An official interview with Masaki Hiramatsu, the series composer for the third cour of the final arc of the TV anime 'BLEACH: Thousand-Year Blood War - Conflict Arc,' has been released.

——What is the overall position of "Conflict Arc" in the series?

Hiramatsu:
It represents the 'Ten (meaning turn)' in the four-part structure of 'Ki-sho-ten-ketsu.' This third cour resolves conflicts and reveals reasons behind previous confrontations, bringing a resolution to the "conflict". It also serves as one of the climactic moments leading to the final, fourth cour of the "Thousand-Year Blood War" series. It's a highly exciting arc as we approach the ultimate battle.

——Could you tell us if anything changed in your relationship with Tite Kubo after the first and second cours?

Hiramatsu:
During the first cour, I thought Mr. Kubo might feel a bit uneasy about me, as it was my first time participating. So, I wrote the script with the goal of earning his trust as the series composer of 'BLEACH.' Gradually, I started receiving positive feedback, such as "This line is great." These moments made me feel that perhaps I had gained his trust. Currently, I write with a sense of responsibility not to betray that trust and to meet his expectations.

——Have there been any changes in scriptwriting from the "Conflict Arc" onwards?

Hiramatsu:
In the first and second cours, there was a shared understanding to keep the comedic elements toned down, due to the nature of the storyline. However, after Episode 26 featured the "Shinigami Illustrated Picture Book," I felt that the main staff's perception shifted slightly, recognizing that "BLEACH" includes these comedic aspects. While I haven't added new scenes just to increase comedy, I've made sure not to cut the comedic moments that are occasionally mixed into serious scenes in the original manga. I've become more conscious that 'BLEACH' is also about those comedic exchanges even in the midst of serious moments.

——Was there a particular scene in "Conflict Arc" that got you excited?

Hiramatsu:
I can't share specific scenes, as they are part of future episodes, but there was a time when I wrote the script based on an image board provided by Mr. Kubo, and then had him review it. Witnessing firsthand how Mr. Kubo creates conflict between characters using lines that prevent either from looking bad was truly fascinating and thrilling. I thought it was such a shame that the image board is only used for production purposes. I really wish fans could have a chance to see it someday (laughs).

Source : ORICON NEWS