The Tragic Beauty of Ekko vs Jinx (Arcane)

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Breaking down Arcane's weighted battle between Ekko and Jinx.
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MUSIC:
Memories of the Girl - Rain OST
The White Lady - Hollow Knight
Wilderness - Arcanum
Dated - Stuck in a Hole
Radcliffes Commission - Arcanum
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#ekkovsjinx #arcane #leagueoflegends

[@SagesRain]

i’ve just released the first episode of my bedtime podcast - Sleepytime With Sage’s Rain - you can find in on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc. Just read chapter 1 of Little Women! links below ⬇️ spotify: open.spotify.com/show/1DJDAdeAjujHIA272S9AhU?si=hMpL7TuqRcix4Wm7o0ccSA Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/episode-1-little-women-chapter-1/id1600742043?i=1000548759777

[@marciawilliams2499]

Thank you for sharing your wisdom with us.-Your Disciple

[@stormdanceimago]

Will you be going through the whole book? That one's been on my shelf for a couple years but I never got around to reading it

[@henryweinand8672]

glad I found your youtube I've listened to your podcast for over a year now! didnt actually know you were here too

[@collectivevision9884]

I love that scene when Vi carries Caitlyn out. When they show you how Jinx sees it in her mind, the image of Vi is completely scribbled out and darkened to make it seem like she isn’t even there, and Caitlyn has a demonic smile with devil horns; showing us that when she opens fire on them she only sees Caitlyn and not Vi.

[@alexhansen2102]

That makes her survival all the more tragic. She wanted to die as Powder and be free of her suffering, but the world in it's cruelty brought her back only to prolong the pain.

[@Hjernespreng]

It also works nively to show what a BAD parent Silco was. He was the father Powder WANTED but not the one she NEEDED. He manipulated her, used her talents for cruelty, turned her away from all who loved her. Then tried to monopolize her all to himself, which included ripping her back from the brink of death, damned be the consequences that Singed explicitly warned him of.

[@NRG-REC]

@@Hjernespreng careful now. To many in this fandom silco is a perfect father who never did anything wrong ever and was everything jinx ever needed.😐 It's generally frowned upon to mention any of the short comings that actually made him human and a compelling character.

[@Lissa2355]

@@NRG-REC I think it's because some people can't see beyond his love for Jinx. The classic "he really loves her, so how bad can he really be?" argument that results in toxic relationships being seeing as "goals"

[@DMrKunst2]

@@NRG-REC Its both. It's a complex dynamic.

[@zenzenitha]

@@Hjernespreng to be fair he was also sedated without permission and without explanation what the procedure entails. Singed *know* he would reacted badly if he know what jinx will get through in that procedure. It's just all around very tragic for Jinx.

[@bumblefuz]

This scene is a perfect example of showing instead of telling

[@XenoRaptor-98765]

“Action speaks louder then words”

[@sophieliu1837]

I didn't even realize that it wasn't the pink haired girl who made Jinx first snap! It was actually her being forced to face the firelights and has to quickly adapt in order to protect the shimmer which causes Jinx to snap and confront her pow-pow side

[@sophieliu1837]

Also Jinx's bomb are based off of Ekko's firelight designs...because Jinx had to use her Powder side in order to prepare for the firelights

[@prestigev6131]

@@sophieliu1837 hate to burst your bubble but jinx literally confesses to silko that she ran into a girl with pink hair

[@callmerenn5672]

*the entire show is a great example of showing not telling hehe

[@johnpeter2762]

Ekko became a leader. He was fighting against the corrupt upper city and Silco's people which is why he created hope for others, just like what Vander did. It reminded me of when Vander was talking to one of the enforcer and Ekko was secretly listening, I think that was the moment Ekko realized how much sacrifice a leader has to endure to keep his people safe.

[@rimurutempest4945]

One of the things I appreciate the most about Arcane is how the female characters get beat up as much as the male ones. They can hit and take a hit.

[@Liliphant_]

for real, like between Vi and Sevika there wasn't any femmey flashy spinny moves, just a straight up brawl

[@rimurutempest4945]

@@Liliphant_ Yep, and they also got muscle definition, so they really look like brawlers. Even Caitlyn has defined muscles, which makes sense considering she’s a police officer.

[@twentyonetortas5921]

fr they showed Vi bleeding and you can feel your own joints and bones hurt from watching her fights

[@windblade1205]

😀😁

[@avacadocap9591]

Yup. I adore it

[@nicolekane623]

The fact that Ekko had every reason to kill Jinx and finally get rid of one of the main people destroying his new family, and yet when he looked at her face he just couldn't go through with it, is just such a heartbreaking image

[@kyrex77]

"I had a crush, till you started talking to the gun" - Ekko That line from in-game haunts me after Arcane and I’ve fallen down an endless pit of heartbreak by becoming truly addicted to Timebomb. I just want Ekko & Jinx to be happy okay :( I also feel the story within this scene was kinda slept on, people don’t understand the importance Ekko & Jinx were to each other. Powder and Little Man were best friends, thick as thieves, and while everyone doubted her. Ekko was her true companion. We need more backstory to how Ekko became the fearsome leader of the Firelights, I understand they didn’t have the space to include that in the 1st season but we for sure need more of him in S2.

