is bleach episode 55 filler?

As Ichigo Kurosaki blocks his Zanpakutō strike with his Shikai, Zangetsu, 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki inquires why Ichigo keeps trying to rescue Rukia Kuchiki, only for Ichigo to point out that Byakuya is Rukia's brother and question why he does not try to save her in response. Closing his eyes, Byakuya asserts that this is a foolish question and that someone like Ichigo would not understand even if he revealed the answer.

After deciding that talking serves no purpose, Byakuya begins exerting his Reiatsu along the length of his Zanpakutō and begins forcing Zangetsu downward with his increased force.