My Hero Academia has consistently gripped fans with its intricate storytelling, well-developed characters, and powerful emotional arcs.
As the anime entered its highly anticipated seventh season, fans were eager to see how the story would unfold, especially as the stakes continued to rise in the final war arc.
With the constant barrage of intense action scenes, it might have been easy to overlook some of the smaller, more personal character moments that truly make this show shine.
However, episode 16 of My Hero Academia season 7 managed to deliver one of these moments in a way that left fans emotional and overwhelmed with nostalgia.
This episode marked the return of Gentle Criminal, a character whose journey and evolution have resonated deeply with the fanbase.
Initially introduced as a minor antagonist, Gentle Criminal’s transformation into a more sympathetic, heroic figure has been one of the most surprising and heartfelt arcs in the series.
His appearance in this latest season, particularly during a critical juncture in the war, is not only unexpected but also poignant.
Studio Bones, the animation studio responsible for bringing My Hero Academia to life, skillfully handled Gentle’s return, making it a moment that fans would not soon forget.
The Story Behind Gentle Criminal: From Antagonist to Fan-Favorite
When Gentle Criminal was first introduced, he was hardly seen as a major threat.
In fact, compared to the likes of Shigaraki, Dabi, and All For One, Gentle appeared more like a comedic side character a villain whose aspirations were far smaller and whose crimes were more of a nuisance than a true danger.
With his Quirk, “Elasticity,” which allowed him to make any object, including the air, bouncy and elastic, Gentle didn’t possess the overwhelming power of other villains.
Instead, he seemed more interested in achieving fame and recognition through the internet, posting videos of his minor exploits alongside his devoted partner, La Brava.
At the time, Gentle Criminal’s story was unique in the way it portrayed a man who, despite his criminal activities, wasn’t driven by malice or destruction.
His character was more complex than the typical villain archetype, as his motivations stemmed from feelings of rejection and failure.
Gentle had once dreamed of becoming a hero, but a series of unfortunate events, combined with society’s judgment, led him down a path of villainy.
His crimes, while technically illegal, were far from evil in nature, and throughout his time as an antagonist, fans could sense the sadness and regret that lingered beneath his seemingly confident exterior.
This depth to Gentle’s character allowed him to stand out in the My Hero Academia universe. Even though he was a minor villain, he quickly became a fan favorite.
His relationship with La Brava, who shared a similarly tragic past of societal rejection, only added to the emotional weight of his character.
Together, they formed a bond that was based on mutual support and understanding, and while their actions weren’t always commendable, their motives were relatable to many viewers.
Gentle’s Redemption: A Battle With Deku and a Sight of Hope
Gentle Criminal’s redemption arc truly began during his confrontation with Deku. This battle, which occurred in a previous season, was a turning point for both characters.
While Gentle initially viewed Deku as just another obstacle in his quest for fame, their fight revealed a shared understanding between the two.
Deku, who had spent most of his life striving to prove himself in a world that often doubted him, recognized a similar struggle in Gentle.
Rather than treating Gentle as a simple villain to be defeated, Deku saw him as a person with dreams and regrets, someone who had been pushed into villainy not because of a desire for power, but because he felt like he had no other choice.
This empathy from Deku was what ultimately led to Gentle’s redemption. By the end of their battle, Gentle Criminal was no longer just a petty criminal seeking attention he was a man who had been given a second chance to find a new path.
This confrontation also showcased how Gentle’s Quirk, which initially seemed like a minor ability, could be used in creative and powerful ways.
His “Elasticity” allowed him to manipulate the environment to his advantage, making objects bounce unpredictably or even creating air cushions to soften impacts.
While Gentle’s Quirk wasn’t the most destructive, it was versatile and well-suited to his unique style of fighting.
Season 7: The Heroic Return of Gentle Criminal
With this backstory in mind, the significance of Gentle Criminal’s return in season 7 becomes even clearer.
Episode 16 begins with the U.A. High School, which has been transformed into a fortress to protect the heroes and civilians, under threat.