[@sophieliu1837]

From the cinematics where Jinx and Ekko have rivaliry that slowly turns into a warm friendship...so I Hope this is where Jinx ends up being in her final arc...as a firelight who can see all sides of the battle and knows how to direct people in the right direction....like Jinx at her happiest is strangerly during Piltover's progress day even thought the refined gem stone is the same tech that killed her friends

[@Frisky2timesCosplay]

I agree seeing the scenes that word made for the enemy video even mas me want to see these two more and the inevitable downfall of their relationship (friendship) im also a lover of timebomb

[@zora7031]

I feel like they didn't wanna go before the explosion for too long that's why there were only a few interactions between powder and Ekko. But those interactions made it worth while, in the trailer for it and in the first few episode, more the trailer. Pre the time bomb wasn't crazy investing, I thought it was the kind of show I could watch while doing something else, until the explosion when that hit, I realized it wasn't possible. And it was one of those shows that really got you. That and we would've gotten way too attached to Mylo and Claggor, I really didn't think they were going to like that. (I mean people were upset about their deaths without even getting to know them to the level of Vi or Jayce, imagine if they had shown their childhoods in those episodes). After the timebomb though, I remember waiting all week for the next set of episodes, and doing the same for the one after that. So I feel that they didn't go too into the back round for a reason.

[@The-Night-Hauler]

Yes

[@chocolattefeverdreams4228]

I'm still suffering from Timebomb brainrot and reading fanfiction didn't help :'(

[@Nyx_404]

I think Jinx's face right before she pulls the bomb is what gives away the fact she was trying to kill herself, if you watch closely, you can see Ekko smile softly, Jinx returns the gesture, but instead of it being like Ekko's smile which was kind of hopeful, Jinx's smile is remorseful, filled with a combination of grief and acceptance, she knows she can't get away, but Ekko has enough time to get off her and run, she could've pulled the synch near her leg or hip, where Ekko couldn't see it, but she does it in his view, positioning it so that he can't stop her, but that he can see it, it was fully meant to kill her, not Ekko, and the fact Ekko looks shocked and not mad makes this more likely (you could also say it's because he thought that Powder (who WAS the person he was looking at) wouldn't ado something like that, but I digress) but it's the fact you can tell these emotions from a fucking dialogue-less animation is fucking incredible, like, if this were a Disney film, you wouldn't be able to because thee faces are so overly polished and refined it leaves hardly any room for any emotion besides the basic five (happy, sad, angry, disgusted, afraid), Arcane's animation style is flawed perfectly

[@derekmarshman6154]

I commented somewhere else on this thread, but having seen this scene a few times, I noticed that Jinx has a particular smile: crooked, knowing, and naughty. The smile she gives Ekko is Powders smile: kinda awkward and sweet.

[@o-wolf]

This. Ekko has unbelievably quick reflexes.. she knew he'd be able to get clear.. she just wanted to go.. for him to let HER go.. ironically if u rewatch that scene &listen close.. u can hear the metal ping of Ekko smacking the grenade clear just before it goes off saving her life but critically injuring them both... It seems that even with all the pain of their past he just couldnt let powder go.

[@derekmarshman6154]

@@o-wolf "sometimes, death is a mercy..."

[@o-wolf]

@@derekmarshman6154 man I cannot wait for chapter two 😶

[@Dischargedpanties]

​@@o-wolf

[@ICEcoldJT]

“I hope you know… we had everything.” - Jinx

[@dc3032]

What’s poppin?

[@AustinKelly01]

Bruh

[@sheldoncooper8090]

When did she say that to whom i cant remember

[@CapitanDePlai]

@@sheldoncooper8090 It's from the song by Sting in the last scene

[@Legend-zk3kv]

Heeeeeee

[@artfaist]

After the crush ekko line they later added “I miss you so much” and “powder I-“ he was the reason we knew her old name was powder. I hope s2 they will be explored more. Clearly there’s some things left unsaid. Also an Arcane writer has hinted multiple times there may or will be more of them together next season!!!! So cheers 😂👍

[@selfloathinggivesmelife7810]

Wait, did a writer really tease more Ekko and Jinx?! I need the source, cause that would be amazing!

[@williamgostomski7380]

@@selfloathinggivesmelife7810 these lines are in the legends of runterra card game made by league, some more lines can also be found in league of legends where the crush line came from

[@sophieliu1837]

Whenever Jinx and the fire lights meet she realizes how much of powder haunts her even when she thought powder was fully gone...which caused Jinx to start crying and clear her clouded mind and let her finally realize that her curse and gift is that she was given the role of the death card...so she can always stay connected to her family...which happens dude to Jinx being forced to fight the firelights which she requires her younger inner creative child that is watch makes jinx an engineer she is both a scientist and an artist

[@unknowntopsecret41]

Only a true lol player who read the lore knows what really arcane is. And a little teaser it was doomsday.

