English Dub Review: KOWLOON GENERIC ROMANCE Episode 5

Overview

Reiko tries to learn more about Kujirai B. Meanwhile, Yaomay acts strangely when Reiko mentions the name Yangli.

Our Take

Picking up from the previous episode, the cliffhanger, offered no real payoff and raised more questions about narrative intent. Still, the show continues to expand its layers of mystery. Strange occurrences around a certain book, lingering questions about hidden identities, and a deepening sense of psychological unease add to the eerie atmosphere.

Much of the proceedings this time centers around Yaomay, who experiences an emotionally resonant character arc that adds some needed heart to the narrative. While the pacing remains uneven, jumping between quiet introspection and rapid plot developments, the portrayal of personal trauma, self-identity, and unspoken bonds gives the story more weight. A standout performance and a deeper look into one character’s past lend a sense of humanity amidst the surreal setting and help contextualize some of their earlier actions and decisions.

Overall, this episode adds another layer to the show’s evolving mystery while offering rare, poignant character moments for Yaomay. Though the pacing stumbles and the cliffhanger may leave viewers feeling a bit manipulated, there’s enough emotional payoff and intrigue to keep the story compelling. While the mystery deepens and theories continue to swirl about what this version of “Kowloon” really is, the focus here remains firmly on personal growth, identity, and the weight of hidden truths. Despite an underwhelming payoff to the earlier cliffhanger, the installment still manages to engage by slowing down just enough to let its characters breathe. And also stay tuned for the 3-minute-long post-credits scene that’s one hell of an eye-opener!