REVIEW: ‘Metallic Rouge’ Episode 4 — “Freedom and Phantoms”

Two competing elements dominate Metallic Rouge Episode 4. Both have become bastions, the foundation of this story and how it’s told and molded. The first is the density of the story, which expects viewers to keep up with the rapidly introduced new characters and their murky motives as they slink in the shadows. The second is the expansive worldbuilding aided by marvelous imagery. Both are compelling in their own right, but the latter helps balance the weightier items of the former. It’s not that the narrative is intricate to follow when it’s all laid out. Instead, the problem stems from the pacing and how and when each piece is introduced. Evident in “Freedom and Phantoms” when too much happens at once, the thread is lost.

This is a mighty shame, considering the extraordinary visuals that, on their own, do as much worldbuilding as the dialogue. Produced by Bones and directed by Motonobu Hori, Metallic Rouge remains a gripping and engaging piece of storytelling. The artistry, the character designs, and the inspired score culminate in building a well-developed and multi-faceted world, and we’ve only barely begun to explore it. There’s an appreciation to spare for a well-thought-out plot, but when it comes to science fiction, the effect is best when laid with a graceful, deft hand. Metallic Rouge Episode 4 suffers slightly from too much happening simultaneously.

As a moving carnival looms overhead, Rouge Redstar (Yume Miyamoto) is locked away, suspected of modern. Naomi (Tomoyo Kurosawa) tries to convince her to flee, but Rouge is steadfast in remaining put. She’s innocent and wants to prove as much. In a sweet moment, albeit brief, Naomi apologizes for their recent argument in Episode 3. She tells her that if Rouge wishes to stay put, Naomi will come to her aid instead since neither of them are mere tools. Both have their own free will.

That idea of freedom and how it pertains to humans and Neans is discussed in “Freedom and Phantoms.” Much of the episode is shrouded in chaos once human law enforcement arrives at the CNF camp following the news of Juval’s murder. The police quickly begin to brutally attack any Nean who stands in their way while Rouge flees with the help of Rion. But not even this escape is what it seems to be, with Rouge drugged and Rion betrayed as some of the real evils remove their masks.

It’s a whirlwind, devastating sequence as Rouge confronts the realities of her existence. In a confrontation with Doctor Afdal, he claims that he and Rouge are doomed to be pitied. That freedom is just an illusion, with members of the CNF not even being allowed to die on their terms. While the line between human and Nean has been drawn firmly in the sand since the very start of the series, it’s reinforced her. Afdal believes that freedom is an unachievable concept no matter where someone travels in the world. Something only fools dream of.

It’s an intriguing concept that builds on the action of the series. However, the impact lessens because we don’t know enough about these characters yet — especially any would-be antagonists — to immerse in their plights fully. For all its wonder and extraordinary animation, Episode 4 highlights the series’ main, critical flaw thus far. It’s clinical. Gorgeous but cold.

This is a nitpick, however, considering the other highs of the story. For all of its muddied plot beats and difficulty juggling supporting players, there’s an addictive quality to the show. There’s no downplaying just how gorgeous the visuals are. This is especially true in sequences such as Rouge’s nightmarish fever dream of past characters. The moment is hypnotic and unsettling. There’s a dexterity to the animation that gives specific, seemingly insignificant beats more weight. When the armor of Rouge’s suit bears weight, the metal bends links flesh, a living organism rather than a machine.

Equally compelling is the action on a smaller scale. From the tangible weight of Rouge bringing a chair down on a victim’s skull to Naomi demonstrating her considerable skill in combat, each beat feels the rhythm and effort needed to land a blow.

The score, too, flourishes in the episode as it plays with spaghetti western motifs and jaunty beats. Even if the story itself is dramatic, playfulness infuses itself into the story’s life. These elements, the otherworldly yet recognizable landscapes, give the series its charm and expressive sense of place. These components help shake off some clumsier elements that don’t so much bog down the show but hinder its greatest capabilities.

Metallic Rouge Episode 4 continues to tell an engaging, if busy, story. Finding its strength in the visuals and extraordinary animation, “Freedom and Phantoms” unleashes even more significant questions. As Rouge and Naomi each seek out the answers while dealing with their assignments, the series positions itself for its next big undertaking.

Metallic Rouge Episode 4 is available now on Crunchyroll.