English Dub Review: Jujustsu Kaisen: “Small Fry and Reverse Retribution”

Overview:

Yuji (Adam McArthur) teams up with a new Jujutsu Sorcerer this time around and close friend of Gojo’s (Kaiji Tang) as they investigate a new cursed spirit that begins wreaking havoc. 

Our Take:

In just a short amount of time, Satoru Gojo has defined himself as a standout character and in Crunchyroll’s opinion, is Best Boy award material. Because of how much that goes without saying (in this humble writer’s opinion at least), any Jujutsu sorcerer has his/her work cut out for them in standing out. Well ladies and gentlemen, Kento Nanami is here and more than up to the task. Kento’s excessively blunt and definite attitude is not only hilarious to watch but his chemistry with Satoru is undeniably another charming aspect of them both. His character plays off of the lighthearted Gojo so well. In the future, I would adore a case they could both take on together to get some more of that. Their interactions left me wanting more and that’s always a great start, especially to a character’s introductory episode. Along with their dynamic, Kento and Yuji’s is also very fun and differs greatly from theirs. Although not a teacher at Jujutsu Tech, due to his real-world life experience, is presented as an instructive mentor for Yuji. Nanami and Yuji also share some funny moments due to how taken aback Yuji is to his very particular nature. Also as per usual for the staff at this point, MAPPA has chosen to really fatten us up and serve up a five course meal that is their ferocious fight sequences. Quick movements seem to be their bread and butter as those always have the feeling of incredible momentum with Kento slicing and dicing like the cursed spirit chef that he is with his unique ratio technique. Speaking of which, one other aspect that is commendable is just how much Jujutsu sorcerer’s powers have varied up to this point, as no two abilities feel the same. Yuji’s abilities are also put on display with his debut attack of the divergent fist along with his already well-documented physical prowess. Yuji presents a lot of potential especially considering it’s already a flawed technique yet has so much immense power. Mix in his beastly strength and you’ve got a recipe for various possibilities. While the fights are fantastic, this episode also begins to define the difficulties that come with being a Jujutsu Sorcerer. It’s these more intimate and personal scenes that are crucial. The increasingly moral complexities will be a big factor in how well the arcs proceed. 

As the Itadori and Nanami’s investigation continues, they’re eventually led to high school student, Junpei Yoshino. The classic case of the weaker being preyed upon by bullies is one that often never fails to tug at the heartstrings even if just a little. But part of what helps drive it home is the reality of those who pretend not to see such transgressions.  Along with a bunch of new characters, new lore about cursed spirits manifestation is learned. Not only is it fascinating to learn about but it also opens up the universe with a great vastness and teases unlimited variety in enemies that can enter the series. Jujutsu Kaisen continues with another great adventure stuffed to the gills with amazing fights, interesting new characters and new twists at every turn.