Re-Entry to Earth: A Turning Point in the Gundam Saga
The fifth episode of Mobile Suit Gundam, “Re-Entry to Earth,” marks a pivotal moment in the series. Originally airing on May 5, 1979, in Japan and July 27, 2001, in North America, this episode sets the stage for the intense battles to come.
A Glimpse of Humanity
As the White Base approaches Earth’s atmosphere, the crew and evacuees prepare for re-entry. Amidst the tension, Amuro Ray takes a moment to fix a remote control toy car for a young boy, whose grandfather shares stories of his life on Earth. This poignant scene highlights the human cost of war and the longing for a sense of normalcy.
The Plan of Attack
Meanwhile, Char Aznable and his Musai-class cruiser plot to capture or disable the White Base and the Gundam. With only a two-minute window of opportunity, Char’s plan is risky, but he sees it as the perfect moment to strike. As the White Base follows Lt. Reed’s capsule, Bright Noa orders the base into high alert, preparing for both re-entry and a potential attack.
The Battle Begins
Amuro launches in the RX-78-2 Gundam, with a strict four-minute time limit before the Gundam will burn up in re-entry. As Char and his Zaku IIs approach, Amuro faces off against the Red Comet, struggling to keep up with his opponent’s speed. The battle rages on, with the White Base’s crew struggling to defend against the Zaku attacks.
A Turning Point
Just as it seems Char has the upper hand, Amuro manages to take out his weapon, forcing him to retreat. The Gundam Hammer flies in, taking the blast meant for Amuro, and he grabs it to prepare for the next battle. This intense sequence marks a turning point in the series, as Amuro begins to find his footing as a mobile suit pilot.
The Aftermath
As the White Base makes it through re-entry, Garma Zabi learns of Operation V and the loss of eight Zaku units. Despite Char’s failure to defeat the White Base, the battle succeeds in changing the trajectory of the ship, sending it into Zeon territory. The stage is set for the next episode, “Garma Strikes,” as the Earth Occupation Forces prepare for Char’s arrival.
Important Events and Characters
- Characters introduced: Reed, Garma Zabi, J.Q., Kohm, Crown
- Deceased: J.Q., Kohm, Crown
- Ships introduced: Gaw, Komusai, Dopp
- The White Base enters Earth’s atmosphere.
Staff Credits
- Script: Hiroyuki Hoshiyama
- Unit Director: Ryoji Fujiwara
- Animation Director: Yoshinobu Aobachi
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