English Dub Review: SING “YESTERDAY” FOR ME: “A Misfit’s Attempt at Self-Reform”

Overview: Rikuo (Aaron Campbell) gets a blast from the past when his crush, Morinome (Michelle Rojas), comes back to town and he must confront his deeper issues as he meets a crow-befriending girl in Haru (Jill Harris). 

Our Take: “A Misfit’s Attempt at Self-Reform” straps you the f*ck in and goes straight for your emotional jugular. This is all through the lens of the slacker, Rikuo Uozumi, who acts as a heart-wrenching bridge to the relatable issue that those less motivated and undecided in their career come across in seeing their peers succeed. The pain and insecurity that comes with that is conveyed well in how he interacts with his convenience store manager, but even more so in his long-time and more goal-oriented crush, Morinome, who is just beginning to go on to greener pastures. 

Uozumi’s lack of drive empowers his chemistry with his newfound crow loving friend, Haru, who plays a pivotal role in how relatable both of them are. She is also just so damn likable in how pushy and cheeky she is. The catalyst for what solidifies Uozumi and Haru’s understanding of one another comes from the former putting himself out there and confessing his feelings for Morinome. It is a strong moment, showing how he is trying to take risks and go after what he wants, even though he is rejected. The aftermath is a sympathizing moment with Uozumi’s anger over the sheer embarrassment. Haru and Rikuo’s similarities bring out their insecurities in a raw scene showing how scared they both are of being honest and open about their feelings in fear of getting hurt but, at the same time, getting nothing in return emotionally. The show, visually, also has a pleasing look with detailed Japanese streets and neighborhoods with expressive character facial features for heartfelt pivotal moments that sets the stage for a deeper character study as it gets to the core of Rikuo and Haru.