Is It Necessary to Watch Filler Episodes of Bleach?
Are you a Bleach fan considering whether to delve into the filler episodes? The decision to watch them can revolve around your preference for additional details and side stories or your desire to stick to the original storyline. To help you make an informed decision, we'll explore the significance of filler episodes in the context of the show's narrative and character development.
Do I Need to Watch Filler Episodes?
Some viewers argue that filler episodes are unnecessary, as they do not contribute to the core plot. However, there are differing opinions, and many fans find value in these episodes for a range of reasons. Here are both perspectives:
No, It's Not Necessarily Required
Some fans and experts believe that filler episodes are not essential to the storyline. For instance, the Bount Arc is considered by many to be a filler that, while potentially enjoyable, detracts from the main narrative due to its focus on an irrelevant concept. Jirō Hayashi, co-director of Bleach: The Silenced Episodes, stated, 'Some fillers don’t have much to do with the original storyline and only serve to buy time for the main plot.ipayable'
Similarly, Darren McCoy, a prominent anime blogger, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that filler episodes are 'fluff to buy time for the story and serve no purpose to the show.' McCoy further adds, 'If you just want to watch some fun, different side stories, then by all means, enjoy them. But they are not a necessity.'
Yes, You Should Give Filler Episodes a Try
Other fans and experts argue that filler episodes are worth watching. They contain important details about characters and future events that are not present in the main episodes. For example, the Zanpakuto Untold Tales Arc offers valuable insights into the lore and introduces unique aspects of the characters' inner swords.
Additionally, certain fillers, such as the Reigai Arc, provide memorable 'what if' scenarios and showcase the full capabilities of the Bleach worlds. Injector, a popular YouTube channel, highlights, 'Many of the questions about the Zanpakuto were answered in this arc while also introducing one of the most broken Zanpakuto in the name of Muramasa.'
Some feel that giving filler episodes a try is worthwhile because a viewer might discover they are more enjoyable than expected, even if they aren't necessary to the overall story. As Lewis Gerber, a blogger, wisely advises, 'I recommend you not to skip fillers before at least giving them a try, because you would not know if you might enjoy some.'
Conclusion
The decision to watch filler episodes of Bleach ultimately comes down to your personal preference. If you're looking for deeper insights into the lore or additional side stories, fillers can be a valuable supplement. However, if you prefer to follow the official storyline, they can be safely skipped. Regardless of your choice, the enjoyment of anime should always be your primary goal.