Series & First Appearance
Zero Two is a central character from the anime DARLING in the FRANXX, which premiered in January 2018. The series was created by A-1 Pictures and Trigger, with character designs by Shirow Miwa.
Profile at a Glance
Zero Two, often referred to as Code: 002, is depicted as a female character with an unknown age, though she presents herself as a youthful 17 years old. As a parasite fighting on the front lines of a dystopian society, she was initially affiliated with the Thirteenth Plantation and later with 9’s. Her signature abilities include piloting the FRANXX known as Strelizia, which, thanks to her unique biology as a human-Klaxosaur hybrid, allows her to unleash powerful transformations during battles.
Personality & Motivations
Zero Two embodies a complex fusion of allure and danger, often displaying coldness, cynicism, and emotional detachment shaped by her traumatic upbringing. Hiding her vulnerabilities behind a facade of mocking humor and nihilism, she is fiercely independent and often exhibits a rebellious spirit against authority. Despite her icy exterior, her primary motivation revolves around her desire to become human, driven by a deep-seated connection to Hiro, her partner. She believes that achieving humanity will allow her to be with Hiro forever, reflecting her yearning for love and acceptance.
Abilities / Powers
As a combatant, Zero Two possesses exceptional agility, strength, and dexterity, enhanced by her hybrid nature. Her combat style is aggressive and direct, relying on speed and ferocity to overpower her enemies. Notably, her ability to pilot Strelizia unlocks the "Iron Maiden" transformation, dramatically increasing her combat efficacy. However, her powers are tied to her emotional state and her connection with her partner, Hiro. If she pilots without a strong bond, her performance can suffer, emphasizing the necessity of teamwork in the series.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Zero Two’s character evolution is marked by several key story arcs:
- Initial Introduction: Upon meeting Hiro during a battle against a Klaxosaur, Zero Two’s invitation for him to be her partner marks a significant turning point. This pairing unlocks her potential and begins their intertwined destinies.
- Facing Trauma: Throughout their exploits, Zero Two confronts her past, including her origin as a creation of Dr. FRANXX. She grapples with her identity and the morality of her fights against Klaxosaurs.
- Sacrifice and Resolution: In the climax of the series, Zero Two chooses to sacrifice herself to save the world, ultimately realizing her love for Hiro in their final moments together. Their reincarnation at the series’ conclusion signifies an unbroken bond, suggesting the cyclical nature of love and sacrifice.
Notable Relationships
Zero Two’s relationships are pivotal to her character:
- Hiro (Code: 081): As her primary partner, their bond evolves from initial curiosity to deep love, driving the narrative forward. Hiro’s unwavering support becomes the catalyst for her character growth.
- Mitsuru: Their temporary partnership allows Zero Two to showcase different facets of her personality, as she navigates the complexities of inter-personal relationships and trust.
- Dr. FRANXX: The creator of her hybrid form, he represents the ethical dilemmas surrounding her existence and drives Zero Two to seek humanity.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of the most memorable scenes occurs in Episode 1, when Zero Two invites Hiro to be her partner during their first battle. Her fiery declaration, "You’re my darling," resonates deeply with fans, symbolizing the start of their profound connection. Another significant moment is towards the end of the series when she says, "I won’t let you go," encapsulating her fierce determination to protect her loved ones. These moments not only highlight her character’s duality but also her emotional depth.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Zero Two has gained immense popularity, ranking high in various fan polls, with 37,312 member favorites, signifying her status as an iconic character in contemporary anime. Her character design and vibrant pink hair immediately distinguish her within the series landscape. In the English dub, Zero Two is voiced by Tia Ballard, while the Japanese version features Haruka Tomatsu. The contrast in voice representation contributes to her layered personality, adding depth to her portrayal. Cultural references abound, with her character often discussed in analyses of themes like love, sacrifice, and identity within anime.
In conclusion, Zero Two’s journey—marked by trauma, rebellion, and profound love—makes her a compelling figure in anime. As themes of humanity and connection resonate throughout DARLING in the FRANXX, Zero Two remains a character that fans relate to and cherish.
