his Zanpakuto spirit is covering.

[@illusions500]

Makes me think of how it's the opposite eye of starrk resurrection, they complete each other

[@khaelstorm2552]

@@illusions500 more like together they are blind

[@illusions500]

@@khaelstorm2552 LMAO

[@windrook1046]

There is even more development for him in CFYOW! I like the way he is speaking with tokinada in it

[@ShadowShinobi2012]

I love the fact that Kyoraku seemed to not only make hard decisions that he felt needed to be made, but he also brought his personality as whole to the entire Gotei 13. It's not always honor that wins battles, but using whatever weapons you have available, even if it means trickery, deceit, or using an enemy of your enemy. I have to say that I absolutely loved his leadership style, I just wish the Kubo was able to put the same effort into the rest of the 1000 Year Blood War Ar cast.

[@andyzhang7890]

Kyoraku is probably my favorite captain of the gotei 13, a group that is already itself a masterclass of character design and writing. Thank you for this video.

[@MsMarty07]

I feel like you could have gone a bit more in depth into Kyoraku's Bankai, as the zanpakuto is a reflection of the owner: when Kyoraku releases his Bankai, everything in a pretty big radius becomes bleak and kind of depressing. The stages of his Bankai become with each stage more hopeless then the other. I also feel like this is his true character in lots of ways. The early "happy drunk" Kyoraku is trying to repress his serious side in a way.

[@bbqseitan7106]

Yeah that’s a good interpretation It probably gets stronger the more depressed Kyoraku is With everyone that he’s lost it’s even stronger than before

[@scottgrasser9737]

honestly i hated his bankai it was not very good for a fight it had all these stages...that did not matter as in the end it just cuts off the other guys head

[@MsMarty07]

@@scottgrasser9737 I think your synopsis of katen kyokotsu karamatsu shinjuu is way to short and partially missing the point. Sure it ends up with a thread around the neck of his opponent but during the different stages Kyoraku's soul and Lille Barro's become entangled with each other. Whatever happens to one of them, happens to the other.

[@lewisaino]

@@bbqseitan7106 So Kyoraku is powered by depression?

[@bbqseitan7106]

@@lewisaino essentially But I imagine its power doesn’t wane if Kyotaku becomes happier, it’s probably his absolute despair But yes; your Zanpakuto IS you. And his Bankai releases an aura of essentially depression

[@jaxattack4817]

Shunsui is just dope

[@JayemelMusicUniverse16]

I recently been reading/learning more about Bleach inthe past couple of months, so I found this to be super insightful and helpful to know the characters better and you do a great job with the breakdowns of them. Great video and keep it up!

[@MrTommo2304]

Thank you, glad you enjoyed!

[@Iceaiden]

he was always one of my favorite characters

[@jadenk.5003]

4:35 "He's got a great EYE for people..." Intended???

[@ventisplays]

I think the same. I personally wasn’t a fan of Kyoraku. But after this arc he became one of my favorites and I loved his evolution

[@coopy1154]

TWBW really made Shunsui my personal fave in the series. His character become more than enjoyable and funny and developed into a darker leader who would use every resource to help him win the war. He was the one who forced Kenny to learn Shikai and he let Aizen out to help. Also how can you not love his fight with Lille and that amazingly op Bankai can’t wait to see that fight animated.

[@kabelomkhabela4766]

I absolutely love everything Shunsui is in. One of my favorite moments that highlight his more serious nature is during the final moment of his fight against Stark. Love highlights how Kyoraku hasn’t changed, referring to his “tendency not to uphold the code of honor, like interfering with another person’s battle.” To which Kyoraku responds, “Only amateurs would give up a victory for the sake of their own code. Captains can’t afford such a luxury. Don’t try to be good. It doesn’t matter who’s getting back at whom. Once a war breaks out, they’re both at fault.” I think he’s always had the potential to be a commander given his natural instincts for battle. He’s also a very good judge of character👌🏾

[@AndréVilaFranca]

I love Kyouraku. He's one of my favourite BLEACH characters. I hope we see him in Burn the Witch. XD

[@cans597]

Great video! My favorite Bleach character by a country mile, i love talking about him on the Bleach subreddit. Experienced, wise, perceptive, strong combatant, peaceful yet ruthless when needed. Perfect to held that position as Captain-Commander of the Gotei 13.

