English Dub Review: Tokyo Revengers: “Respect”

Overview: Takamichi (AJ Beckles) manages to save Draken (Sean Chiplock) from the demise he was destined for and earns an official Toman jacket as a reward. Later, Hanagaki returns to the present to find that things have changed such as both Akkun (John Omohundro) and Hinata (Lizzie Freeman) being alive. 

Our Take: While one may argue drawing up drama over the potential death of Draken is a bit cheap, considering all the trials and tribulations Takamichi went through to save him from his ill-fated one. I would say just the opposite in fact. This allows the series to highlight the effect that Draken has on Mikey and even more of the strong bond that they share with one another. Not to mention it also showcases the vulnerabilities despite his outward facing strength. It was also just really cool to finally see Hanagaki’s role within Toman solidified by receiving an official, none other than Mikey’s old one. The hospital scenes also just go to show how intelligent and observant Mikey is with him being on to Takamichi and his knowledge of the past. 

We also finally get to see the repercussions it’s having on Takamichi’s present as a whole with events having changed. It is also neat to see how they are not just huge changes but smaller ones too like Takamichi having his old job that he had originally lost. But the big kahunas are definitely the most satisfying like that of Akkun not only being alive and well but finally living his dream by working at a salon and becoming a hairstylist. There is also a sweet callback to his childhood moment with Takamichi, that with all the time hoping ironically enough feels like it is well in the past. But of course, arguably the biggest fish is that of Hinata once again in the land of the living in present day Tokyo that will more than likely be an emotional affair next episode. 

“Respect” is an incredible follow-up to the battle between Mobius and Toman highlighting Mikey’s multifaceted character along with great writing and sweet moments all around.