MF Ghost Season 2 Episode 1 Review: Kanata Follows Mentor’s Techniques to Qualify for MFG

The premiere of MF Ghost season 2, episode 1, named “The White Reaper Descends,”was broadcast in Japan on Monday, October 7, 2024. Despite competing in a sport typically ruled by affluent racers driving high-performance vehicles, Kanata has distinguished himself with remarkable driving prowess, having made a name for himself already. This episode spotlights his skills further as he implements lessons learned from his mentor, the iconic Fujiwara Takumi.

This anime is produced by Felix Films and is adapted from Shuichi Shigeno’s beloved Japanese manga series.

Disclaimer: Spoilers are included in this article.

Key Highlights

Ren with her father in MF Ghost season 2 episode 1 (Image via Felix Film)

The episode showcases Kanata as he takes on the Ashinoko GT course, notorious for its difficulty. Ren and her father watch him race, while her mother decides to stay away, feeling too nervous about Kanata’s driving. Ren suggests her father drop the formalities when addressing Kanata, but he believes that Kanata’s exceptional skill warrants great respect.

As Kanata navigates the track in his Toyota 86, kicking up dust behind him, Aiba notes that the volcanic ash from Mount Fuji is about to transform the landscape white and cause the roads to become hazardous due to slipping—this event is referred to as the Descent of the White Reaper and the Slip Trap.

Ogata notifies Kanata of a challenging area ahead, to which Kanata confidently asserts that he will adapt his driving style to meet the conditions. He skillfully maneuvers through the death zone employing the zero-control steer drift technique taught by Fujiwara Takumi.

Kanata succeeds in reaching seventh place, but as he struggles during the final uphill segment, his less powerful vehicle causes him to fall back, ultimately finishing in eighth place. By the end of the day, he finds himself in ninth overall.

Kanata in MF Ghost season 2 episode 1 (Image via Felix Film)

After the race concludes, Kanata shares that his drifting skills stem from special lessons with his mentor, who treated him like a son. Fujiwara would take Kanata to rally courses with vehicles equipped with soft suspensions, allowing him to hone his skills related to weight shifting.

Listening to Kanata’s heartfelt tribute to his mentor brings a wave of emotion to everyone present, prompting them to celebrate his MFG qualification at a local Japanese restaurant.

The following day, Ren invites Kanata to join her in Kamakura post-work, as he expresses interest in trying shirasu-don. Meanwhile, the last day of the MFG qualification sees Beckenbauer finally in action.

He races just a fraction of a second behind Koki Sawatari’s record, maintaining a steady pace until the crucial final stretch where he accelerates to clinch first place. Sawatari, observing the race, remains calm, confident that Kanata poses a greater threat, even though Kanata holds the tenth spot at this moment.

Review of MF Ghost Season 2 Episode 1

Kanata's Toyota 86 in MF Ghost season 2 episode 1 (Image via Felix Film) — Kanata’s Toyota 86 in MF Ghost season 2 episode 1 (Image via Felix Film)

The visual quality in MF Ghost season 2 episode 1 remains striking as expected. However, the racing sequences still fall short, appearing overly smooth and lacking the intensity one might anticipate. Fortunately, the accompanying soundtrack compensates for this drawback. Another element that may deter some viewers is the excessive fan service, particularly the overemphasis on the MFG Angels.

Apart from the intricate nuances appreciated by car enthusiasts, this episode of MF Ghost goes deeper into the thoughts and strategies of several racers involved. It offers insights into their individual stakes in the race and their views on Kanata, the rising star ready to shake up the competition.

This approach allows the audience to grasp the varying levels of commitment among racers. For example, Fujin Ishigami feels pressured to prove his worth, facing the challenges that come with aging, determined not to be overshadowed by younger competitors. In contrast, Sawatari primarily races for financial gain.

Final Reflections

Sawatari in MF Ghost season 2 episode 1 (Image via Felix Film)

Ultimately, MF Ghost season 2 episode 1 successfully rekindles excitement among viewers for the racing narrative. The pacing is well-executed; without dwelling solely on Kanata’s journey, the episode dedicates ample time to both him and other characters like Ishigami and Beckenbauer.

This balanced blend of technical racing elements alongside the emotional narratives enriches the plot, avoiding any semblance of monotony. Consequently, fans are eager for the upcoming Lake race in the next episode.

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