Revolutionary Girl Utena Season 1 Episode 7 Unfulfilled Juri

In Revolutionary Girl Utena season 1 episode 7, titled "Unfulfilled Juri," the focus turns to Juri Arisugawa, a fierce and stoic member of the student council at Ohtori Academy. Juri is known for her exceptional sword skills and cool demeanor, but there is a deeper side to her that is explored in this episode.

The episode begins with Juri watching as a young student named Shiori Takatsuki throws herself at her crush, a member of the kendo club named Ruka Tsuchiya. Juri watches with a mix of fascination and despair, as she once had feelings for Shiori herself, but Shiori seems to only have eyes for Ruka. Juri's lingering feelings for Shiori have caused her to hold a grudge against Ruka, and she challenges him to a kendo duel in hopes of finally expressing her true feelings.

As Juri and Ruka face off in the kendo match, flashbacks reveal more about Juri and Shiori's past relationship. Juri had once protected Shiori from bullies and they became close friends, but Juri's feelings for Shiori turned romantic and she confessed her love. However, Shiori rejected her, claiming that she could never see Juri as anything other than a friend. This rejection has haunted Juri ever since, leading her to close off her heart and focus solely on her sword skills.

The kendo match between Juri and Ruka becomes intense, with both fighters showing off their impressive skills. However, Juri's emotions become overwhelming and she loses focus, allowing Ruka to win the match. Juri is devastated, feeling that she has once again failed to express herself and has lost to her rival in love.

As Juri leaves the kendo club, she runs into Shiori and Ruka. Shiori reveals that she has actually had feelings for Juri all along, but was too afraid to admit them. Juri is shocked and overwhelmed, but ultimately decides to move on from her painful past and start anew with Shiori. The episode ends with a sense of hope for Juri, who has finally unburdened herself of her unrequited love and can focus on a brighter future.

Overall, "Unfulfilled Juri" is a powerful and emotional episode that explores themes of love, rejection, and self-discovery. It delves deep into Juri's character, revealing her vulnerabilities and struggles in a way that adds depth and complexity to the series as a whole. It also introduces new characters and relationships that will have profound impacts on the rest of the show. Fans of Revolutionary Girl Utena will find much to enjoy in this episode, which blends action, drama, and romance in a compelling and thought-provoking way.