In a lot of ways, this mini-arc reminded me greatly of the Jupiter Jazz mini-arc in Cowboy Bebop, in that both were shown mid-way through the series and featured tragic characters whose deaths were sad, yes, but also very fitting as it shows us there is no greater inhumanity and disregard for life than that inflicted upon mankind by ourselves.

While Black Lagoon sometimes seems to try too hard to be gritty and cynical, episodes like these temper it with emotion while others have touches of humor and paying homage to its action roots (the terminator meido, Chan Zhang’s channeling of Chow Yun Fat). Plus it doesn’t shy away from the ugliness of the organized criminal world and mature themes (I can’t think of too many other quality anime shows that touched on the taboo subject of kiddy pr0n except for Paranoia Agent).

I’d say this series is shaping up to be among my favorites right next to Cowboy Bebop (Samurai Champloo, while amusing at times, was a big let down overall). I really wonder why Black Lagoon isn’t getting as much attention and love as other anime series in 2006. Keep on blogging and I’ll keep on reading!