TLDR;
The Dub Talk podcast discusses the English dub of "Jujutsu Kaisen" Season 1, praising the voice direction, script adaptation, and performances while noting some issues with double casting and initial character portrayals. The hosts explore the characters, their backstories, and the overall quality of the dub, comparing it to other anime dubs and the original Japanese version.
- The dub's comedic writing and distinct character voices are highlighted.
- The voice director, Michael Sorich, is commended for his work.
- Some criticisms are raised regarding double casting and initial character portrayals.
Intro [0:00]
The podcast begins with the hosts introducing themselves and their tradition of eating strange things they find on the ground. They acknowledge reaching 5,000 subscribers after six years and announce the topic of the episode: the English dub of "Jujutsu Kaisen." A brief synopsis of the anime is provided, describing a world where curses are born from negative human emotions and a young man, Yuji Itadori, becomes a vessel for a powerful curse to protect his friends.
General Impressions of the Dub [2:36]
The hosts describe the show as "early Bleach but written by a millennial," noting its references to pop culture. They commend the scriptwriter for balancing hardcore action with comedy and fun one-liners. The dub is compared to mid-2000s anime dubs, with an emphasis on distinct character voices.
ADR Staff and Script Adaptation [6:10]
The hosts discuss the ADR director, Juan Michael Sorich, highlighting his extensive work with Crunchyroll and Studiopolis. They commend the scriptwriter for the show's comedic writing and incorporation of millennial references. The script maintains consistent terminology, and the dub takes small liberties with character interpretations, such as Fushiguro's open-ended preference for his type of woman.
Staff at Jujutsu Tech [23:22]
The hosts discuss the staff at Jujutsu Tech, including Utahime Iori, Kiyotaka Ijichi, Shoko Ieiri, and Akari Nitta, and the voice actors who portray them. They praise Chris Tergliafera's performance as Ijichi, noting how he conveys the character's constant frustration and underappreciation. Tara Sands' portrayal of Utahime is also highlighted, with her interactions with Gojo being particularly enjoyable.
More Jujutsu Tech Faculty [37:29]
The podcast shifts to discussing more of the DD2 Tech faculty, specifically Principal Yaga, Principal Gakuganji, and Captain Akari Nitta. Keith Silverstein's portrayal of Principal Yaga is praised for his authoritative yet caring demeanor, while Kyle Hebert's performance as Principal Gakuganji is described as wonderfully loathsome. David Vincent's take on Captain Nitta is also lauded.
Kyoto Bridge Students [1:00:37]
The hosts discuss the students from the Kyoto Bridge, including Mekamaru, Kasumi Miwa, Noritoshi Kamo, Momo Nishimiya, Mai Zenin, and Aoi Todo, along with their respective voice actors. They note the high amount of double and triple casting in this group, with Keith Silverstein's portrayal of Mekamaru being criticized for sounding too similar to Principal Yaga. Xander Mobus's performance as Todo is praised.
Curses [1:33:49]
The podcast transitions to discussing the curses in the series, including Mahito, Hanami, Jogo, and Junpei Yoshino. Lucien Dodge's portrayal of Mahito is lauded for his unsettling and childish nature, while Marie Westbrook's performance as Hanami is praised for her ethereal and mystical voice. Michael Sorich's take on Jogo is described as reminiscent of an 80s cartoon henchman.
Tokyo Branch Students [2:06:43]
The hosts discuss the main characters from the Tokyo branch of Jujutsu Tech: Toge Inumaki, Panda, and Maki Zenin. They praise Xander Mobus's performance as Inumaki, Matthew David Rudd's portrayal of Panda, and Allegra Clark's take on Maki. The double casting of Allegra Clark and Xander Mobus is noted, but their ability to create distinct voices for each character is commended.
Main Characters: Yuji, Sukuna, Nobara, Megumi, Gojo [2:25:11]
The podcast discusses the main characters: Yuji Itadori, Sukuna, Nobara Kugisaki, Megumi Fushiguro, and Satoru Gojo. They praise Adam McArthur's growth as Yuji, Ray Chase's menacing Sukuna, Anne Yatco's portrayal of Nobara, Robbie Daymond's performance as Megumi, and Kaiji Tang's take on Gojo. The hosts highlight the dynamic between Yuji and Sukuna, as well as the unique qualities of each character.
Final Thoughts [3:23:36]
The hosts share their final thoughts on "Jujutsu Kaisen" and its English dub. They commend the show's brisk pacing, animation quality, and unique sense of humor. The dub is praised for its solid performances and overall watchability. The hosts encourage listeners to watch the show and support their podcast through various platforms.