Skeptic, a villain aligned with Shigaraki, manages to hack into the U.A. system, causing the entire structure to begin plummeting toward the ground.
TEARSSSS😭MIGHT U OST FOR GENTLE CRIMINAL SCENE😭🔥🔥MHA IS SOOO PEAK😭#MyHeroAcademia #heroaca_apic.twitter.com/A9IZpK14nZ
— VishalSid (@VishalSid_1) September 7, 2024
The heroes, already engaged in a fierce battle against Shigaraki and his allies, are unable to prevent the fortress’s fall, and it seems like disaster is imminent.
In this moment of crisis, Gentle Criminal steps in to save the day. Using his Quirk, he manages to keep the U.A. fortress suspended in the air, preventing it from crashing to the ground and saving countless lives in the process.
This act of heroism is not only crucial to the ongoing battle, but it also serves as a powerful moment of redemption for Gentle.
After years of feeling like a failure and resorting to petty crimes, he is finally able to use his abilities for good.
What makes this scene even more emotional is the fact that Gentle isn’t alone. La Brava, his ever-loyal partner, is also present, working as a hacker to counter Skeptic’s efforts and stop the fortress from falling.
Together, these two characters, who were once on the fringes of villainy, are now fighting alongside the heroes, using their unique skills to protect others.
Their return not only highlights their growth as characters but also emphasizes the theme of redemption that runs throughout My Hero Academia.
The Emotional Impact: Fans React to Gentle’s Heroic Moment
As expected, the return of Gentle Criminal and La Brava has sparked a wave of reactions from fans.
Social media platforms have been flooded with comments from viewers who were moved by the duo’s return, with many praising Studio Bones for the way they handled this pivotal moment.
The animation during Gentle’s heroic act was particularly praised, with fans noting the fluidity and intensity of the scene.
One fan wrote, “I almost cried when I saw Gentle holding up the U.A. fortress. His entire journey, all of his failures and regrets, led to this one moment where he finally got to be the hero he always wanted to be.”
This sentiment is one that has been echoed by many viewers, who were touched by the emotional weight of Gentle’s actions.
Another fan expressed their excitement by saying, “GENTLE, MY GOAT!!! He finally gets the chance to be the hero he always wanted to be!”
This enthusiasm for Gentle’s return reflects just how much the character has resonated with fans.
i almost cried man, what a scene!
— Axell Austria (@AxellAustria) September 7, 2024
Despite being a minor antagonist, Gentle’s journey from a misunderstood villain to a hero in his own right has left a lasting impact on the My Hero Academia community.
The inclusion of flashbacks during this episode also added to the emotional depth of the scene.
These flashbacks showed moments from Gentle’s past, highlighting his struggles and failures, but also his desire to make a difference.
By weaving these flashbacks into the present moment, Studio Bones was able to emphasize just how far Gentle had come and how much this heroic act meant to him.
It was a culmination of all the pain and rejection he had experienced, finally giving him the chance to prove himself as a hero.
Role of La Brava: A Partnership Built on Loyalty and Love
While Gentle Criminal’s actions in season 7 are undoubtedly heroic, it’s important not to overlook the role that La Brava plays in this moment.
La Brava, whose real name is Manami Aiba, has always been fiercely loyal to Gentle, and their relationship has been one of the most unique and touching aspects of their character arcs.
Despite her own troubled past, La Brava found solace and purpose in supporting Gentle, and her Quirk, “Love,” allows her to boost his abilities when her feelings for him reach their peak.
In episode 16, La Brava’s skills as a hacker prove to be just as crucial as Gentle’s physical abilities.
While Gentle is using his Quirk to hold up the U.A. fortress, La Brava is working behind the scenes to counter Skeptic’s hacking, ensuring that the fortress remains stable.
This dynamic between the two characters Gentle handling the physical threat while La Brava tackles the digital one showcases the strength of their partnership.
Together, they are able to complement each other’s abilities and play a significant role in the battle to protect U.A.
