My Hero Academia has introduced a diverse array of villains, each with their own potential for redemption. Among them, Danjuro Tobita, known as Gentle Criminal, stands out not only for his stronger moral compass compared to his peers but also for his unique Quirk and mastery over it.
Gentle Criminal wields the Quirk of Elasticity, which allows him to transform anything he touches into an elastic material. While this ability may initially appear simplistic, it proves to be highly versatile and impactful in various situations throughout the series. His desire for heroism, coupled with personal mistakes, adds complexity to his character, making him a compelling figure within the narrative.
Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers. The views expressed here are those of the author.
Why Gentle Criminal Exhibits Greater Pro Hero Potential Than Other My Hero Academia Villains
The narrative arc of Gentle Criminal reinforces his aspirations of becoming a hero, culminating in his transformation after the time-skip. While many fans celebrate this achievement, some underestimate his viability as a Pro Hero, particularly in comparison to formidable antagonists like Tomura Shigaraki.
His Elasticity Quirk not only grants him inventive combat tactics, as shown during his encounters with Izuku “Deku”Midoriya, but also illustrates his capacity to manipulate heavy objects by making them elastic. This versatility expands his potential for positive contributions, especially in rescue operations.
A notable moment showcasing his capabilities is when he kept UA Academy suspended in mid-air, preventing its collapse during Deku’s struggle with Shigaraki. This instance strongly symbolizes Gentle’s evolution towards heroism.
The Partnership with La Brava
An integral part of Gentle’s hero potential lies in his partnership with Manami Aiba, better known as La Brava. As his supportive companion and eventual spouse, La Brava employs her exceptional hacking skills and tech expertise, providing Gentle with a unique advantage in the ongoing struggles faced by the protagonists.
Additionally, her Love Quirk enhances Gentle’s power significantly when he is in her presence. This upgrade in strength is convincingly demonstrated during his confrontations with Deku and the pivotal moments in the final series arc, showcasing how their collaboration amplifies his effectiveness.
Concluding Insights
Ultimately, Gentle Criminal has emerged as one of the most cherished antagonists in My Hero Academia, epitomizing the theme of redemption for those who have made serious missteps in life. With his remarkable abilities and the resources available through his partnership with La Brava, there is immense potential for him to realize his ambition of becoming a distinguished hero.