[@Salemwaaa]

Jinx and Ekko flashing back to simpler times to when they used to play vs who they are now beating each other on the bridge is a stark contrast to them as kids. Ekko wanted Jinx to come back but after attacking Jinx and having that fight seeing her fully embrace death it’s like Jinx needed to be at peace with death as she didn’t have any fear of it. She could die while keeping Ekko’s memory of Powder alive

[@hecgzz]

Your analysis and discussion is amazing Ekko looked into Jinx’s eyes he saw Powder and it was satisfying after all the years of fighting for survival and rage Ekko finally saw the friend he grew up with

[@portsidedyldo2661]

I’ve heard people discuss Jinx’s point of view on the “look who it is, the boy savior” line. People were thinking that it seemed like she was thinking “so why didn’t you save me?” Ekko has helped everybody he could and this is the first time Jinx sees who is behind the mask too. After being beat by Ekko and Vi choosing Caitlyn over her I think she finally gave up and just wanted to die. She could’ve easily stuck the bomb to Ekko like she’s done to other people but I don’t think she was trying to kill Ekko.

[@SLYKM]

I thought she was just being really sarcastic and bitter. Like she has envy and self worth issues, thats he's loved for his creations while shes feared/hated for hers. I don't think she felt like she needed to be saved per se. But also kind of tongue and cheek kinda sarcasm, like she knows they are supposed to be friends but aren't. Idk having trouble explaining

[@Yanquii]

One of the showrunner said that there was a deleted scene in episode 7 (because the episode was too long) where Ekko was starting to build his community during the timeskip and looked for powder and tried to save her unfortunately something dramatic happened between them and cemented their relationship.

[@jeremyking2835]

@@Yanquii Awesome. Because that has been the way I read the line, that Echo had said the wrong thing at the wrong time, a conversation that turned to an argument that ended with the line "I'm trying to save you". I think their relationship is one of the reasons Jinx's bombs were firelights. I'm guessing whatever Echo and Heimerdinger are building Echo is going to try to use to undo the day everyone died, or earlier, and that's how he'll break time"

[@HK-gm8pe]

to be honest...with Jinx the most tragic is the fact that she wants to be loved sooo freakin badly ...she doesnt want to be alone but somehow she always ends up alone...and people always abandon her , in the bridge she literally sees her sister abandoning her again and they did an excellent job showing how she feels and how she sees world around her , her delusions were pictured perfectly , I can only imagine how loud it is in her head , like she said "nothing ever stays dead"...everybody always comes back to haunt her and dorment her

[@daniellado2523]

What shocked me the most was the way the characters reacted and way they did according to what they believed to be the best thing to do. Every character does what they believe is the best route to take and when those choices collide it does involve violence. It made me appreciate what each character brings to the story. PS: I hope more shows and movies try to do animation of this caliber.

[@Dextkiller]

I'd never realized how heartbreakingingly amazing that 2 seconds of animation at the very end of their fight is. Just the subtle shift of expressions on their faces is so unbelievably excellent. Ekko angry, and then confused, and then relieved and hopeful. Seeing an old friend he thought was dead and gone. Powder seeing him, and know that he sees her back. The little squint with her eyes and the smirk that tells him "hey, I missed you".

[@matthieuramazanibin-ali3532]

The way you narrate it is just beautiful

[@HolyMateria]

This was my favorite scene in the show, and just one of my favorite scenes from any series or movie. I definitely agree with your perspective that Jinx's bomb was meant more for her than for Ekko. Ekko barely broke his leg, while Jinx would have died for sure if it wasn't for the shimmer infused emergency medical attention from Singed. It's also just a more beautiful way to look at it. Tragic, but beautiful. Amazing video, as always! I can't wait to see more of Ekko in season 2! :)

[@NRG-REC]

This hasn't been confirmed so take it with a grain of salt but it does make sense. Right before the bomb goes off there's a loud ping sound. Alot of people theorize that ekko knocked the bomb away before it exploded which is how jinx survived at all. Realistically from that close range and her not moving to avoid it she would've gotten more than burn marks. Her body would've been in pieces.

[@HolyMateria]

@@NRG-REC Aww, that would be awesome! I'm gonna have to watch it again and listen for it 😁

[@caiuscosades362]

When Vi punched Jinx and told her Mylo was right, that's when Mylo became her voice of reason. That's what makes her shooting Mylo's mannequin so significant in the last scene, Vi was so close to getting through to her.

[@resoluteinterview]

“I had a crush until you started talking to the guns “ - ekko I would love for the line of dialogue to be said in a future season but not just thrown in there but placed in there at the right moment for the story. I didn’t know Ekko said that until I did more research!!

[@artfaist]

I miss you so much which was added this year so it’s ok so don’t be down 🤷🏽‍♀️😂

[@sofiagovea228]

@@artfaist Oh my freaking gwad... that makes it more canon :c

[@Chris_IIDeadeye]

I love how League of legends suddenly got praised instead of talked down on. i absolutely love this show its so good and i am so happy the creators took their time to make it great for everyone not just league of legends fans. i cant wait for season 2 and other series in this awesome universe with the coolest caracters.

