6.825 minSeason 2 • Episode 40
LatestHaschwalt suddenly attacks Uryu to pass judgement. The ensuing explosion and smoke draw Ichigo to the scene where he and Uryu are reunited.
For as long as he can remember, Ichigo Kurosaki has been able to see ghosts. But when he meets Rukia, a Soul Reaper who battles evil spirits known as Hollows, he finds his life is changed forever. Now, with a newfound wealth of spiritual energy, Ichigo discovers his true calling: to protect the living and the dead from evil.
Score
Shiro Sagisu's orchestral bangers still live rent-free in heads.
Production
Tite Kubo's drip-heavy character designs invented anime fashion.
Direction
Fights hit different when every sword has a name and backstory.
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Bleach helped define the 'Big Three' era of 2000s shounen alongside Naruto and One Piece, introducing Western audiences to shinigami mythology through a punk-rock lens.
Tite Kubo originally wanted to name the series 'Black' for Ichigo's hair, then 'White' for contrast, before his editor suggested 'Bleach' as a nod to cleaning/soul purification.
JP