[@estebanalcantara616]

Really glad that after reading the comments there are more people than myself whose favorite captain is Shunsui. Can't wait to see him in the anime comeback!

[@chawli2782]

He is definitely in my top 10, he doesnt fight with dirty tricks because in war both sides are evil And he made good choices in the last arc like telling nanao the truth.

[@Mugetsu2021]

He definitely plays dirty and yes admits that both sides are evil in war, but that doesn’t mean one can’t be dirty lol.

[@jenniferhuntley9769]

I truly enjoy your videos and your viewpoints and evaluations particularly interesting. Well done! I also find your background particularly well chosen and laid out...because I find myself suddenly having to rewatch parts because I got lost looking at all your books in the background and making mental notes to find that particular book...etc. I really enjoy all the characters of bleach and Shunsui is one of my favorite shinigami...tied with Jushiro and after Kisuke!

[@MrTommo2304]

I'm glad you like the background, I need to remember to add Can't Fear Your Own World Vol 1 to it!

[@edforeman92]

I think Kyoraku in Final Arc really suprised everyone. I could never imagine a lad back guy could be a great leader then Yamato. Also I think the eyepatch is burning reminder of whats the risk being a Captain Commander like Great Risk and Zero gain.

[@6xeros9]

My favorite captain ❤️

[@SeanNg__n]

@Alfa Samuel he's second favourite. Kisuke is my no.1

[@6xeros9]

Kisuke has a great personality and voice actor so he's my second favourite

[@SeanNg__n]

@@6xeros9 👍

[@tonybraswell2790]

Kyoraku reminds me of one of my favorite quotes. Stand in the ashes of a million dead souls and ask if honor matters. The silence is your answer

[@AliCatWrites]

Ukitake and Kyoraku are two of my favorite characters for a lot of reasons, but particularly their complexities. Especially Kyoraku. His character is indeed about duality, about where he falls in the spectrum of light and dark which is why I think shadows are so important to his character. Because that’s what he is, essentially. He’s this mellow guy who would rather chill on a roof, drinking and sunbathing like a large pink lizard, but he’s able to sink into those shadowy depths, to see and perceive, and get the job done when he’s got to. I think he’s a man, like Ukitake, who truly wants peace. But the two separate when it comes to what they’ll do in order to achieve that peace. Ukitake would gladly die, and did die, to achieve that purpose, but Jushiro wouldn’t have been able to sacrifice others. Shunsui, however, could and did. The ends justify the means for him, and I think that resonates with me so much because I’m very much the same way. I’m a pragmatic person, and I see that in his character. The final arc of the series is truly where he shines because we get to delve into the duality of his character. He was indeed willing to let his best friend die if it saved the world, but I don’t see Jushiro making that same choice. And of course it haunts Kyoraku; we see him drinking next to Jushiro’s memorial. It’s a burden he’s willing to bear, though. I only wish we’d gotten the moments between he and Jushiro that those characters deserved, to truly see the stark contrast between the two men. They’re an incredible balance for one another, and I don’t feel like we got to see Jushiro’s full potential. I’ll forever be bitter that we didn’t see his bankai. But yeah, I’d love to have had a whole chapter of just those two talking lol.

[@iurisouza1017]

Shunsui is such an interest character. He is such a carefree guy but anyone can tell that he has this darkness within, with is perfectly embodied by his zanpakutou. The way his shikai works with children games is youngfull but bleak due to the way it is used. My favorite monologue will forever be his, after he killed Stark (which was elevated on the final arc with Aizen and even Zaraki). He does not have the luxury to worry about honor or style in fights, he simple has to win.

[@aisheedyutiroy880]

I didn't know how much I needed to watch this video till I actually watched it. Brilliant analysis! 🔥

[@cecillegend9161]

The fact that Kyoraku can Manipulate Aizen into helping soul society without Aizen having much of a say in the matter shows the level of mind games Kyoraku is playing

[@th3ra83]

He is basically playing the mind games against Aizen, Central 46, Almost all of Gotei 13, Tokinada and Mayuri at this point. All of them are not just some puny figures. And Kyoraku wins most of this games.