[@CallMeSaltyScorpion]

People instantly separate League from Arcane. It’s pretty well known how horrible League players are and Riot refuses to expand on the interesting lore the characters have

[@Chris_IIDeadeye]

@@CallMeSaltyScorpion riot is constanty expanding the lore. and they are working hard to expand lore through games and events not just text. the problem is they have to many caracters to make lore for so they set something up for a caracter then it takes a while before they can continue on it.

[@Zarathustr]

@@CallMeSaltyScorpion That’s false. They are constantly expanding the universe. And you have to make peace with what league is. A TEAM game. Don’t take it too seriously because at the end of the day you can’t control what other people do 🤷🏾‍♂️

[@watermoof4914]

League is just dookie :/

[@imarock8763]

(League addict here) No the games still trash but the show is immaculate

[@thewanderingronin5433]

Hot damn he's doing arcane and my favorite scene at that, my prayers were answered

[@vta2265]

" I had a crush , until you started talking to the gun"- Ekko

[@cbrycem]

I think its a crow behind jinx, represents change in a character. She's constantly surrounded by them, when she shoots one to deny the change happening, at the end in the chair which represents her accepting that change. She is leaving behind powder

[@Yanquii]

Ekko's change is so drastic. We go from a baby with an innocent soul to a man filled with rage, bitterness and sadness. In all these years we have not seen him grow up and he must have had many difficult years. He had to build himself in a totally cruel city. Joining Silco could have been the easiest way out but Ekko isn’t a coward. (This doesn’t mean that Jinx is a coward, she totally isn’t. Jinx needed to be loved by someone and Silco was there before him) However, with all this he managed to give a smile to those who had none, but at what price: His smile... Jinx and Ekko are two children who had to adapt to a cruel world. The best way to recover for both of them would be to find each other. Saving Jinx will probably be his biggest challenge and he will succeed. The "boy savior" may be a nickname she gave him but there is a reason behind it. Ekko will shed light on her somehow... at least I hope so, we hope so… Ekko is the incarnation of Hope, so if there’s still hope then there’s still something to do. Plus: it's possible that Ekko doesn't know what happened during the explosion, if Jinx explains it to him, he'll probably be shocked and surprised, but he'll understand why she did it and probably tell her that she just wanted to help and that sometimes things don't go the way you want them to and she doesn't have to feel guilty for something that was totally out of her control. it’s totally in his character to say this. I don’t think he hate her but surely feel sadness and anger towards what she became. She has killed many people, some innocent, some not, and her murders are totally unjustifiable, but that's the way Silco educated her. She also changed radically. Seeing Powder embrace her Jinx persona might be cool for us LoL players but it’s not good, we just feel bad for her. We just want this character to have a real moment of joy. People will say that Silco gave her the love she wanted certainly but he didn't give her the love she needed, the one without lies. With all Silco love, her situation didn’t progress it became even worse. Silco may have said that she was perfect in his eyes, but when a sincere person who probably thought the same about you before ends up beating you up, you clearly aren’t. The way Ekko was beating the crap out of her wasn't satisfaction but frustration, rage. She never saw him that way. She's not the only one who's been through horrible things so calling him Boy Savior in this moment was the worst thing she could have done to his soul, it had to be the first time she realized she'd screwed up for real. So these 2 reaching each other to heal each other hearts is kinda logical. They were kids and their childhood has been put down due to a lot of tragedy (there’s no ship purpose behind this just pure and logic reflexion). Leaving Jinx being a loose canon in future seasons just for the sake that she’s a loose canon in the game isn’t interesting so I don’t think she will be the same as the game. (The fact that he have poor screen time just set a lot for the second season. With this poor screen time, he succeeds to do the impossible, reaching Powder again)

[@AustinKelly01]

This one gave me chills! The way you were able to describe this scene was marvelous man, jinx finally thought she could let go. She was saved by the boy savior

[@obadijahparks]

This series is a deep one. Way deeper than it was required to be. This is the way to do it. No more excuses, it can be done.

[@resoluteinterview]

In some ways the red strings of fate can somewhat cruel but beautiful at the same time because of how things can pan out for better or worse. In the end reconnecting the two. I’m not gonna lie, I always knew about League of Legends but never played it, the writers of this series did such a beautiful job it made me go out of my way to search up characters studies and on the game itself. I definitely want a season 2. Also another great video Sage.

[@loretoinesdepablogarcia2105]

The last take broke my heart!!! It’s how I perceived it and cry watching the whole fight . This Two we’re best friends and they were forced apart by the environment they lived in . This whole show is a big tragedy , it’s heartbreaking but at the same time the best series of animation I’ve seen in a while .

[@DEML91]

Although the fight is great its a shame that almost all the set up and relationship between Ekko and Jinx was removed from the series and only by watching main theme music video can we have a notion of how close they were prior to the fight.

