Two very important events occur in the 12 episodes bundled into this set—Firstly, the epic sky-shattering battle between Ulquiorra and Ichigo comes to an end. Secondly, the Visoreds show up! Now, let me tell you a bit about the in-between:

Props to Uryu for kicking major butt and aiding both Ichigo and Orihime in their time of need. Despite his cool, stand-offish attitude, his actions show that he’s a friend, indeed. His reappearance during Ichigo’s fight with Ulquiorra ensures Orihime’s safety. Her almost capture and/or death (!) is interrupted thanks to Uryu’s aid. This allows Ichigo to focus his attention on his deadly foe, unleashing his true power in the process.

Ichigo and Ulquiorra fight to their limits in order to defeat each other—both reach and exceed their limits as they unleash new forms in their battle. Ulquiorra takes on a devilish appearance when releasing his resurrección, Murciélago. His Spirit Energy is so tremendous in this form, that under Aizen’s orders, he has been forbidden from releasing it in Las Noches. The lengths Ichigo takes in his battle against Ulquiorra’s second resurrección are no better, as he takes on a frightening appearance of his own…

Monster and Man; Human and Espada. The attributes that separate the two are explored in Ichigo and Orihime’s interactions with their enemies. These two characters have an incredible amount of empathy for others, even those that wish them harm. Their “heart” as Ulquiorra calls it, is what separates them and makes them weak. Yet, this so called weakness has its advantages: Orihime’s “heart” causes her enemies to hesitate; Ichigo’s allows him to continue fighting against all odds. 

Ichigo’s strength of will is one of the aspects I enjoyed most about this DVD set. Ichigo and Ulquiorra’s difference in strength is one thing, but their “heart” was another matter all-together. This is one of those amazing fights that delves deep into each of the characters, and shows you what they're really made of. 

The DVD set concludes with the appearance of Hirako and company. The Visoreds have a major bone to pick with Aizen. They have such coolio designs, all so unique and vibrant, which is necessary to set them apart from the bazillion different characters in Bleach. Their motivations are explained via flashback and BAM! we get some action. Hopefully they can help our soul reapers out—Espada resurreccións are vicious and “even soul reapers are afraid of death.”

Is this DVD set perfect for Christmas? You betcha. Even better for New Years? Absolutely. Whenever I see my favorite heroes kicking butt, I always come up with better New Years’ resolutions. I’m sure you do too.

English & Japanese 2.0 Audio / English Subtitles
Episodes: 268–279
Special Features: Omake, Production Art
Bleach DVD Set 19 is available here! 

© Tite Kubo/Shueisha, TV TOKYO, dentsu, Pierrot

by Cat Rechsteiner