Mob Psycho 100 - Season 3, Episodes 1-2 [Review]
By: Mithrandiel
There be spoilers below! You've been warned!
Jam packed alongside some of the most anticipated series in recent memory (Chainsaw Man, the return of Bleach, new Spy X Family, to name a few), Mob Psycho 100 makes a triumphant return nearly 3 and a half years after the finale of Season 2.
We are introduced to a Mob still trying to figure out his place in the world, as the premiere episode centers largely on a career survey that has the young man anxious about what his future might look like.
Reigen, of course, thinks that Mob would be a great fit running the business one day, but while Mob isn't sure what his future holds, he makes it clear that continuing to exorcise demons and spirits is not what he wants to do for the rest of his life.
In typical fashion, Reigen acknowledges Mob's decision and empowers him to be an independent kid. Commentary on just how amazing Reigen is has been visited again and again since the series premiere in 2016, but I cannot state just how much I respect and admire this man! So often, the mentors in anime are pushing emotionally immature and vulnerable youths into harrowing situations without taking responsibility (cough cough - Evangelion - cough cough).
Instead, Reigen empathizes with the challenges Mob faces, not only being the world's most powerful psychic, but having to navigate the challenges of middle school at the same time. It's a breath of fresh air, and makes him a continuously endearing character as we enter the 3rd season.
As the episode progresses, the phantom of an ill-defined life literally haunts Mob, Serizawa and Reigen as they visit a client who at first appears to be somewhat of a shut-in. The possessed man laments his lot in life, making excuses as he's surrounded by piles of junk that supposedly "protect him from the world". Shaken at this potential glimpse into the future, both Serizawa and Mob resolve to better themselves and commit to personal development and growth in the months to come.
The series continues with a cultural fair, in which Mob is assigned a task to design a haunted mansion. His fellow students are looking to take the easy way out, a few sheets and scant decoration to call it a day. Mob, on the other hand, is preoccupied with how best to meet the challenge at hand, but he's not sure how.
In the meantime, an eccentric young demon hunter named Amakusa Haruaki rolls into town, proclaiming that the 100 yokai are close to awakening, and that he requires Reigen and his team's assistance in dispatching the monsters. Initially thinking the "demon hunter" is a crock, Reigen nearly laughs him out of his office, until a $10,000 payment changes his tune.
As Mob, Serizawa and Reigen accompany the demon hunter, Mob is inspired by his frequent battles against fiendish looking monsters. After dispatching the enemies, Reigen recalls that Mob was going to ask him something earlier in the day, but Mob confidently responds that he figured it out, leaving Reigen in a stupor of pride and surprise for his young employee.
Complementing the dynamics of season 3 is Serizawa, who takes a notable place in both of the opening episodes. The reformed former henchman of the Claw, Serizawa is a great addition to the roster of talent under Reigen's employ. His commentary on Reigen's "tactics" and respect for his employer is good for a chuckle, and of course he has the skills to back up the work he does for Reigen's agency.
The animation has not lost any of its charm, with vibrant colors and unique designs of enemies and allies alike.
Near the top of the list of notable strengths, however, is the opening theme. An absolute banger from Mob Choir yet again, it's certainly going on the "unskippable" list:
Overall, with Mob on a promising path of self development, the series continues to win me over. I'm excited to see the challenges that await Mob ahead! Check back weekly for my thoughts on the episodes as they air!
