The preview for Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War Episode 38 is here, and it teases an emotional yet action-packed episode. Titled FRIEND, the upcoming episode will focus on the intense battle between Jugram Haschwalth and Bazz-B. More importantly, it will explore their past and how their friendship turned into a tragic rivalry.
The episode is scheduled to release on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at 11 PM JST on TV Tokyo and other Japanese networks.
The Story So Far
In the previous episode, the fierce battle against Lille Barro took an unexpected turn. After Shunsui Kyoraku’s Bankai failed to fully defeat him, Lille resurrected into a terrifying second form. Nanao Ise returned to the battlefield and bravely wielded the Ise Clan’s sacred sword, Shinken Hakkyoken, to take down Lille. The episode highlighted her sacrifice and determination to fight alongside Shunsui.
With that battle wrapped up, Episode 38 shifts its focus to Bazz-B and Jugram.
Jugram vs. Bazz-B: A Friendship Torn Apart
According to the official synopsis, Bleach TYBW Episode 38 will highlight Bazz-B’s attempt to settle a score with Jugram Haschwalth. Bazz-B, fueled by anger and betrayal, challenges Jugram at the Wahrwelt castle. Their fight, however, is much more than a physical clash.
The preview reveals that the episode will dive into Bazz-B and Jugram’s shared past. Fans will get to see how the two first met as children, when they called each other “Buzz” and “Jugo.” They bonded over a shared dream of becoming the “strongest Quincy”, pushing each other to grow stronger.
However, everything changed when Yhwach, the Quincy King, entered their lives. His arrival marked a turning point that broke their friendship and placed them on opposite paths. Jugram’s loyalty to Yhwach contrasts sharply with Bazz-B’s resentment, leading to their inevitable confrontation.
Emotional Flashbacks and Stunning Animation
The preview images show younger versions of Jugram and Bazz-B, hinting at heartwarming yet tragic flashbacks. Chiaki Kobayashi and Marina Inoue will voice the younger versions of Bazz-B and Jugram, respectively. Fans can also expect to see a younger Yhwach, whose presence shaped their destinies.
The battle itself promises stunning animation as Jugram and Bazz-B showcase their unique abilities. Jugram, wielding “The Balance,” can manipulate fortune and misfortune, while Bazz-B uses powerful fire techniques as “The Heat.”
Star-Studded Production Team
The episode will be brought to life by an experienced production team. Masaki Hiramatsu returns to handle the screenplay, while Yasuaki Kurotsu works on storyboarding under the direction of Dali Chen.
Notable names like Saeko Ozawa, Cindy H. Yamauchi, Tomoko Hayashi, and Kazuo Takigawa will serve as animation directors. Cindy H. Yamauchi, in particular, has delivered stunning work in Episodes 27 and 30.
Dali Chen, who directed Episode 33 featuring the praised Uryu vs. Renji fight, will make their second appearance as episode director. With this talented lineup, fans can expect a mix of intense action and emotional storytelling.
Why Episode 38 is Important
The upcoming episode not only delivers a thrilling fight but also explores themes of friendship, betrayal, and destiny. Bazz-B and Jugram’s story is one of ambition, loyalty, and heartbreak. Seeing their past unfold will give fans a deeper understanding of both characters and their choices.
