Season 7 of My Hero Academia has burst onto the scene with an electrifying narrative, swiftly progressing after the protracted build-up of Season 5. The series opened with the captivating confrontation between Star and Stripe and Tomura Shigaraki, reaching its resolution in Episode 3. The enthralling plot twists continue to unfold, making every moment a captivating watch.
Episode 3, Villain, delves into the duality of All For One's villainy, using compelling and contrasting perspectives. A fierce rivalry emerges between All For One and his successor, Tomura Shigaraki, as they vie for supremacy in the realm of villainy, potentially leading to narrative complexities. However, All For One's machinations extend beyond this conflict, involving the long-anticipated exploration of the U.A. traitor, a subplot that finally resurfaces in the anime. Class 1-A's presence during this pivotal moment adds an extra layer of intrigue.
My Hero Academia Season 7, Episode 3, titled Villain, adapts material from chapters 335-337 and 338 of the manga. The episode begins with a flashback to the battle between Star and Stripe and TomurAFO, an anime-exclusive addition. This is followed by an improvised scene where Bakugo asserts their unwavering determination to fight, regardless of external threats. The episode also expands upon the Class 1-A training session, adding new sequences.
As Class 1-A trains, Midoriya pledges to protect them from future attacks, a statement met with support from his classmates, a change from the manga. The anime remains faithful to the manga's depiction of All For One's interactions with his allies, making no significant additions or omissions.
The episode shines in its portrayal of U.A. High's traitor subplot. Hagakure and Aoyama, both students, are shown in the forest surrounding U.A. High School. Aoyama's parents reveal that his quirkless status will be permanent, adding an emotional layer to his backstory. The episode effectively utilizes red hues to convey Aoyama's inner turmoil. Midoriya senses Aoyama's absence while Hagakure overhears his parents' conversation.
Aoyama's parents confront him about his deceptive past, culminating in the gift of the Naval Laser. Hagakure and the audience alike become engrossed in the mystery surrounding Aoyama's true nature. Deku approaches Aoyama to question him about his parents' revelation, leading to a frantic chase involving Aoyama's parents and his desperate use of the Naval Laser.
In a pivotal moment, Hagakure intervenes, deflecting Aoyama's attack and confronting his emotional state. Hagakure's face is revealed for the first time, and Midoriya uses Aoyama's vulnerability to apprehend him with his Black Whip quirk. Midoriya's tearful plea adds depth to Hagakure's interactions with Aoyama.
Following their capture, Aoyama and his family are brought to U.A. High, where authorities question them in the presence of the stunned Class 1-A. The principal requests the students' departure, but they steadfastly refuse. During the interrogation, Midoriya conveys his belief in Aoyama's potential to redeem himself by aiding in the fight against All For One. However, Aoyama's family disclaims any knowledge of All For One's involvement.