[@alephthetheropod6210]

Kyoraku is definitely a stroke of brilliance from Kubo. I like that he wasn't overused like Hitsugaya or Byakuya with meaningless battles. I don't know if he has said so but I perceive he's easily one of his favorites. His design and arc are fantastic and he reminds me a lot of Shima Sakon. Supposedly he left his original master and as a ronin he spent his time with women and booze, Hideyoshi Toyotomi recruited him for the battle of Yamazaki because of his reputation and it's said that Sakon's tactical genius got them the victory. His wits got him a general rank and served under Hideyoshi's succesor Ishida Mitsunari and was said to have been that army's greatest asset. They depict him as exceptional and as the classic ronin type which I believe Kyoraku perfectly embodies. Kubo should try writing a seinen manga, his morally gray manly mature characters are his best (Kyoraku, Urahara, Isshin, Aizen, Kenpachi, Yamamoto, Stark).

[@AndreyIlievVT]

to be honest I think that Kyoraku's skills(zampakto) are perfect for Zaraki's training :) they both like playing death games :D :D don''t get me wrong I love Kyoraku he is my fav one but , both of them will do a great sparring :)

[@BlueScre3n]

I like it how you were able to change my opnion about bleach to be more positive. I didn't think it had so many layers on which you could talk about it. For example how you could talk about fights as finding out about some more facets from the fighting characters or changes in it. I didn't know one could do such a thing. Thanks man.

[@MrTommo2304]

I'm glad you enjoyed it :) Thanks for watching!

[@naraydaniels7832]

Yes man! Im glad you are one of the rare youtubers that talks about shunsui

[@MrTommo2304]

Plenty more to come too!

[@grainfrizz]

I knew he's gonna be my best character the moment asked Sado to drink sake.

[@sheenab81]

Yamamoto is old school, proud, and stuck in the old ways of doing things, while Kyoraku takes on a different approach to get the job done as the new Head Captain. So... I can basically say the difference between the two is very stark but can't find any fault. To each their own I guess.

[@alimohammadi1517]

knowing I would support bleach and bleach fans like myself , watching the ads doesn't seem so bothering anymore , keep it up bro

[@zackconley5642]

I think his Bankai is really the embodiment of his view on life. The bankai is a story, its a story of life. And he understands that life will just happen naturally and he wants to enjoy that story as much as possible because he knows how all stories end in death.

[@n1pah132]

The character who has will do anything in his power to win in a dire situation gets thrown into the most dire situation there is and is given the greatest power he can get.

[@lotusinn3]

Yup. My favorite characters in Bleach are Shunsui and Gin. So glad Shunsui got the development and respect the character deserves. “Who do you think I am? I’m Shunsui Kyoraku. Head Captain of the 13 Court Guard Squads.”

[@LuckyDT]

That was such an epic moment when he delivered that line to Lille.

[@lotusinn3]

LuckyDT Totally! It’s one of my favorite fights. Can’t wait to see it animated

[@Sobtoka]

Stumbled across this video in my recommended. Now that I'm subscribed, time to binge all of your video because they're awesome.

[@inphantri]

I love the way how you covered this area of the story. Your review is thorough and thought provoking. Keep it up. I have to come back so I got to subscribe. SELAH

[@mgustafson2010]

One of my favorites. His zanpakuto as well is so crazy cool! Love this man.

[@primordialious6945]

He would make a great Villain, and I have read ALL of the Bleach manga.

[@Deathsyth-ks8uz]

MR Tommo GETTIN IT!!! you go man!!!

[@MrTommo2304]

Thank you!! :D

[@jesserobinson1929]

Something I appreciate about characters such as Kyoraku, Yamamoto, Unohana, Byakuya, characters who have this demeanor that just hypes up their abilities, responsibilities, etc. while being hyper aware expected of them, yet they're still flawed.

[@ivylt1274]

Majority of the time we all got to see a more laid back and goofy character in Kyoraku but we all had the sence that there was more to shunsui's persona than Kubo led us to believe. One minute hes laughing and goofing around then the next the mood in the air changes when he becomes serious. That there is Power itself. Kubo did a great job in creating characters like Shunsui. Mysterious and fun.

[@kemuri_00]

16:20 I can't wait to see this scene animated

[@ninjaman0003]

i just realized that kyoraku actually has some symbolism going on with the stages of his sword. when we first see him in the SS arc, he's that lazy, loveable captain. when we see his shikai, we start to find out just how dark he can be. and then in blood war arc, he becomes head captain and uses very questionable decisions to win which is reflected by the incredibly tough choice his bankai forces on his opponents.

