Gundam Archives

The Gundam Conundrum

Episode 40: Lalah’s Dilemma

In this pivotal episode of Mobile Suit Gundam, the stakes are higher than ever. Originally airing in Japan on January 5, 1980, and later in North America on June 2, 2002, Lalah’s Dilemma marks a turning point in the series.

Modifications and Upgrades

The Gundam is undergoing significant modifications to address its inability to keep up with Amuro’s lightning-fast reflexes. Bright informs Mirai that the Federation wants White Base to return to Solomon, where work can begin on the Gundam. He believes Amuro’s reflexes are so quick that it’s as if he can see the future, although he doesn’t think Amuro is a psychic.

Enter Mosk Han

Engineer Mosk Han arrives on the scene, halting repairs on the Gundam to apply a magnetic coating. He claims this will enhance the Gundam’s speed, but offers no guarantees. Meanwhile, Kycilia is informed of Challia Bull’s defeat and inquires about her brother Gihren’s plans.

The Zeon’s Defense Strategy

Gihren reveals his plan to use the Granada and A Baoa Qu fleets, along with the Solar Ray system, as Zeon’s last line of defense. He believes there are three possible routes the Federation can take and wants to use the Solar Ray to attack them. Gihren also shares his vision for a dictatorship, where the superior races are kept alive and under the Zabi family’s rule to maintain peace.

Battle Intensifies

As the battle rages on, Zanzibar detects nearby Federation forces and sends out its mobile suits and the Elmeth. Char takes to the Gelgoog, requesting covering fire from Mulligan. Lalah uses the Elmeth’s bits to destroy a Salamis ship, showcasing her impressive fighting skills.

Amuro’s Resolve

Before heading out, Amuro has a heart-to-heart with Lalah. As the episode comes to a close, the stakes are higher than ever, and the fate of the Gundam and its pilots hangs in the balance.

Behind the Scenes

Scriptwriter Yoshihisa Araki, unit director Osamu Sekita, and animation director Kazuyuki Suzumura brought this intense episode to life. Interestingly, in the censored version of the episode, Degwin’s comparison of Gihren to Hitler was toned down to “the Fascists.”