The bond between Gentle and La Brava has always been a central part of their story, and fans have long appreciated the depth of their relationship.
Unlike many of the other villain pairs in My Hero Academia, whose bonds are often based on power or shared goals of destruction, Gentle and La Brava’s connection is rooted in love and loyalty.
They are two people who found each other in a world that had rejected them, and their partnership has allowed them to find purpose and meaning in their lives.
One fan commented on this dynamic, saying, “Gentle and La Brava’s relationship is one of the most wholesome in the series.
They don’t want to destroy the world or cause chaos they just want to find their place in it. And now, they’re finally getting their chance to be heroes together.”
This sentiment reflects the deep affection that fans have for these characters and the way their relationship adds a layer of emotional complexity to the story.
A Fitting Ending To Gentle Criminal’s Arc
As season 7 of My Hero Academia continues, it’s clear that Gentle Criminal’s redemption arc has become one of the most meaningful and emotionally resonant storylines in the series.
While he was once seen as a minor antagonist, his return in season 7 has improved him to a symbol of hope and redemption.
Studio Bones, the animation studio behind My Hero Academia, has done an exceptional job of portraying this transformation in a way that feels authentic and earned.
Gentle Criminal’s actions in episode 16 are not just about saving the day they’re about proving to himself, and to the world, that he is capable of being the hero he always aspired to be.
For fans of the series, this moment feels like a culmination of everything Gentle has been working toward since his introduction.
His failures, his regrets, and his desire to make a positive impact all converge in this one heroic act.
It’s a powerful reminder that, in the My Hero Academia world, even the most unlikely characters can rise to the occasion and prove themselves worthy of the title “hero.”
Broader Themes of Redemption and Growth
The theme of redemption is one that has been present throughout My Hero Academia, and Gentle Criminal’s arc is perhaps one of the most poignant examples of this.
In a world where many of the villains have chosen paths of destruction and chaos, Gentle’s decision to seek a better life sets him apart.
He’s not motivated by power or revenge his goal is simply to make a difference and to prove that he’s more than the sum of his past mistakes.
Gentle’s journey also highlights a broader theme within the series: the idea that society often plays a role in pushing individuals toward villainy.
Characters like Shigaraki, Dabi, and Himiko Toga have all been shaped by the harsh realities of their environments, leading them to choose darker paths.
In contrast, Gentle Criminal represents a different kind of story one where a person who has been rejected by society still strives to find a positive way forward.
For fans, this aspect of Gentle’s character is particularly resonant. In many ways, his story serves as a commentary on the importance of empathy and understanding.
Rather than condemning people for their mistakes, My Hero Academia emphasizes the possibility of growth and change.
Gentle’s transformation from a villain into a hero is a testament to this message, showing that redemption is always possible, no matter how far someone has fallen.
This theme is also reinforced by the relationship between Gentle and La Brava.
Both characters have experienced rejection and hardship, but instead of succumbing to bitterness or hatred, they’ve found solace in each other.
Their bond, built on love and loyalty, has given them the strength to overcome their pasts and seek a better future.
In a series filled with complex and often tragic relationships, Gentle and La Brava’s partnership stands out as a beacon of hope and resilience.
Fans Celebrate Gentle Criminal’s Growth
The response from fans to Gentle Criminal’s return in season 7 has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing their admiration for how the character has been handled.
Social media has been buzzing with posts about Gentle’s heroic moment, and it’s clear that his redemption arc has struck a chord with viewers.
One fan wrote, “Gentle’s redemption is one of the best in the series. He went from being a minor villain to one of the most inspiring characters. This is what MY Hero Academia Is All about Showing that anyone can be a hero, no matter their past”.
Another fan commented, “I didn’t expect to get so emotional over Gentle’s return, but here we are. Studio Bones really nailed the animation and the emotional weight of the scene. Gentle is finally getting the recognition he deserves.”
These reactions speak to the impact that Gentle’s story has had on the My Hero Academia fandom.
