DEATH NOTE
"Who else could've done it, and come this far?"
Death Note - Movie Quotes
Memorable Quotes
I am justice!
— Light Yagami and L Lawliet
Context:
Both characters proclaim this line during their initial confrontation in Episode 2, "Confrontation." Light shouts it internally, affirming his belief in his righteous crusade, while L says it to the police task force, establishing his role as the arbiter of lawful justice.
Meaning:
This quote, declared by both protagonists at different times, perfectly encapsulates the central conflict of the series. It highlights their diametrically opposed ideologies and the arrogant conviction each has in their own definition of justice, setting the stage for their epic battle of wits.
This world is rotten, and those who are making it rot deserve to die. Someone has to do it, so why not me?
— Light Yagami
Context:
This is part of Light's internal monologue in the first episode, "Rebirth," after he tests the Death Note for the second time and confirms its power. It is the moment he decides to embark on his crusade.
Meaning:
This quote establishes Light's initial motivation and his god complex. It reveals his justification for using the Death Note, positioning himself as a necessary evil and the only one with the intellect and will to cleanse the world. It marks the beginning of his transformation into Kira.
If you can't win the game, if you can't solve the puzzle, you're just a loser.
— Near
Context:
Near says this in the second half of the series while explaining his philosophy and his approach to catching Kira, contrasting his methods with those of his rival, Mello. It underscores the high-stakes, intellectual nature of the conflict.
Meaning:
This quote represents the philosophy of L's successors, particularly Near. It frames the hunt for Kira not just as a moral crusade but as an intellectual challenge, a puzzle to be solved. It shows a colder, more game-like approach to justice compared to L's more passionate pursuit.
The human whose name is written in this note shall die.
— Rule I of the Death Note
Context:
This rule is written on the first page of the Death Note that Light finds in Episode 1, "Rebirth." It is the first thing he reads and the catalyst for the entire plot.
Meaning:
This is not a spoken quote by a character, but the first and most important rule of the Death Note. It is the core premise upon which the entire series is built. Its simple, absolute finality sets the dark, supernatural tone and establishes the immense power that has fallen into human hands.