According to Netflix, in 1999 when the service started 5.3% of their movie rentals were foreign films; in 2006 it rose to 5.8%. It is pretty well known that foreign films do not perform well in the box offices in general; the numbers speak for themselves. Sure there are some breakout hits but generally foreign films do not get the audiences that Americans ones do. (Source: New York Times).
My view is anime, like movies, music, books and other media, is an art form. Dubbing anime comprises the integrity of the show and degrades its authenticity. Dubbing companies are taking the original voice actors of a show and replacing them for a new audience. Typically these companies are third party and aside from some advice from the original producers they make most of the voice acting decisions themselves. They sometimes remove cultural references and often use loose translations in order to make a show more appealing. If you are a purist then subbed anime with a literal translation is the only way to go in my opinion.
You seem to have intentionally misinterpreted most of what I said in order to prove your point. So I will go over what I originally said and compare it to your response:
I said: I stand by all my statements, subtitled anime is better and it is the only way to watch anime if you want an authentic experience.
Your reply: Wrong again, it is not the only way to watch anime, ever. To be honest, you're attempting to force your own one sided views on others as if they are the only possible one.
If you read what I said I did not say subbed is the only way to enjoy anime, I said it is the only way to enjoy anime if you want an authentic experience. Dubbing is not authentic.
I am allowed to have an opinion on dubbed voice acting even if it is different from yours. Also, you do not know the opinions of the people distributing anime in America. Dubbing companies are a business and they are trying to make money. They do not dub anime for fun; they do it so their product can reach a broader audience. If they left anime in its original form and just added English subtitles fewer people would buy it (I think you have already proven that).
This lecturing and cherry picking of my words has to stop because it is getting condescending. At this point you are not even supporting your side of the argument anymore. Instead you are resorting to personal attacks and accusations. By stating my opinion I am not forcing it on anyone, I am merely providing it.
I'm sorry I offended you but I was speaking for the general American audience. Americans usually do not like subtitled movies or black and white movies.
How about you provide some actual studies or statistics to back this claim? Having a handful of friends or talking to a others around a site such as theOtaku is far from being an accurate source to make the claim that the "general American audience" does not like a certain format. ^_~
I stand by all my statements, subtitled anime is better and it is the only way to watch anime if you want an authentic experience. If you want to subject yourself to poor voice acting and pay for it that is your choice.
Wrong again, it is not the only way to watch anime, ever. To be honest, you're attempting to force your own one sided views on others as if they are the only possible one.
You've also unfairly judged the voice acting of those who do dubbing as if only your opinion of the performance matters. I think you get the point that it is your opinion only and fortunately not one shared by those who produce the shows and DVD's for customers to buy.
I'm sorry I offended you but I was speaking for the general American audience. Americans usually do not like subtitled movies or black and white movies. I stand by all my statements, subtitled anime is better and it is the only way to watch anime if you want an authentic experience. If you want to subject yourself to poor voice acting and pay for it that is your choice.
Americans need to learn to read subtitles, if I could do it then you can. There are very rare cases where I like dubs. You are watching Japanese shows, they should be in Japanese, not English.
How very ignorant of the people's needs or even tastes that opinion really is. I have one very major objection to that line of reasoning and that would be to point out that many Americans (myself being one of them) suffer from vision issues that make keeping up with subtitles in a show next to impossible.
If not for dubbing I would no longer be able to keep up with any anime since unlike a computer where one can adjust the size of the text, subtitles often flash by far to quickly for one such as I to keep up.
For anyone who hates dubbing, get over it. It caters to a wide audience and helps to bring anime over to other countries in the first place. And it also serves the dual purpose of making it possible for someone like me to enjoy it.
Dude, I totally hear what you're saying. The censors are ridiculous at times and editing the blood...Totally a waste. Thankfully that's what uncut box sets are for! =D The Hellsing dub and original are excellent in my opinion. Very nicely done. If anyone wants to complain about lame voice overs, they better not open their mouths again until they watch the REALLY REALLY OLD Astro Boy anime. Ugggh IiI If they didn't edit the dubs completely, I wouldn't be able to watch anime again or even come here. My parents are kinda strict about that... T_T
I remember the first anime was either Speed Racer, Sailor Moon, or Ronin Warriors. Does anyone remeber RW? Man, yeah. Good times... I really appreciate your comment of english dubs without killing the poor companies with hate. Thanks. 4Krap was horrible, but I kinda liked Sanji's old english voice. It was annoying, but strangly adorable. That's just my opinion. Great job. I wonder what the D. Gray-Man dub would be like... =*_*=
Totally agree with you. Glad someone decided to write about this. I mean honestly, how many anime fans here can seriously say that they got into anime because they watched the original Japanese? Probably not very many. Sure, a lot of people hate dubs, but without them, a lot of people would've never gotten into anime in the first place.