[@samygonzalez9101]

@@leeblackwolf3158 they probably were talking about their friendship relationship and not a romantic one

[@razatiger22]

@@leeblackwolf3158 I don't think you can really say or claim that Powder did not have any of those feelings for Ekko. It was very clear in that last seen when she looked Ekko in the eyes she felt a profound level of comfort. almost saying to him without verbally saying it "I'm sorry that I turned out this way Ekko". I think its pretty obvious that they have feelings for each other outside of just friends.

[@amukhb8608]

I hope you do Vi next 🖤, your discussions and analysis are just good!

[@sikerscry6865]

A nice little detail someone pointed out to me: when ekko hits jinx's gun with his bat it makes a noticeable *ding* sound. Just before the explosion goes off, you hear the same *ding* sound. This implies ekko hit the grenade away, causing him to be flown off the bridge and jinx taking the most of the explosion. Ekko saved her life.

[@Borkingbuppy]

If she took most of the explosion how did that save her life? If anything that helped almost kill her, which admittedly seems to be what she wanted. Perhaps not saving Jinx but instead Powder

[@thatboyjay3020]

tech yes story wise but the damage she took put her in critical condition

[@tink6225]

@@Borkingbuppy i think they mean if it was any closer she'd have died forreal

[@nicolelazummie8098]

I never noticed that. Because in war the farther u r from a bomb the less damage u take, people that commented under u seem to not understand that

[@Borkingbuppy]

@@tink6225 This is true

[@jarektempleton2104]

Ekko, the boy savior, saw Powder again and that was enough for her to decide, in that moment, who she wants to live, Powders memory by killing Jinx. The boy savior won: he lived without any real lasting wounds while Jinx would’ve died without any aid; this is proof that the explosion wasn’t meant for him.

[@Ugh-r8m]

I’m pretty sure Ekko kicked the bomb away

[@slip-n-slide4807]

This show did such an incredible job portraying human facial expressions and emotions The fear, pain, and panic you see in Jinx's face when fighting Ecco and the way he looks back at her

[@NathanielNow]

When I saw how her face changed once Ekko saw the inner Powder, I knew what it was all about. What a beautiful time to die.

[@LindyLime]

She wanted to die as Powder. 😢 You are exactly right...to live she had to be Jinx, this was her last real attempt to hold on to Powder, not the doomed tea party...I think that was more about her moving to acceptance. BECAUSE HER NEXT SCENE AFTER THE EKKO FIGHT SHE IS FORCIBLY CHANGED INTO JINX FOREVER.

[@wicowan]

I'm so fucking hyped for their next interaction. Like Ekko will probably be the same, but jinx man, i dunno

[@iXSIKOBOIXi]

I think people need to understand that Ekko didn't actually avoid the final shot. Powder just didn't shoot him. And that's specifically Powder. Just look at her eyes and look back at Jinx's eyes throughout the show.

[@Borkingbuppy]

Went back and you're right, she just stood there. It's not like she couldn't have avoided gotten out of the way or pulled the trigger, she's shown before despite experiencing trauma mid battle she'll still move and react

[@Art_Owl]

No ekko jump to the sides when jinx was pointing at the middle

[@iXSIKOBOIXi]

@Art Owl not only does she not shoot but that's is a physically impossible move. Try jumping and then moving to the side mid air while swinging a big pipe and tell me that Jinx, the crack shot, wouldn't just adjust slightly to the side and shoot him if she wanted to

[@Art_Owl]

@@iXSIKOBOIXi Jinx can't move that fast to move to the side to shoot Ekko. If you look closely you see her trying to aim at him but it was to late. Plus she try to shoot him again when she was knock down on the floor. The only way to shoot someone's is to aim and you're jump can only last for a half second. I respect you're opinion tho.

[@khongorzulganhuu7623]

Just when you thought you were getting over arcane phase this video came along.. now I'm sobbing again

[@resoluteinterview]

Aye perfect timing. I’m in the car chilling here comes a thought provoking video.

[@phaikia13]

Ekko cannot use his "time-memory" to remember how to beat Jinx and forget about Powder the same time. That's why he couldn't bring himself to end Jinx / Powder.

[@sanobr318]

"And THAT, kids, is how I met your mother 🧐" - Ekko, probably

[@Hugo_Tate]

Don’t even know at arcane but I bet this is beautiful. Your videos are always a slap in the face

[@deivytrajan]

U must watch arcane. It's a series of a decade

[@danielramirezmasullo9602]

Jesus Christ Sage, you made me cry, such a beautiful analysis and deep meaning, awesome work like always

[@birdofapollo312]

I keep watching the emotions that flash across Ekko when he has Jinx pinned. The animation is so good that I can put thoughts to his expressions as well and Jinx's. His thoughts flash from "Wait" to "It can't be...." and then to "It's her (realization)" and finally "It's her... ( anguish, relief and (love?)). Jinx is goes from "please don't hurt me" to "you finally beat me" and finally "goodbye" as she looks to the side and releases the bomb. Masterful animation and storytelling.

