English Dub Review: Hell’s Paradise: “Weak and Strong”

Overview: While struggling with their respective Doshi, Chobei (Nazeeh Tarsha) and Gabimaru (Alejandro Saab) begin learning the ins and outs of the mysterious power, Tao. 

Our Take: The Doshi are tough, but never seemed like an insurmountable threat, especially with Chobei’s potential in battle. When on the backfoot, Chobei’s developments are scary in the monstrously rapid pace he picks up Tao, using it with pure savagery. However, there’s logic to it in the roots acting as a unique enhancement to his body’s healing factor. There’s a tinge of danger associated with the looming affliction with increased usage of Tao. 

Unfortunately, potential doesn’t seem to extend to his brother, Toma, with the same applying to his character as well. Chobei’s appeal lies in the pain he’s willing to endure for his younger sibling and brutal ferocity. As for Toma, his entire personality seemingly revolves around Chobei’s wellbeing and whining about it. Even his presence during threats is confined to clearing cannon fodder that even Chobei knows are worthless. Thankfully though, the same is not the case for Gabimaru. 

Gabimaru’s own battle against his Doshi highlights how second nature his kindness is becoming. His decision to save Mei on his own merit, proceeding with what he’s been taught from Yui and Sagiri beautifully highlights that. His quick mastery of Tao is eerie in how quickly he obliterates bug goliaths and dodges invisible projectiles. And again, the series does an exceptional job at crossing its t’s, demonstrating how his shinobi techniques lends itself to understanding Tao fast. Also, it plays on Gabimaru’s vulnerabilities, having him embrace and use them as a strength, a strong extension of his internal arc. 

With Sagiri and the others in the midst of a new Tensen, it’ll be interesting to see how they fare. Especially if they pick up the mystical power as fast as Gabimaru and Chobei.