“Arcane” Act 3 was released on Nov. 23, leaving fans with mixed opinions about the writing choices, pacing, and finale.
The show based off “League of Legends” takes place in Piltover and explores themes of power, betrayal, and ambition. The animation is incredible; movements are realistic and capture the emotions of characters through every interaction. Its unique art style makes the show look 2D while being 3D and the use of textures, like Jinx’s doodles, immerse the viewer into the watching experience.
Arcane certainly does not skimp on details. For example, there are short frames in the introduction foreshadowing events in each act. With its extraordinary storytelling, season two put fans on an emotional rollercoaster.
“I was just staring into my ceiling for 20 minutes trying to comprehend what just happened,” sophomore An Minh Pham said. “I started crying for a little bit, and then I started staring at my wall again.”
Several characters, plotlines, and concepts were introduced at a pace too fast for viewers to digest. Many fans believe season two was rushed and lacked the inclusion of necessary character development.
“Caitlin went from being a dictator to being called ‘cupcake’ one time and switching sides,” senior Brian Tran said. “This definitely could have been fleshed out. Even a third season would have been way better, but it’s still pretty good to me.”
Despite the pacing, “Arcane” does not fail to tug at its audience’s heartstrings. Episode seven, “Pretend Like It’s the First Time,” of season two contrasts the rest of the show, emphasizing tragedy through an alternative universe where a tragic incident plays out in a different way. It introduces another timeline where the relationship between Ekko and Powder can blossom, which left some viewers confused and others satisfied. Ekko is happier in comparison to his own timeline, where he sacrifices his happiness for the greater good.
“I think he’s a very, very selfless person,” Tran said. “I feel like it accurately highlights all his positive traits.”
The details in episode seven were purposeful. The parallels between the different timelines capture this feeling and the blue rose necklace, which depicts Ekko and Powder’s side profiles, is associated with the idea of unattainable love as blue roses are not naturally occuring. Ekko and Jinx’s relationship is romantic and beautiful; the episode captures their chemistry and what could have been, making each moment all the more bittersweet.
“Arcane’s” finale left viewers with an abundance of questions. Several characters disappeared and new shifts of power were not explained in depth, though the open ending has led some fans to speculate another series that takes place in the same universe. Albeit, “Arcane” is a show that stands out from the rest. Its unforgettable visuals, complex characters and character relationships, as well as deeply moving moments stick with the audience long after the credits roll.
