: The use of strategic flashbacks—like the meeting between the Red Scabbards and Yasuie—strengthens the emotional impact of his final moments. The Dark Truth of SMILE

: Incredible storyboarding, powerful voice acting (especially the laughter), and a meaningful character send-off.

The episode centers on the execution of , whose death serves as a strategic and symbolic pivot for the rebellion.

: Reviewers on IMDb and Reddit describe this revelation as one of the darkest forms of oppression in the series. The "SMILE" victims are stripped of their ability to express any emotion other than joy, forcing them to laugh even while witnessing the brutal murder of their benefactor.

Directed by Utaka Nakushima, the episode is praised for its artistic choices that enhance the tragic atmosphere.

: Reviewers on Anime Reviews highlight Yasuie's brilliance in using his final moments to discredit Orochi. By claiming the secret revolution flyer was just a prank, he effectively saves the Kozuki clan's plans and gives the rebels a second chance to regroup.