English Dub Review: Jellyfish Can’t Swim in the Night “Take a Look at Reality”

Overview

Kano’s mother Yukine offers Mahiru a life-altering opportunity; the kind that launches careers. But it may clash with JELEE’s plans. And there’s the matter of Kano’s reaction…

Our Take

In the tradition of most anime, we finally get the “obligatory flashback episode”. Up until now, one of the biggest mysteries of the show is why Kano/Nonoka during her Idol days impulsively punched one of her singing partners, along with why this caused such a scandal and the falling out she had with her mother/manager Yukine. This episode not only answers those questions but re-contextualizes all of Kano’s hang-ups with her estranged mother and the difficult path she took within the entertainment world, where the unresolved issues of Kano’s parents and the pressures of fame come to the surface.

Meanwhile, Yoru/Mahiru’s career begins to take a new direction, adding tension to her friendship with Kano. Each character faces pivotal decisions that reveal their differing values and ambitions, pushing their relationship to its breaking point. The emotional complexity of their bond is explored in a way that feels both realistic and heartfelt, with each of them striving to balance personal dreams with loyalty to one another.

Overall, this episode is a turning point that uses drama and backstory to deepen our understanding of these characters. Through Kano’s flashbacks, it’s easy to gain a better understanding of her motivations and the underlying reasons for her impulsive behavior, especially around those closest to her. The themes of ambition, friendship, and self-worth are brought to the forefront. And with three episodes left, I’m curious to see how it’ll all work out somehow…