[@cromagnon01]

I am so happy to watch these videos of yours where someone truly delves into Bleach!!! Shunsui is hands down my favorite character! Thank you for the vids man 😁

[@Sippin_Coffee]

i havent even looked at anything bleach related on youtube recently lol either way kudos to you for being an even more diehard bleach fan then i am lol i really do appreciate the discussion. Bleach is so under-rated, its nice to see an interest sparking up in 2020

[@undacoval3rotha]

Oh man i used to be really into Bleach but i stopped reading during the final arc and never finished. This has me hype to go back and finish and see what the new anime is about. You got my sub and i cant wait to see what else you have for us.

[@MrTommo2304]

Thank you for your support!

[@kimimaro619]

So glad I stumbled upon your channel! By far the most in-depth and thorough Bleach channel on KZbin. Subscribed!

[@MrTommo2304]

Thank you!

[@V.I.L.98]

Thank you for the video of my favourite Gotei 13 captain. Really appreciate it, keep up the good work.

[@MrTommo2304]

Thank you!

[@frangio]

wow from september to december from 21k to 40k, nice content dude

[@MrTommo2304]

Thank you so much for the support :)

[@Sweet_Karma]

Hands down the best character from the start of the series until the end and my personal favourite. I still remember when he tapped Chad and sent him flying 😂 but I think it is so fitting him being Old Man Yama adoptive son and now he's the head captain

[@Naomi-gr7fm]

Definitely agree with you. Reading his development and how quickly he took up the mantle definitely elevated his character into one of my favorites. The guy considering his history and connections is super complex. He definitely was utilized effectively.

[@frozensaber7630]

Loved the analysis about Kyoraku's style as a leader. It remind me of Shinji during Turn Back the Pendulum when he told Kisuke to lead how he saw fit and if people don't follow you then you weren't meant the lead.

[@johng.8327]

One thought has been on my mind, what if Aizen had succeeded with his plan and then yhwach came in later. Who would've won?

[@IamBlackMagic03]

Now that is a very interesting "what if?"

[@PeachDragon_]

One of the most well written shonen character

[@scorpio110598]

From the second he was introduced in the anime, he has been my favorite captain, and this arc definitely solidified that decision

[@Ali-sh5sx]

A video about best captain? Insta liked

[@thatonetemplar]

Really like this sort of video. Can't wait to see who you'll do an analysis of next - I kinda want to see your take on Toshiro Hitsugaya, as I've thought up a lot of theories and concepts regarding his character as well

[@raht9578]

I like your name

[@thatonetemplar]

@@raht9578 Do you get the joke? Most people don't see it haha

[@raht9578]

@@thatonetemplar yeah😂

[@COSMICCHESH]

As longtime bleach fan, I have to admit you do great breakdowns. I see you too are a man of culture 👌🏾✨

[@BruderSenf]

love the machiavellian side of kyoraku ,underhanded deeds,fighting dirty,blackmailing ect (donst seek virtue in war)

[@alfredogonzales4391]

Exactly and he became the "Prince" that Machaivel had theorized.

[@xxzeroxx8417]

Just to add on to what u said about kyoraku's almost dual persona...I remember during the fight with Lille baro, after Lille survived his bankai, kyoraku was dejected and conversing with his zanpaktou spirit. She was persuading kyoraku to give up and just relax, just to runaway from his burden as he had tried everything and he gave it is all, so it's ok in running away now. Then hearing that kyoraku casts down his head, and the shadows cast in his face u can see how much he loaths all of this,how much he wants it to be over, yet he gets back up to fight. I love how the humane attributes of kyoraku are beautifully shown by Kubo. Truly one of the best characters in the entire bleach Universe.

[@joshuagreenough1954]

I've said it before, I'll say it again. The absolute best character in Bleach. The king!

[@GlitchingPony]

Awesome channel! Great refresher knowing bleach will be returning back soon, ah the good old memories :)

[@josephsabry5005]

WAYY better than tekking's discussions videos

[@LuckyDT]

Much less cringe inducing as well lol

[@josephsabry5005]

@@LuckyDT that's exactly my point

[@bryanvang9862]

@@LuckyDT But... we watch Tekking because of the cringe.

[@josuezarate5456]

Ikr this would of been ,2 hours and a hour and 45 mins would have been dumb filler jokes and cringe

[@RoachsFilmReel]

He did have a layer of darkness to him. Agreed.

[@Dragonk116]

Hence why his bankai is shadows

[@RoachsFilmReel]

@@Dragonk116 Quite right dear sir