[@clarissacota2047]

Been waiting for you to talk about this show, it's been at the top level of my attention span ever since I saw it back in November 😭💕💕 brilliant analysis vid, this fight scene was visually amazing, but it is so incredibly layered. Love that last bit you talked about, where Jinx was free and wanted to die as Powder... Top notch stuff as always man 🥰💕💕💕

[@SagesRain]

thank you claire!! i appreciate it 💙

[@t-boy1gamer137]

@@SagesRain can you please do Kubo the movie I've been waiting for this for a while and this is my second time asking you about this

[@Hanlunn]

Your ability to break down characters so seamlessly is impressive every damn time you do it. this scene holds so much weight in such a short amount of time. It's badass yet unfortunate.

[@princeollie1022]

Your analysis is very interesting! Thank you! 😊 I never saw it that way 🤔 My personal analysis is that because of all the trauma, she was also s***cidal. I think feeling like she was being abandoned again + fighting Ekko was just too much for her so she tried to end it. 😔 That look on her face was to me her being relieved that she chose to end it. Like "finally, I can go" or possibly acknowledging that she loves him (platonically, probably, but if you feel like it's romantic, it's a valid headcanon), but still feeling like she really wants to go because she thinks she's unloved.

[@cobalt-6D]

Makes me think of when Silco took Jinx to Singed so that he could save her. Singed warned Silco that sometimes death is a mercy.

[@kathrynroutliffe6105]

I can't tell you how delighted I am to find someone who interpreted the last moments of the Ekko/Jinx fight in a way that's very similar to the way I saw it. I think you're the first person who saw Jinx's ... I guess I'd call it weariness, the weariness of trauma and emotional illness, the weariness of a tired child, and her almost delighted resignation to allow herself to die. Your entire video was thoughtful and articulate, but what you said about those last few moments? Absolutely wonderful. Thank you.

[@jaroneller1525]

i love this video because i couldn't stop thinking about those last seconds of Jinx looking at Ekko. it felt like she was trying to say "i'm glad it's you", just like you described. this show is truly something else

[@FaiaHalo]

I was really looking forward to seeing a video produced by you about Arcane, since I always love your thoughtful, intelligent and deep analysises. And this one is a masterpiece as well. Thank you so much for all your work! Also, I noticed that in the scene you talked about Ekko's bright light behind him, there's a barely dim light behind Jinx, maybe symbolizing that there's still a "light", a hint, a little part of Powder left in her, that might've appeared during her encounter with Ekko, like you pointed out.

[@Butterzzzz]

if you look at 11:35 it actually looks like her eyes go back to grey for a second while she is hugging her sister, one more moment of powder coming back, just for a moment

[@jjlink300]

you can hear ekko hit the bomb away a split second before it blows

[@jamestolbert1856]

This fight was my favourite because of the symbolism and the painting

[@ninosteam3007]

Her kamikaze at the end was exactly the same as the finale of the Squid Game. She felt unworthy to be accepted back as Powder. If she allowed herself to be forgiven, she wouldn't be able to live with her guilt and shame anyway.

[@eternalstar4352]

Welp, I've got a new show that I've gotta watch right away now.

[@SagesRain]

it’s really good

[@troikas3353]

Vi never abandoned Powder. She was kidnapped while trying to get back to her in episode 3, she immediately seeks out Powder in episode four on the smallest hope shes still alive, the first thing dhe tells Powder on reuniting is that it doesnt matter what shes done or how shes changed - Vi accepts her. In episode seven Vi is in shock as powder tried to kill her without even a word and yet Vi still goes back for her in 9. Vi dedicated her life to caring for Powder and nothing about Vis story suggests she’d ever have rejected or left her. Vi never lied to Powder. By the end of the season Vi is the only person left that loves Powder unconditionally but the toxic abuse Powder has suffered and the paranoia shes crippled by has made her incapable of seeing that.

[@Zarathustr]

From Jinx’s perspective… she abandoned her.

[@troikas3353]

@@Zarathustr Sure.. because she doesn't know what actually happened. She doesn't know that Silco thought he murdered her and until ep 6 she doesn't know that Marcus kidnapped Vi. She doesn't know that her battered, badly injured, exhausted sister was ten feet away and rushed back for her with no hesitation only to be drugged and taken by Silco's goon. She believes Vi abandoned her because Silco has fostered that poison in her for years just as he's also tried to negatively alter her positive feelings and memories of Vander. It's classic emotional abuse where the abuser creates a toxic narrative for their victim intended to create a wedge between them and any other potentially positive relationship they might have or have had. The truth is Vi never actually abandoned Powder and there's simply no reason to believe she ever would. Vi's sacrificed practically everything in her life for her sister and never so much as complained about doing so. The division between Vi and Powder and the increasing mental hell Powder is trapped in are both rooted in the cancerous presence Silco has been in their lives. Even as late as episode 9 if he had not been allowed to spew his poison the two sisters would be back together.

[@jarednelson3539]

@@troikas3353 Then why she leave powder at that burning building. Then silco finds powder. Why didn't vi just grab powder.

