On Friday, October 4, 2024, the highly anticipated Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War Part 3 unveiled the non-credit version of its opening theme, Kotoba ni Sezu tomo (Even Without Words) performed by SIX LOUNGE, just one day before the premiere of the sequel. The theme song has mesmerized fans to the extent that many are dubbing it the “Opening Theme Song of the Year.”
This opening theme showcases iconic battles and memorable moments expected in Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War Part 3. As with previous themes, Kotoba ni Sezu tomo includes numerous scenes that might reveal key plot points to the audience. However, the combination of lyrics and stunning visuals has left fans immensely excited.
Disclaimer: This article contains major spoilers for Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War Part 3.
Delving into Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War Part 3 Opening Theme, Kotoba ni Sezu tomo
Although Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War officially premieres on October 5, 2024, the anime’s team released the creditless version of the opening theme song, Kotoba ni Sezu tomo (Even Without Words) by SIX LOUNGE, on Aniplex’s official YouTube channel on Friday, October 4, 2024.
With breathtaking visuals and superb direction, this opening theme revives iconic panels from Tite Kubo’s manga. The opening starts with a cosmic hand representing Yhwach, engulfing the light symbolizing the Soul King.
The visuals then transition to Yhwach seated on his throne, showcasing his Almighty eyes. Following that, the clip focuses on Ichigo Kurosaki, whose eyes radiate determination. As the lyrics unfold, viewers are introduced to Ichibei Hyosube, Jushiro Ukitake, Shunsui Kyoraku, and other pivotal characters.
The opening theme for Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War Part 3 reveals a crucial moment for Jushiro Ukitake, as he calls upon the deity, Mimihagi. Additionally, the footage depicts the confrontation between Bazz-B and Jugram Hashchwalth, which is expected to be a significant plot point in the upcoming part.
However, the most thrilling aspect is the appearance of Aizen Sosuke in Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War Part 3‘s opening theme. From the visuals, it seems he’s executing his Kurohitsugi without the accompanying chant. Alongside him, Yhwach’s Schutzstaffel prepares for battle.
As SIX LOUNGE’s Kotoba ni Sezu Tomo builds to its catchy hook, the visuals magnificently highlight the battles set to unfold in the third installment. The opening theme practically confirms that Ichigo Kurosaki will face off against Uryu Ishida in an anime-original scene, along with confirming Grimjoww’s return to the series.
Furthermore, the clip hints at intense conflicts such as Shunsui Kyoraku vs. Lille Barro, Nanao Ise’s God Slayer scene, and the battle between Nemu and Mayuri Kurotsuchi against Pernida, among others.
Interestingly, the Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War Part 3 opening theme sees Ichigo Kurosaki utilizing Getsuga Jujisho—a technique he previously executed only once in the manga against Candice. The opening concludes with Yhwach’s cosmic hand absorbing the crystallized form of the Soul King.
From a production standpoint, the opening theme is visually stunning. Pierrot Films has skillfully blended monochrome and color elements, providing a remarkable aesthetic to the visuals. Lyrically, the song encapsulates the essence of the series while invoking nostalgia for the earlier Bleach themes.
Fan Reactions to the Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War Part 3 Opening Theme
The official opening theme of Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War Part 3 has sent the fandom into a frenzy of excitement. Many fans are dubbing Kotoba ni Sezu Tomo the “Opening Theme Song of the Year.”
This comes at a time when Fall 2024 is packed with many anime boasting impressive opening themes, including Dandadan. Despite this, fans express their overwhelming anticipation on Twitter, eagerly awaiting the show’s launch.
“Visually, the Bleach opening is a 10/10! The black & white theme is so fitting; it’s fair to say this is the opening of the year.”- A fan remarked.
“Absolute peak opening of the year! Thank you so much!”- Another fan shared their exhilaration.
“Indeed, this is a 10/10 opening. Other anime will have to fight for the No. 2 spot because this one is unbeatable!”- A fan stated.
“I thought Dandadan had effortlessly secured the title for the best opening of the Fall anime season, but this Bleach opening is something else!”- One fan enthusiastically mentioned.
Some fans also highlighted how the opening theme reveals crucial elements of Part 3.
“They really spoiled Nanao’s Zanpakuto reveal in the opening.”- A fan pointed out.
“I watched the new opening for Bleach and it was awesome, with manga-related spoilers that I can’t reveal.”- Another fan noted.
Conclusion
Undeniably, the Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War Part 3 opening theme has created a significant buzz in the anime community, with many labeling it the best opening theme song of the year. While that may be open to debate, given the numerous opening themes released this year, it’s clear that SIX LOUNGE’s track has earned the admiration of fans.
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