The ending of Great Pretender Case 4, “Wizard of Oz,” left many viewers pondering the profound symbolism woven into its visuals and music. Building upon fan theories, this analysis delves into the prominent role of cats, specifically in relation to Laurent Thierry and the lingering presence of Dorothy, particularly as it connects to the poignant ending song. We’ll explore how these feline figures and subtle nods to “The Wizard of Oz” enrich our understanding of grief, acceptance, and the intricate emotional landscape of Great Pretender.
Cat Symbolism: Laurent’s Grief and Dorothy’s Lingering Presence
One compelling interpretation suggests that cats in the Great Pretender ending sequence are not merely background details but powerful symbols, especially concerning Laurent’s emotional state. The spotted cat, distinctly featured swimming through a dark ocean reminiscent of Dorothy’s supposed drowning, is theorized to represent Laurent himself. This arduous swim can be seen as Laurent’s desperate struggle to come to terms with Dorothy’s death, his denial manifesting as a search through a metaphorical sea of grief.
The cat’s subsequent engulfment by darkness vividly portrays Laurent’s descent into depression upon fully realizing Dorothy’s absence. This imagery resonates deeply with the earlier scenes in Case 4 where Laurent mistakes a similar spotted cat for Dorothy. The heartbreaking moment where this cat, in its innocent feline manner, breaks a pot, becomes a catalyst for Laurent’s acceptance of Dorothy’s permanent departure and his subsequent emotional collapse.
In the ending sequence, the spotted cat is ultimately embraced by Dorothy, a transition that seamlessly shifts to an image of Laurent embracing her. This poignant visual is underscored by the lyrics of the ending song, “I pretend you’re still around.” This line encapsulates Laurent’s emotional reality: Dorothy, even in her absence, remains his source of comfort and a figure he mentally clings to.
Cats as Emblems of Comfort and Acceptance
Beyond Laurent’s personal journey, cats in Great Pretender appear to function as broader symbols of comfort and acceptance. This symbolism is initially hinted at through Edamura’s mother, who is associated with cats. Her contentment with her life and peaceful acceptance of death positions cats as emblems of serenity and letting go. She provided comfort to Edamura, much like the symbolic cats in the ending.
Laurent, in stark contrast, struggles with acceptance. He cannot easily let go of Dorothy and, as the song suggests, “pretends she’s still around” as a coping mechanism, seeking comfort in her memory. This internal conflict highlights the duality of cat symbolism: while representing peace and acceptance, they also embody the human desire for comfort in the face of loss, a comfort Laurent desperately craves. The recurring imagery of relaxed cats playing throughout the ending sequence could also be interpreted as a commentary on the con artists’ pursuit of a stress-free lifestyle, a life of comfort they aim to achieve through their elaborate schemes.
The Wizard of Oz Echoes: Dorothy and Oz
The narrative of Great Pretender is rich with allusions, and the subtle yet persistent references to “The Wizard of Oz” add another layer of intrigue. Edamura’s father’s nickname, “Oz,” immediately draws a parallel to the “Wizard” himself. The Wizard’s ultimate reveal as a conman, not the powerful figure he projected, mirrors the deceptive nature inherent in Edamura’s father’s profession.
Furthermore, the name “Dorothy,” shared with the iconic protagonist of “The Wizard of Oz,” is unlikely a mere coincidence. While the exact nature of Dorothy’s connection to the Oz narrative within Great Pretender remains open to interpretation, the deliberate naming choice suggests a deeper thematic link. Could Dorothy be the key to understanding another layer of deception or illusion within the Great Pretender universe, much like her namesake’s journey through a fantastical, yet ultimately fabricated, world?
The symbolism of cats and the subtle nods to “The Wizard of Oz,” particularly within the ending song sequence of Great Pretender, invite viewers to delve deeper into the anime’s rich tapestry of themes. The cats serve as poignant visual metaphors for grief, comfort, and acceptance, while the “Wizard of Oz” allusions hint at layers of deception and illusion that permeate the narrative. As fans continue to dissect Great Pretender, these symbolic elements offer valuable insights into the characters’ emotional journeys and the anime’s overarching message.
