English Dub Review: Disney Twisted-Wonderland the Animation “A Duel Ill-Advised”

Overview (Spoilers Below): 

The shock of learning his dorm residents’ anger causes Riddle to undergo an ominous change.

Our Take:

The duel between Ace, Deuce, and Riddle didn’t bode well for either of them, mainly Riddle.  In addition to being a strict asshole, Riddle reveals himself to be a sore winner, as he uses his collar magic on Ace and the others immediately after the duel begins.  Considering that his personality is inspired by the Queen of Hearts and his mother is a cold-hearted bitch who traumatized him, it’s far from a surprise.  However, his actions were also the straws that finally broke the camel’s back, as Riddle’s students began to turn on him for his tyranny.

Riddle’s supposed downfall had been heavily teased throughout the last few episodes, with the blots overshadowing Riddle’s staff from his overuse of magic and negative emotions.  Not only that, but these episodes made me eager for someone to punch him in the face.  That moment has finally arrived in this episode, with Ace giving Riddle a knuckle sandwich, a victory that tastes much sweeter than a tart.  Unfortunately, the students’ resilience and Riddle’s continued temper led Riddle to transform into an Overblot monster resembling the Queen of Hearts.  This turning point of the season was not only satisfying in seeing Riddle get what he finally deserves, but it also highlights the tragedy stemming from Riddle’s loss of happiness, affected by his abusive mother.

“A Duel Ill-Advised” is another episode that further explores the season’s themes of generational trauma and tyranny, as evidenced by Riddle’s breaking point.  More importantly, it provides another reason why Paul Castro Jr. is the season’s highlight regarding his portrayal of Riddle.  Seriously, is there really anyone else who can channel this character’s rage and insanity as effectively as Castro Jr.?  Understandably, most English dubs may not be as tolerable as the original versions.  However, Castro Jr.’s incredible performance in the English dub of Twisted-Wonderland is another proof that some English dubs are worth giving a chance.