Re:Zero starting Life in Another World Season 3 – Episode 3 Review

Re:ZERO is back in full swing with its latest episode, offering an emotional rollercoaster as the spotlight shifts to Garfiel. Episode 3 of Season 3 delivers character depth, intense moments, and some surprising revelations, leaving fans eagerly anticipating what’s to come. The fact that White Fox opted to skip the ending (ED) theme in favor of more content is a testament to how much story this episode packed in!

Garfiel Takes the Lead

To the surprise of many, this episode revolves heavily around Garfiel, and it's a choice that paid off. Garfiel’s character arc has always been filled with inner turmoil, and this episode digs deep into his vulnerabilities and past traumas. His emotional struggles, particularly concerning his long-lost mother, are laid bare in a way that tugs at the heartstrings. Garfiel’s battles aren’t just physical—they’re emotional, as he wrestles with the pain of abandonment and the bittersweet reunion with his mother, who doesn’t remember him due to her amnesia.

Garfiel’s growth throughout the series has been remarkable, and this episode solidifies his place as one of the more complex characters in Re:ZERO. His relationship with Mimi, who provides some emotional support, adds a lighter, more heartwarming touch to the otherwise heavy plot. Their interactions highlight a softer side of Garfiel, making him more relatable as a character.

White Fox Skips the ED for More Story

One notable detail in this episode was the absence of the ED theme. Instead, White Fox extended the episode’s runtime to cram in more story, a move that shows how committed the studio is to delivering an engaging narrative. Fans appreciate these small decisions because it demonstrates how Re:Zero is willing to sacrifice conventional pacing for more meaningful content.

Trauma and Emotional Complexity

While Subaru’s trauma has been well-explored, it’s fascinating to see the series delve into Garfiel’s emotional complexity. Garfiel might not have experienced the same kind of physical suffering and repeated deaths that Subaru has, but his emotional scars run just as deep. The episode beautifully illustrates that trauma isn’t only about physical pain—it’s also about loss, abandonment, and reconciling with the past.

The stark contrast between Subaru’s harrowing experiences and Garfiel’s internal struggles is well-executed. Both characters are grappling with their own demons, but in very different ways. It’s a reminder that Re:ZERO excels in crafting multidimensional characters with their own unique paths and growth.

Garfiel's Emotional Reunion

One of the most heart-wrenching moments of the episode was Garfiel’s reunion with his mother, who has no memory of him due to her amnesia. It’s a gut-punch for Garfiel, who had longed for this reunion. To see his mother happy and with a new family, including two more blonde children, Fred and Rafiel, is bittersweet. Garfiel’s decision to let his mother live in peace, despite the pain it causes him, showcases immense emotional maturity. His tears in this scene reveal the deep emotional scars he carries, making him more vulnerable than ever before.

The Return of Key Characters

The episode didn’t just focus on Garfiel, though. We saw the return of some familiar faces, including Sin Archbishops like Regulus and Sirius, who are preparing for the next stage of conflict. Their presence raises the stakes, adding a looming sense of dread over the episode. The Sin Archbishops have always been one of Re’s greatest strengths as villains, with their dangerous ideologies and terrifying powers.

Regulus’ narcissism and Sirius’ twisted devotion to Petelgeuse inject a sense of unpredictability into the story, and the threat they pose to Subaru and the others is palpable. The Archbishops represent more than just powerful adversaries—they embody deep, ideological conflicts that challenge our protagonists on multiple levels.

Final Thoughts: An Episode That Delivers

Episode 3 of Re:ZERO Season 3 is a testament to the series' ability to juggle emotional depth, character development, and high-stakes action. Garfiel’s arc is front and center, and it’s handled with care, allowing the audience to connect with his struggles. His reunion with his mother, the emotional support from Mimi, and his decision to let go of the past all come together to deliver a powerful narrative.

With the reappearance of the Sin Archbishops and the ominous buildup of future events, it’s clear that Re:ZERO is building towards something monumental. If this episode is anything to go by, fans can expect more emotional highs, gut-wrenching moments, and intense confrontations in the episodes to come.

"Stay tuned for more insights and predictions in my Episode 4 review!"