Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion II – Transgression (2018)

The Cost of Power

The second film in the Code Geass recap trilogy, Transgression dives deeper into Lelouch’s rebellion and the mounting consequences of his choices. As Zero’s revolution grows in power and reach, the lines between justice and tyranny blur, forcing Lelouch to confront the price of his own ambition.

Movie Overview

Title: Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion II – Transgression
Runtime: 132 minutes
Release Date: February 10, 2018
Studio: Sunrise
Streaming Platforms: Crunchyroll, HBO max, Amazon Prime Video
Theme Song: “The Moon” by Ali Project

Story Summary

Continuing from the events of Initiation, Lelouch vi Britannia’s alter ego, Zero, leads the Black Knights in full-scale rebellion against the Britannian Empire. His brilliant tactics win him victories across Area 11, but every triumph brings heavier burdens.

As his army grows, so do the cracks in his relationships — especially with Suzaku Kururugi, his former friend turned enemy, and C.C., whose mysterious past begins to unfold. Lelouch’s double life as a student and revolutionary becomes increasingly unsustainable, forcing him to make devastating choices that test his humanity.

Unlike the original series, Transgression alters specific story beats and character fates to fit the movie continuity — setting the stage for the alternate sequel film, Lelouch of the Re;surrection (2019).

Major Arcs Covered

• Battle for Tokyo: Zero’s uprising escalates to an all-out war.

• Euphemia’s Tragedy: A shocking incident that changes the course of the rebellion.

• Rise of the Black Knights: Lelouch’s army becomes a global revolutionary force.

• Suzaku’s Ascension: Suzaku’s ideals are shattered as he climbs the Britannian ranks.

Main Characters

• Lelouch vi Britannia / Zero: The rebel prince caught between justice and vengeance.

• C.C.: The immortal witch whose contract binds her fate to Lelouch.

• Suzaku Kururugi: Lelouch’s conflicted rival, loyal to Britannia yet haunted by guilt.

• Euphemia li Britannia: The gentle princess whose dream of peace meets a tragic end.

• Kallen Stadtfeld: The Black Knights’ fierce ace pilot and Lelouch’s trusted ally.

Themes and Style

• The Duality of Power: Can a tyrant’s methods create a just world?

• Fate & Free Will: Lelouch’s Geass blurs the line between destiny and choice.

• Sacrifice: Every victory demands a loss, every plan a compromise.

• Identity: The conflict between Lelouch the prince and Zero the revolutionary.

Animation & Visuals

Sunrise continues to refine the visual style, enhancing emotional moments and large-scale battles with movie-quality animation. The Tokyo settlement siege and the emotional Euphemia scene are visually stunning and devastatingly powerful. The color palette reflects Lelouch’s descent into darkness — vivid, sharp, and hauntingly beautiful.

Where to Watch

You can stream or purchase Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion II – Transgression on:

• Crunchyroll

• HBO Max

• Amazon Prime Video

Popularity & Reception

Transgression was praised for its emotional depth and sharper pacing compared to Initiation. Fans lauded the film’s reimagined narrative and striking visuals, though its darker tone and changes to key events sparked debate. It remains a pivotal chapter in the new Code Geass timeline.

Final Thoughts

Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion II – Transgression (2018) raises the stakes in every sense — emotionally, politically, and morally. It’s a story about ambition’s cost and the consequences of trying to change the world through power. This chapter transforms Code Geass from rebellion into tragedy, preparing the stage for the climactic finale.