Summary

All-in is the fifth episode of the ALIEN STAGE series. It introduces Hyuna, the last of the main cast, and gives some insight into the Rebellion.

The video has a more lighthearted vibe than all the other episodes of the series, fitting the star of the video, Hyuna. It accompanies her and Mizi, after being rescued and joining the Rebels. Although the atmosphere is lighter, there are some dark undertones shown in the flashbacks of Hyuna's time in Anakt Garden and her complicated relationship with Luka. The episode ends with Hyuna and Mizi invading the Alien Stage, and Till slamming his fist as a prelude to the next matchup, Ivan and Till.

Commentary

When Hyuna was first imagined, she was very different from her current self: instead of light and refreshing, she had a heavier and serious vibe. As development progressed, this aura changed, but Hyuna's character remained upright and righteous.^[1]

Although she presents herself as a cheerful and free character, Hyuna has a deep past following her. The occasional look into her struggles is profound yet rare. Unlike the characters of the 50th Season of Alien Stage, Hyuna had the opportunity to grow both on the inside and on the outside. In light of her resentment over Anakt Garden, Hyuna strives to live as freely and independently as possible.^[2]

After she saved Mizi, Hyuna was able to let her experience a life full of freedom, doing whatever she desired, which was unlike anything Mizi ever imagined, so different from what is expected of pet humans. Even if it could be too extreme. ^[3]

After his first appearance in Sweet Dream, Hyuna's younger brother, Hyunwoo, shows up for a second time. Hyuna and Luka's connection began when Hyunwoo looked after Luka while he was having trouble fitting in during their time in Anakt Garden, and Hyuna gets her just and righteous personality from Hyunwoo's influence.^[4] Luka's smiling expression while covered in blood is deeply engraved in Hyuna's trauma.^[5]

Hyuna is a natural entertainer and truly enjoys being on stage. Singing and performing have always been a source of comfort for her, even during tough times.^[6] Nonetheless, it's still a a painful act for her as it brings her back to terrible memories.^[7]

In All-in, Mizi's long hair, a symbol of her obsession with the past, is cut off, a moment that shows her beginning a new stage of growth.^[8] Although in ROUND 5 Luka covers Mizi's vision of the screens in front of her, this time, Mizi stands in front of the screens of him as she takes a step forward.^[9]

At the same time, Hyuna wears sunglasses in the episode, showing her avoidance of her own trauma, but she's moved by Mizi's growth and chooses to take a step forward alongside her.^[10]

Trivia

TBA

References

[1] Alien Stage Official Artbook Pg. 150

[2] Alien Stage Official Artbook Pg. 151

[3] Alien Stage Official Artbook Pg. 152

[4] Alien Stage Official Artbook Pg. 154

[5] Alien Stage Official Artbook Pg. 159

[6] Alien Stage Official Artbook Pg. 160

[7] Alien Stage Official Artbook Pg. 161

[8] Alien Stage Official Artbook Pg. 163

[9] Alien Stage Official Artbook Pg. 164

[10] Alien Stage Official Artbook Pg. 165