The suspenseful finale of the highly anticipated movie ‘PSYCHO-PASS: Providence’ left fans contemplating the moral implications and the fate of our beloved protagonist, Akane. In this comprehensive breakdown, we delve into the intricacies of the film’s ending, dissecting Akane’s decisions and shedding light on the aftermath. Brace yourselves as we navigate through the two pivotal sections: the movie’s conclusion and the repercussions that followed.
(Warning: Major spoilers ahead)
Deciphering Akane’s Fate: A Criminal or a Champion?
The plot unravels as Japan finds itself immersed in a heated debate about exporting the Sybil System worldwide. The enigmatic Stronskaya Papers, which predict the functionality of Sybil in different regions, become the subject of interest for both the Japanese government and the rebel faction known as the Peacebreakers. Enter Akane and her loyal Unit, stepping into the fray.
Through numerous challenges and devastating losses, Akane and her allies eventually reach the rebel stronghold in the Kuril Islands. There, she confronts Tsugumasa Tonami, the rebel leader who is ultimately slain by Kogami. It is revealed that Tonami was merely a spokesperson for The General, an AI entity.
Despite the Sybil System striking a pact with The General, Akane vehemently opposes this alliance. Tonami argues that merging with Sybil is the only way forward, but Akane adamantly fights for her beliefs, risking being labeled a traitor. She stands firm against the notion of the Sybil System becoming the sole global authority, where national laws would be abolished, and individual will would be subservient to Sybil.
Believing in the inherent goodness and potential for collective evolution in humanity, Akane vehemently objects. Tonami asserts that people, in general, do not share her conviction and would willingly relinquish their responsibility and freedom. Akane refuses to accept this, prompting her decision to oppose Sybil.
In a shocking turn of events, after Tonami’s defeat, Akane announces her resignation from the Public Safety Bureau. As she is promoted, she boldly takes out a gun and shoots Director Kasei in front of a stunned crowd and television cameras. The audacity of her action leaves everyone astounded.
Mika, in a swift response, steps in front of Akane and scans her with the Dominator. However, since Akane is criminally asymptomatic, the Dominator fails to activate. This incident sparks a nationwide debate, questioning whether Akane has crossed into criminal territory and scrutinizing the functionality of the Sybil System itself.
While Akane undeniably committed a crime witnessed by the entire nation, the Sybil System, designed to judge individuals based on their Hues and Crime Coefficients, does not consider her a criminal. This echoes similar instances involving Makishima, Kamui, and Tonami, each embodying distinctive concepts. Thus, the System’s flawed judgment is exposed, with Akane inadvertently highlighting the necessity of preserving national laws.
Did Akane truly become a criminal? The answer is nuanced. Akane knew that Kasei was an artificial embodiment of the Sybil System, eliminating any human life aspect from the equation. Additionally, Kasei had previously “died” multiple times, always in secret, making her survival plausible. However, the public remained unaware of these details. In a letter sent to Kogami, Akane clarifies her stance: she supports the System but firmly believes in the importance of people and laws.
She elucidates that the past saw debates on the nature of crimes, justice, and appropriate punishments. These deliberations gave rise to laws, facilitating societal progress. If these laws were to vanish, a vital aspect of humanity would be lost, rendering it futile for all. Akane firmly maintains that national laws serve the interests of both the people and the System. For her, the System can only evolve within a society that evolves alongside it. Engaging in ongoing discussions about the definition of crime is an avenue for collective growth.
Thus, her audacious act of killing Kasei becomes a catalyst for change. Although the Sybil System does not consider Akane a criminal due to her asymptomatic nature, she aims to expose its fundamental flaw. By setting an example, she endeavors to reveal the perils of a society where the System’s unchallenged criteria dictate all aspects of life.
To Keep or Discard the National Laws? Fans familiar with the series comprehend Akane’s intricate relationship with the System. They share a mutual respect, yet a complexity lies beneath the surface. The System understands and respects Akane’s decision, resulting in her imprisonment. However, since she was never truly a criminal, Akane is eventually released (more details below). Thus, ‘PSYCHO-PASS: Providence’ intends to teach us that life is not merely black and white; we, as people, are as multifaceted as our actions and their implications.
The aftermath of the movie’s climax and the subsequent discussions will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of future events. Stay tuned as we explore the consequences that await Akane and the ever-evolving world of ‘PSYCHO-PASS.’