Despite his initial role as a relatively minor character, Gentle has become a symbol of the series’ core message: that anyone, regardless of their background or mistakes, can rise to the challenge and become a hero.
It’s a message that resonates not just within the context of the show, but also in the real world, where many people can relate to the idea of overcoming adversity and striving to make a positive impact.
Studio Bones’ Masterful Execution
A large part of what makes Gentle Criminal’s return so powerful is the way Studio Bones has brought it to life.
The animation in episode 16 is nothing short of breathtaking, with fluid motion, dynamic camera angles, and a keen attention to detail that enhances the emotional weight of the scene.
From the way Gentle uses his Quirk to hold up the U.A. fortress to the expressions on the characters’ faces, every moment is crafted with care and precision.
The use of flashbacks during this episode is another element that adds depth to the scene.
By showing glance of Gentle’s past, Studio Bones is able to remind viewers of the hardships he has faced and the regrets that have shaped him.
These flashbacks are woven seamlessly into the present-day action, creating a sense of continuity and emotional resonance that improves the entire episode.
In particular, the moment where Gentle reflects on his past failures and the impact that Deku had on him is a highlight of the episode.
This internal monologue, paired with the flashbacks, gives viewers a deeper understanding of Gentle’s motivations and the significance of his heroic act.
It’s a powerful reminder that, even in the heat of battle, My Hero Academia never loses sight of its characters’ emotional journeys.
What’s Next for Gentle Criminal?
While Gentle Criminal’s return in season 7 is a significant moment, it also raises questions about what the future holds for the character.
Now that he has proven himself as a hero, will Gentle continue to fight alongside the heroes in the ongoing war against Shigaraki and his forces?
Or will he choose to step back, having fulfilled his personal goal of redemption? One possibility is that Gentle could become a key ally in the final stages of the war.
His Quirk, while not as flashy or destructive as some of the other characters’, has proven to be incredibly versatile and useful in critical moments.
His ability to manipulate the environment could be a valuable asset in the battles to come, and his newfound sense of purpose could drive him to continue fighting for the greater good.
At the same time, Gentle’s arc may also come to a natural ending with his heroic act in episode 16.
Having finally achieved the recognition and redemption he has long sought, Gentle may choose to retire from the world of heroes and villains, content with the knowledge that he has made a difference.
This would be a fitting end to his story, allowing him to leave behind the life of crime he once pursued and embrace a more peaceful future.
Whatever the future holds for Gentle Criminal, one thing is certain: his return in season 7 has left a lasting impact on both the characters within the story and the fans who have followed his journey.
His transformation from a minor antagonist to a beloved hero is a testament to the power of redemption, and his story will undoubtedly continue to be celebrated as one of the most emotional and inspiring arcs in My Hero Academia.
A Hero’s Journey
The return of Gentle Criminal in My Hero Academia season 7 is a powerful reminder of the series’ ability to tell deeply emotional and resonant stories, even in the midst of intense action.
Gentle’s journey from a rejected would-be hero to a minor villain, and finally to a true hero, is one that has touched the hearts of many fans.
His story is one of redemption, resilience, and the power of love and loyalty, as exemplified by his relationship with La Brava.
Studio Bones has done an incredible job of bringing this story to life, with stunning animation, thoughtful character development, and attention to detail that makes Gentle’s return feel both earned and emotionally impactful.
As the series continues, fans will no doubt be eagerly watching to see what the future holds for Gentle Criminal and La Brava, but for now, this moment stands as a testament to the idea that anyone can be a hero, no matter where they come from or what mistakes they’ve made.
In the grand scheme of My Hero Academia, Gentle Criminal may not have been the most powerful or dangerous villain, but his story is a reminder that true heroism isn’t always about strength or power.
Sometimes, it’s about finding the courage to rise above your past and make a difference in the world, no matter how small or insignificant that difference may seem. And for that, Gentle Criminal will always be remembered as one of the series’ most inspiring characters.
