Black Lagoon The Second Barrage Episode 1

Okay, let's talk Black Lagoon: The Second Barrage, episode one. Specifically. Remember it? Good.

Double-Dealing, Dual Pistols, and...Dull Moments?

It starts with a bang, naturally. We're talking explosions, shootouts, the usual Roanapur chaos. But does it really grab you from the get-go?

My unpopular opinion? It's...a little slow. Don't get me wrong, I love Revy. Always.

But the whole counterfeit money plot? Eh. It felt a bit like filler, didn't it?

Benny's Brains, Revy's Bullets

Okay, Benny is always awesome. His tech skills are seriously underrated.

And watching Revy dual-wield her way through goons? Classic. Can't complain about that.

But the bad guys? Kind of forgettable, right? They're just generic thugs in suits.

I mean, compared to some of the later antagonists? These guys are like training dummies for Revy.

Rock: Still Finding His Sea Legs

Poor Rock. He's still trying to figure out this whole mercenary life thing. Bless his heart.

He's just so… earnest. Surrounded by psychopaths with guns. It's comedic gold, really.

But in this episode, he mostly reacts. He's still in "wide-eyed newbie" mode. Which is understandable, but not super engaging.

The Tension's There, But...

The episode sets up the underlying tension between Revy and Rock well. Their dynamic is what makes the show special.

She’s brutal, he's… not. They clash constantly. It's beautiful.

But even their interactions feel a little subdued here. Like they're warming up for the main event.

Final Verdict: A Decent Start, But Not a Standout

Look, it's Black Lagoon. Even the "weaker" episodes are still entertaining. Gun fights are gun fights.

But compared to some of the later arcs? This one just doesn't quite reach the same heights.

Maybe it's the villain. Maybe it's the plot. Maybe it's just me being overly critical. But I feel like this episode is often skipped when people rewatch the series.

It's like the appetizer before a truly amazing meal. You eat it, it's fine, but you're really waiting for the main course.

Still, a lukewarm Black Lagoon episode is better than most action anime out there. Right?

So, yeah, I watched it. I enjoyed it. But let's be honest, we're all here for the Roberta arc. And that's perfectly okay to admit.

Bring on the maids with murder on their minds!

Okay, maybe I am being a bit harsh. But seriously, Roberta is just *chef's kiss*.

And this episode? Well, it exists. It's there. It sets the stage. Thanks for coming to my TED Talk.