Series & First Appearance
Bai Ji-Shin Chang, often referred to simply as Mr. Chang, hails from the anime and manga series "Black Lagoon," created by Rei Hiroe. He made his debut in Episode 11 of the anime adaptation. The series was animated by Madhouse and first aired in 2006.
Profile at a Glance
Mr. Chang appears to be in his late thirties to early forties, and he serves as a supporting antagonist within the series. He is the boss of a specific branch of the Triads based in Thailand and is known for his cooperative approach to crime, advocating for joint ventures among criminal factions. His signature weaponry includes the Beretta 76 and AMT Hardballer, which he wields with an impressive proficiency reminiscent of "gun fu."
Personality & Motivations
Chang is characterized by his calm demeanor, strategic thinking, and a code of honor that sets him apart from many other criminal figures. Unlike typical mob bosses, he emphasizes cooperation and mutual benefit, aiming for growth and stability in his operations. This cooperative stance does not diminish his intimidating presence but enhances it, allowing him to command respect even from formidable figures like Revy, who refers to him as "Sir." His motivation lies not solely in power but in achieving a lasting legacy within the criminal underworld that is based on respect and alliance.
Abilities / Powers
Mr. Chang’s notable skills are rooted in his extraordinary combat proficiency. He is an exceptionally skilled marksman, capable of dual-wielding firearms with fluidity and accuracy that defines his unique "gun fu" fighting style. While his weapon handling surpasses even that of Revy, he possesses not just technical skill but also the strategic insight to utilize the environment to his advantage. Despite his prowess, Chang’s reliance on dual firearms means that he lacks the diverse combat skills exhibited by other characters, integrating primarily into gunfights. Throughout Black Lagoon, he exhibits a level of mastery that implies he may have once trained Revy, as acknowledged in her admission of not being on his level.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Chang appears primarily in the "Lagoon Company" arc. His introduction shows him as a well-to-do businessman with a malignant edge, guiding Revy and her companions through the treacherous waters of the criminal underworld. His strategic encounter with Revy, where he showcases his skills and earns her respect, marks a pivotal turning point for her character. Revy’s acknowledgment of Chang’s superior skills and demeanor highlights her growth as a character who learns to appreciate the nuanced shades of morality within criminality.
Notable Relationships
Chang’s most defining relationship is with Revy, the series’ main protagonist. Their dynamic is complex; while he respects her abilities, he is also one of the few people who can keep her in check. His polite interactions demonstrate a contrasting world view to Revy’s more aggressive and chaotic antics. Additionally, he navigates relationships with other members of the Triad and various criminal enterprises, establishing himself as a figure of unity rather than division within the darker elements of society.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of the most memorable scenes featuring Chang occurs in Episode 11, where he showcases his combat prowess during an intense standoff, impressing not only the audience but also Revy. As she admits her inferiority in gunplay to him, this moment cements his status as a formidable character. His quote, often delivered with a cool and intimidating calm, “The world is nothing but a big game,” encapsulates his philosophical approach to crime and combat. This statement resonates throughout the series, positioning Chang as a philosophically inclined character within the chaotic landscape of Black Lagoon.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Chang is designed to reflect the charismatic yet cool characters frequently depicted by actor Chow Yun Fat in John Woo films. Comparisons draw parallels between Chang and characters like Mark Gor from A Better Tomorrow, showcasing the influence of cinematic tropes on his persona. In terms of popularity, he has garnered over 272 member favorites, indicating a strong fan base. In the English dub, Chang is voiced by Bradley S. Ball, while the Japanese version features the talents of Hiroaki Hirata, known for bringing warmth and depth to the character.
The nuanced portrayal of Bai Ji-Shin Chang contributes richly to the fabric of Black Lagoon, allowing fans to engage more deeply with the themes of morality, respect, and the complexities of the criminal underworld.