Besides, there are a few instances where the dubs are better than the subs in my opinion. Any iteration of Ghost in the Shell has proved how good english voice-actors can be. Some Ghibli movies sound better in english in my opinion as well. Both Cowboy Bebop and Samurai Champloo were very well done also. I remember watching some episodes of Samurai Champloo in Japanese, and it was one of the most alienating things I had ever seen. :P
omg, i think i suddenly have fallen in love. (JUST KIDDING!) no, but seriously, i just want to thank u. i'm not sure if u've read my only article on here, but i address (not quite as well, though) this very same topic. i'm a huuuge dub supporter, and while i like subs as well, i think dubs should be more appreciated. so thanks, and i totally agree with ur article. it's nice to know i'm not the only one that thinks this way.
Ah! I agree,I agree! Not all Dubs are bad. and as it is fun watching anime in japanese smetimes you get too lazy to read subtitles. I know what you're talking about!^__^
Wow Someguy. You never cease to astound me. I really read the whole thing intently! And I'm glad someone more experienced and knowledgable took up the job instead of someone like me (as I've thought about writing in defense and analysis of dubbing and subbing, though I would never have done such a bang up job).
You know, one of the most intriguing points for me was your observation about us criticizing the japanese pronunciations in english dubbed anime, but not the "engrish" in japanese dubbing. Really though, why is it we find "Ku-ri-su-masu" so enchanting compared to "sakura" with a heavy english accent? ...The wheels of the mind turn in bewilderment...
Yet another fine installment of knowledge Someguy. Thank you. I feel very enlightened. :D
I actually appreciate all the hard work that goes into translating an anime into English. Hard work it is, I know.
Anyway, yes, while it can be said that some English speakers' pronunciations of Japanese are quite hard to listen to, so are some Japanese speakers' English (Anyone remember that one episode of Nadesico? Sorry, Houko Kuwashima, I love you to death, but your Engrish is painful, sometimes).
Now as for One Piece...I don't think I'm gonna go there (I don't like either dub).
What I find almost inexcusable is editing anime (as you were mentioning with the whole "kill"/"destroy"/"stop" thing with Gundam Wing). That's worse than a bad dub on my list. But that's just my opinion.
On that note...40%. Haha. Thanks, you just taught me what the alcohol content of vodka is. Not that I needed to know, but if that question ever comes up, I'll know how to answer that.
Wonderful article! *applauds* Though I admit that I've complained about dubs before, I agree that they're gradually getting better. There are now some instances where I prefer the English dub to the Japanese original (examples: Blood+, Death Note, and the Ghibli films).
Voicing is a lot harder than one would think. It's hard to emulate the original tone and meaning when you have a set amount of time in which to say the sentence. The differences in Japanese sentence structure and vocabulary only compound the problem, so the voice actors deserve credit (but thank God for Yuri).
Of course, I usually favor subs. The seiyuu are, for the most part, made of pure awesome. Just as there are instances where I like the English more, there are plenty of instances where I like the Japanese more, too. So you can't really make a blanket statement like "dubs suck" or that the voice actors don't match their characters, blah blah blah. You have to take each individual anime into perspective.
Speaking of perspective, I think that we'd appreciate what we've got a lot more if we watched the anime dubs of other languages--i.e. French, Italian, Chinese. Some of it's okay, but...seriously, Sasuke being voiced by a girl?
Nice one! I lol'd when you threw in the "4 Kids should die" quote. I'm glad that you used evidence to back everything you said (not that you don't usually, but it sets a good example 'round these parts), and I'm glad you wrote this. I hate arguing with people about dubs vs. subs. Usually I just end up coming right back with "But the Cowboy Bebop dub is awesome." Hell, we watched Fullmetal Panic the 2nd Raid dubbed because the jokes were actually translated and made funnier to us as well. Even though Kagome's sidekick had an annoying as hell voice (where they try to make it unnecessarily high pitched like the Japanese ones) the rest was good.
Keep writin' about stuff like this, man. Hopefully people will listen. Then perhaps they'll listen to the rest of us too.
Everyone has their own opinions about the voices and translations. Like how I argue with my friend how she pretty much loves the voices of any anime guy she likes ^^; There are some dubs I prefer like FMA and old Pokemon. But that aside it really depends on the eye of the beholder (or ear in this case...)
Though, the new Pokemon dub will always remain horrible to me -_-;
Being in the UK, we have very, very few anime on our television to begin with. Naruto hasn't been available to buy for that long and still the most widely televised anime is probably Pokemon. Thus, buying anime is really my only option, and in most cases I buy the whole series in its original state with subs.
I do have a few dubs though, and because they are 'big' anime they are done well (for example, Stand Alone Complex and the Ghibli films). However I also bought Sky Blue the other day, and a couple of the voice actors really don't match with their characters and they look completely out of sync. Probably the best for me is Chobits, I have the box set with both the sub and dub version, and the dub is edited only slightly and the voices are very much like the Japanese originals.
