English Dub Review: Irina: The Vampire Cosmonaut: “Lycoris Cooking Show”

Overview: Irina (Tia Ballard) finally takes flight to the stars above with Lev (Stephen Fu) cheering her on from the ground below. 

Our Take: Irina prepares for her space launch, all without Lev, however he is able to see her off though. Their moments before liftoff drive home their trust amongst each other in Irina trusting Lev with her cherished necklace and Lev’s in her making it back to Earth, making for a wholesome departure. The suspense of whether or not Irina survives is built up, but it never really seriously lands due to the stabilization of the rocket being constantly reiterated with it feeling like a clear ploy. While it is bittersweet that Lev can’t join her on the mission, Irina makes up for that unfortunate with a special moment in which she reads a recipe/encoded message, signifying her launch was a success. However, more than that it gives Lev a glimpse as to how she feels up in the stars with their night out trying the lemon seltzer she came to love that Lev introduced to her. The show also doubles down on just how disgusting Zirnitra higher ups are with how paranoid and unremorseful some are in immediately wanting to kill Irina when they don’t understand her encoded message to Lev and fear the worst. 

When Irina crashed back onto Earth, safe and sound, it allows for one of the most heartfelt moments between her and Lev to date. Lev finally realizes that he does not see her as a monster, but as a simple girl and a hell of a cosmonaut, one that won’t receive the recognition she deserves for her accomplishment but that he will proudly remember. Their tearful reunion, rejoicing in Irina’s survival, is an endearing testament to how well their relationship has developed in such a short time and how much they care for each other.