[@asmodaymomo5780]

@@jarednelson3539 Vi just watched her brothers and father die at the hand of her sister. She needed a BREAK. After hitting her and seeing the blood on her hands caused by Powders nose she snapped out of her anger but she was still a child too and needed a break to process everything that happened. She never left she was feet away and she did her best to get back to Powder WITHOUT HESITATION before she was kidnapped.

[@TheSunriseAnimation]

at some point in "Arcane Bridging the Rift" they show how the did not only change jinxes eyecolor in her powder moments but they even constructed extra bones for animating her 3d model to shift her faces shape into a more powder like version. and in the scene you are describing jinx has this face, its more round and less bony as her old version.

[@nobodyinparticular1290]

That's what really makes Ekko's character arch great. Even though Jinx is too far gone he has hope for her still being there, underneath the madness. This hope isn't looked upon as a weakness, it's seen as something neutral, something intrinsically human. Other media shows this type of hope as futile, but a lot people have loved ones plagued by mental illness... so this kinda hope is all there is to hold on to.

[@jamz391]

It was mentioned in a live Q&A (March 22) with the show creators that there was supposedly a flashback scene for ep7 that takes place not long after ep3. It shows Ekko building up the fireligts gang AND *trying to save Powder* but it had to be cut off because there wasn't enough time. Gosh I hope they include it for Season 2

[@slimegod9693]

The most beautifully animated failure of a fight scene I've ever seen

[@369destroyer]

About the mural, as they show it you can see its bring added onto. They're adding the girl Jinx mistook for Vi. Ekko's definitely still dealing with a recent loss caused by Jinx!

[@InternetMother]

Amazing job! I've been loving all your analyses :)

[@chowrites6179]

I see everyone giving attention to Silco and Vander or Vi and Jinx and its nice, but Ekko deserves to get some more love! Ironically, its Jinx and Ekko that got me interested in League years ago(well, Braum and Amumu too). I've never cared for League but the lore of these characters is so good and to see it come to life in Arcane is amazing!

[@elijahbaker781]

“I used to have a crush…until you started talking to the gun” This scene took that quote to a whole new level.

[@ocsartobi6844]

Damn dude. I knew you'd knock this out of the park. But I didn't think you hit it so hard it'd fly over the adjacent park. Great video. Now I'm gonna go binge Arcane again.

[@ChickenTheThird]

oh boy i love crying in the middle of the day

[@aemi5929]

I love this analysis. This scene is absolutely my favorite in the whole show, the music, the visuals, the action. I never noticed the color of Jinx’s eyes or Ekko’s expression just before the bomb. Definitely makes me see it in a new light

[@unclebobboomergames]

The only moment to me more perfect than the fight is the dialogless moment viktor ran. And theres a lot of special moments in these 9 eps.

[@myahayes7458]

this is probably the best arcane commentary vid I’ve seen

[@derekmarshman6154]

I'm happy to see someone view this interaction the way you have. The show is very into leaving thing open to interpretation, but I think this is pretty clear. "Jinx's" smile is a crooked knowing smile. The smile she gives Ekko is ABSOLUTELY Powder's smile, kinda weak and awkward. Having seen her in combat before, if she wanted to kill Ekko, "take him with her", she would have clipped the grenade to him. She gave him ample time to see the grenade before she pulled the pin...

[@snowy2619]

WOW this was a great explanation of this episode, from showing how Ekko can run back time with his watch to Jinx dying as Powder. Extremely informative and entertaining video!

[@chloerimmingtonkane6285]

I love this video. I always come back to this video and I honestly don't know why. I'm pretty sure I've watched this analysis about ten times or more. I just think it's a gorgeous analysis and I enjoy listening to it when i'm working or writing.

[@itsasquid]

I knew this was going to happen at some point. I can't wait to see your take on it!

[@faded4520]

Just listened to your podcast it's so good 👍

[@SagesRain]

thank you!

[@ivancorredera4241]

This show really managed to go above and beyond in terms of ‘video game’ adaptations. I watched the Jinx music video and the promotional material for the league of legend campaign from eight years ago and although most of the main characters are still there, this show managed to write a compelling masterpiece with that material. I’m not familiar with League of legends lore and have no interest in the games, but the trailers and promotional work are really something to behold in a visual sense and did manage some emotional depth in their more lengthy trailers, which led to a rather common saying that they should just make a tv show. Well here it is and I’m glad it exists. Apparently this show was six years in the making and most of it was pre-production with a second and third season on the way.

[@nilelynch4783]

I honestly think this dynamic wasn't explored enough in the series. Ekko to me was under utilized. I would have loved his story to be more developed.

[@TrueBladeSoul]

That’s probably part of season two season one was primarily about Jinx and Vi in the undercity with caitlyn added in part two and Jayce and Victor in piltover season one is the setup and world building season as well as the Jinx and Vi season

[@nepntzerZer]

That look. A thousand words. Masterful.

[@jb0258]

I haven't watched Arcane, but still feel the weight in this video of everything that happens. Amazing work 👍

[@smallpiper2]

Her expression, the little smile, sticks with me too.

[@robertgalik2835]

The choice of Arcanum music was a genius move man. Props for that.

