English Dub Review: My Hero Academia “Shoto Todoroki: Origin”

Funimation could have a player in the top 10 shows of the year.

The majority of My Hero Academia season 2 focuses on the U.A. High School Sports Festival. Izuku Midoriya, or Deku (Justin Briner), the series protagonist, finally takes on his rival, Todoroki (David Matranga). But rather than concentrating primarily on Deku, “Shoto Todoroki: Origin” is instead an origin story of Todoroki.

Whereas past battles remain neat, the showdown between Todoroki and Deku is captivating. There’s a sense of importance not only for progression in the festival but also because of the rivalry between Deku and Todoroki.

Visuals are exquisite with a few epic shots that reminded me of scenes from Akira: massive explosions, bright technicolor mixed with drab environments. My Hero Academia employs flashbacks as a storytelling element. But “Shoto Todoroki: Origin” features prominent flashbacks relaying Todoroki’s tragic childhood and explaining his drive to win as well as a reluctance to use his left side, or fire quirk (ability).

“Shoto Todoroki: Origin” arrived as a major surprise. Most of the episode is a tense battle which proceeds sort of where you expect. Yet the finale is an unexpected turn of events. For this, “Shoto Todoroki: Origin” is my favorite episode of the season. Notably, the entire season thus far focused on the U.A. sports fest. Not only does Season 2 concentrate on one story arc, but it occurs in the same physical location for most of the season.

However, varied narrative structure and shocking events infused a fresh element. Though My Hero Academia season 1 is a strong entry, season 2 bests its predecessor. After “Shoto Todoroki: Origin,” I’m really not quite sure where the season will progress from here for its finale.