Series & First Appearance
Bulat is a character from the anime and manga series Akame ga Kill!, created by Takahiro, with illustrations by Tetsuya Tashiro. He made his first appearance in Chapter 1 of the manga and Episode 1 of the anime adaptation, which aired in 2014.
Profile at a Glance
Bulat is a member of the revolutionary group known as Night Raid and is portrayed as a high-ranking former officer of the Imperial Military. In his mid-20s, he stands at 185 cm (6’1") tall and possesses a Teigu known as Demon Armor: Incursio, which allows him to enhance his physical abilities and blend into his surroundings. Initially loyal to the Empire, he defected due to its corrupt practices.
Personality & Motivations
Bulat exhibits a strong sense of justice and loyalty to his comrades in Night Raid. He is characterized by his charismatic and easy-going demeanor, often displaying a carefree attitude in combat. Despite his light-heartedness, Bulat harbors a deep disdain for corruption within the Empire. His motivations revolve around fighting for a better world and protecting his friends. Notably, he has a penchant for eccentric humor, including a fondness for flirting with both male and female characters. Catchphrases include lines that emphasize his loyalty and discipline, often referring to the importance of trust among teammates.
Abilities / Powers
Bulat is highly skilled in hand-to-hand combat, employing his enhanced strength thanks to his Teigu. The Demon Armor: Incursio grants him the capability to wear an indestructible armor that amplifies his physical prowess and grants him the ability to camouflage. This makes him particularly effective in stealthy operations. However, the usage of Incursio has limits; prolonged use can drain Bulat’s stamina. Throughout the series, his skills are highlighted in significant battles, showcasing his tactical intelligence and combat prowess.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Bulat’s journey begins as a loyal soldier within the Imperial Army. After becoming disillusioned with the Empire due to the unjust treatment of his superior, who was framed for treason, he decides to join Night Raid. His notable story arcs include forming a brotherly bond with Tatsumi, a rookie member of Night Raid, whom he mentors. Bulat’s most pivotal moment comes during a battle against his former boss, where he ultimately sacrifices himself to protect his allies. His death deeply impacts the Night Raid team, particularly Tatsumi, who inherits Incursio as a legacy of their friendship.
Notable Relationships
Bulat’s most significant relationships include his camaraderie with Tatsumi, where he acts as both mentor and brother figure. The bond they share is crucial to Tatsumi’s development as a fighter. He also shares a close friendship with Esdeath, showcasing a complex dynamic between former military comrades now on opposite sides. His loyalty extends to other Night Raid members, demonstrating his commitment to their cause.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Bulat’s memorable moments occurs during his battle against Kyouma in Episode 18, where he delivers a heartfelt speech on the importance of facing one’s fears and standing resilient against adversity. A powerful line from him encapsulates his philosophy: “Betraying those you trust is the worst form of cowardice.” This sentiment resonates with fans, emphasizing the core themes of loyalty and sacrifice present in the series.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Bulat’s character design, reflecting a blend of strength and charm, was praised among fans, contributing to his popularity, as evidenced by his ranking in member favorites on Wikia with over 1,200 fans. He is voiced by Nobuhiko Okamoto in the Japanese version and by Chris George in the English dub, both of whom effectively capture his energetic and charismatic personality. In various popularity polls, Bulat consistently ranks high among fans, reflecting his compelling character arc and design.
Bulat’s legacy in Akame ga Kill! continues to influence narrative directions well past his departure, symbolizing the struggle against corruption and the importance of friendship in an unforgiving world. His story not only enhances the themes of revolution and change central to the series but also provides a poignant look at the sacrifices necessary for the greater good.