[@ClockMonsterLA]

Wow. That was such a powerful interpretation of that final moment in episode 7. Thank you for sharing that with us.

[@residentfacehead3465]

This is something i never expected and i had to do a double take i was on my subscriptions tabs and you werent someone else.

[@TheQuancy]

This scene hurts more when you find out that Ekko had a crush on powder. In League of Legends, Ekko has a special interaction with jinx where he says "I use to have a crush on you, until you started talking to the guns" In the Legend of Runetera cardgame, he says "Man, I miss you so much" and "Powder, I... nevermind..."

[@Vexclorion]

I was looking for this video! I saw it once and it was amazing, and sums up Jinx's acceptance of death in that brief moment of peace by seeing someone who saw her as too far gone see her again. Glad I found it again!!!!

[@niome13665]

Oh god, time to cry all over again

[@dung71099]

Powder die on that bridge with her parents and silco brought jinx back to life

[@Ugh-r8m]

Wdym mean with her parents and powder and jinx are the same person

[@509carrie]

Thank you. I think that is the most articulate way to explain that scene. Tears. Thank you

[@madhat.]

oh my goodness I have never noticed her eyes, the details in this show 😮‍💨. Loved the video btw keep going

[@heywhat6676]

Hearing Sage's Rain talk about Arcane makes me so happyyy

[@IlliaMamonov]

now I cry again

[@nepntzerZer]

This scene ... You just don't see this kind of thing very often. On my first watch I interpreted it as the real cost of violence, but on my second viewing having had time to get to know the characters and also knowing what the main arch is the subtleties come to the surface. This is some of the best writing I've have witnessed in a very long time especially in this modern era.

[@lowlife5011]

Hey bro I just wanted to let you know I love your videos. As far as Arcane goes, I had heard good things about it but my plan was still to not watch it, because I’m not a LoL fan. Then you released this video. I didn’t watch it, because I didn’t watch Arcane yet. Once your video went out on this show, I immediately knew I had to watch it so that I could hear what you had to say about it. It was worth it. I just thought you would enjoy hearing how much weight your words carry, at least with me. Please keep up the good content. And keep doing weird shit like that Little Women reading on your new channel, I think it’s badass. I’ll be listening

[@_khimcristy1865]

Oh how I would love for jinx to revert back as powder and to see her with ekko have a happy ending, but I know that won't happen. 😭

[@maryannaequeenofblades7148]

I beleive that the fact that Ekko was able to escape the granade almost unsaved while Jinx was almost killed supports your analysis, as it could be read as Powder giving him the time to escape the blast...

[@NRG-REC]

He smacked the grenade into the air which I guess technically saved her life(she was about to die anyway but atleast could be saved) had it exploded point blank next to her, silco would've found her body in multiple pieces singed wouldn't have been able to fix.

[@maryannaequeenofblades7148]

@@NRG-REC I'm sorry, but where did you see the 'smak the granade in the air'? I've rewatched the scene a few times and I don't se it... am I missing something?

[@NRG-REC]

@@maryannaequeenofblades7148 Sorry, it's not something that's been confirmed just a commonly held theory by most for a number of reasons. 1. Like I said a close up blast like that would've left her in literal pieces. She would've died immediately, no time for healing. 2. You hear a very loud thunk right before the explosion which is consistent with metal hitting metal. It sounds similar to the sound Ekkos weapon made when he struck her guns. 3. It's hard to catch but in slow mo you can actually see the pink flash of the bomb as it's triggered high in the air before the full explosion. Thus the common theory is he knocked or threw it into the air above them which saved their lives(well his cuz jinx technically still would've died without singed healing her.) But she should've been dead instantly otherwise so it still counts. Again, not confirmed tho.

[@maryannaequeenofblades7148]

@@NRG-REC Thanks for the explanation, I was starting to get warried my Netflix had an incoplete version... ;P

[@ejoshcoron]

You're video essays are incredible. This is the second one that's made me cry

[@constanceday2240]

I can listen to this over and over jesus man. You're voice is so soothing

[@viciousaldante9474]

I hope that in season 2 there will be flashbacks of what happened between episode 3 and 4, especially concerning Ekko and Jinx, because after Vi took her in her arms at the episode 3 he has completely disappeared, I would like to see his point of view concerning the death of Vander, Milo and Claggor, because if that is he saw everything from afar, also see how he found himself formed a gang. ...and also see how he knew Power and Jinx were the same person.

[@danithegoat1416]

That scene in season 3 when vi and powder argued. I’ve never been the gal to super pay attention to cinematic qualities. But god fucking damnit it. The voice acting, the smallest details in the animations made it 10x more hurtful. This shows animations is the best I’ve ever seen, it made me appreciate cinematography

[@czarsalesman4883]

You're one of the only people I have seen yet that brings up her action with the bomb at the end of the fight. If Silco had not shown up its very likely Jinx would have died, Jinx wasn't making a last ditch effort to win or hurt Ekko, she was ready to die.

[@Aison666]

Amazing and wonderfully eloquent analysis. It was a great video and your voice offers the perfect narration.