English Dub Review: Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation: “Wake Up and Take a Step”

Overview: Rudeus (Madeleine Morris, Ben Phillips) finds himself in a downward spiral that he needs to climb himself out of as Ruijerd (Christopher Wehkamp) and Eris (Lindsay Seidel) walk their own paths. 

Our Take: Although the team of Dead End may be disbanded, each of the members’ respective spirit rages on showing how they are moving forward. For Rudeus, that proves to be the hardest amongst them all in how he is still reeling from his separation from Eris and unwilling to help others, despite Alphonse telling him of others that are in need just as much as him, on account of the magical displacement. Rudeus, unable to think of anyone else’s troubling issues, nicely transitions into his past issues but also those hit close to home for so many of us in struggling to find the courage to move forward. 

Ruijerd is making a name for himself in a way most honorable way that most would aspire to through their good heart and moral compass, and especially that of a Superd, is an incredible conclusion to him in proving the horrific widespread notion of his clan wrong. As for Eris, her wanting to be stronger in order to stand side-by-side with Rudeus and being able to come to his aid is also an incredible moment that showcases not only how her own emotional fortitude has developed but that of her relationship with Rudeus. 

 Roxy and the gang meeting with the demon lord to find out where Zenith is, she sets out to find Zenith, whose location is in or near that of an ocean. This makes her situation very puzzling as to where exactly she is and what she’s been up to since being separated from Paul and the rest of her family. Speaking of Paul, his reunion with Lilia and Aisha is bittersweet without Zenith but still a heartfelt moment one nonetheless has he reaffirms the Norn’s faith that she is still out there and Rudeus is looking. 

Roxy also learns of Rudy’s depression. However, that sentiment does not linger too long with her confidence in his ability to bounce back. A confidence that was well placed as Rudeus came to terms in that he distorted the truth about his family laughing behind his back in his past life. It is a deep and interesting look into his psyche that is relatable beyond belief, showing how one’s insecurities and paranoia can be all-consuming and tear one apart. However, love for his mother acts as a compelling motivation for him to, not completely move forward, but as the name of the episode declares, to wake up and take a step to save Zenith. The future remains bright especially with Sylphiette revealed to be alive and well and wanting to recruit Rudeus for a prestigious magical school. Although this may be the finale, it feels far from the end. Rather this episode is a strong closing of chapter with each member of Dead End at the starting line of their own unique journeys that, as this series has shown us about them and ourselves, is not a sprint but a marathon. One I can not wait to continue somewhere down the line.