Usually, I am all for subs based on the fact most dubbed anime are also edited, sometimes heavily because of the target audience. However a couple of my box sets (Ouran High School Host Club for example) have been translated into English by people whos first language isn't English. Thus, I don't have a clue what they are saying as its Japanese, but the English subs are little help either!
1. The original director choose the original voice actors for a reason, dubbing is just a re-interpretation of an interpretation. The original vision often is lost.
2. Dubbing is just an excuse for anime companies to charge premium prices; $ 25-$30 a DVD with 6 to 7 DVDs in a series is very expensive.
3. Most dubs contain the same voice actors and since most of them don't have that much talent they just lend the same voice to so many characters the character looses some personality.
Americans need to learn to read subtitles, if I could do it then you can. There are very rare cases where I like dubs. You are watching Japanese shows, they should be in Japanese, not English.
Wonderful arguing points, SomeGuy. People need to take a few breaths, relax, then give dubs a chance. It's a form of prejudice that people have, really. And I have to agree about the original Beck script. The Japanese performances of "Moon on the Water", while being emotional and well-done, are frickin' hilarious.
I'd have to admit that there are instances when I prefer the English dub over the Japanese dub. For me, I take importance to how well the series is portrayed and interpreted with respect to the context (genre, setting, plot). This is crucial because one language may fit the setting better than the other.
Still, I'd like to give those English voice actors some credit. I've actually seen/heard clips of them in action. It takes quite a lot of work to crunch in those words at the right moment without losing breath, while at the same time, having to act out certain words and phrases in the appropriate way. It's easy to lose breath and mess up words especially when you have a long text to read and when you have to speak fast in order to fit the movements of the mouth.
You gotta be grateful in some ways, I guess. Because without the English dubs, you wouldn't have other ways of watching the series. Everything would stick strictly to the Japanese language, and then you'd miss the opportunity to watch the whole thing in a different sort of setting/acting and what have you. Because like I said, one language might make a better interpretation and portrayal than the other.
Also, we'd have to consider those other languages that Anime is translated into. Gotta give credit to those voice actors as well.
It may seem that English dubbing (or what other languages out there) fails, but I'd like to think that it doesn't fail completely. However, I'd like to say this: The censoring fails every time. XP
Fact: The English dub of Naruto is extremely censored. In the Japanese version, characters swear all the time. In the English version, all you'll here is a 'blast it' or a 'darn'. They even went as far as turning Lee's sake and Drunken Master style into elixir and Loopy Fist!
Opinion: This censoring in the dub is pointless for a multitude of reasons.
Fantasy: Naruto is commonly watched by 8-year olds
Reality: Most Naruto fans are old enough to watch programs with swearing in them.
General Observation: Said fans usually can (and do) watch subtitled Japanese episodes, in doing so seeing all the cuss words the characters are really saying.
Personal Observation: When Kiba thought 'Darn!' hen he fought Ukon/Sakon, I knew that he was actually thinking 'Damnit!', despite never having seen the original subtitled Japanese version.
Assumption: Other fans could figure this out as well.
Conclusion: I find nothing wrong with the voices in the English dub of Naruto. I believe that each voice is just as well suited for the character as in the Japanese version, if not better. Indeed, the voice of Gaara was much more frightening in the English dub than in the Japanese. However, I am disgusted by not only misinterpitative translations, but the extreme amount of censorship. Naruto is clearly not a show for little kids (Parents do not let their 8 year olds watch shows where one of the main characters views killing as his purpose in existence, Gaara)and should not be treated like one.
Cartoon Network didn't voice Naruto. Viz did. Just pointing it out.
I love all the research you've done. You've obviously seen and compared a lot more anime than I have.
And you're right: we don't have to like the dubs, but we shouldn't hate them either. My friends are always complaining about how Prince of Tennis was very badly voiced and all that stuff, but I like to watch some of my animes in English. I love FUNimation's work. Yu Yu Hakusho was well done. And it sometimes gets annoying to always read the subtitles and then miss what's going on on the screen.
What's wrong with the old One Piece dub? The new voices suck bean bags if you ask me. The One Piece characters went from a unique piece of art to a bunch of DBZ rejects >.>
Ah... That was good.
And really, praise those that can speak both japanese and english.
I just started learning japanese and well... I die at least once a week.
I agree though, watching subs I find is much better. Though, there are a few dubs that are actually good. Like Death Note. Though the new Code Geass dub has some off voices. But definitly, there are huge differences. I'd like to see a direct dub though. XD
And here, in aussie land, those dark days have returned with One Piece. T_T
Excellent, SomeGuy. Those were some solid arguments that I'm sure many anime newcomers cannot fathom. It all flowed really well and made perfect sense.
...and points given for mentioning that horrific thing that was the first One Piece dub. Those were dark days indeed. *nodnodnod*
Lol well did you know that there are academies and voice acting classes in Japan just to get into voice acting? xD Here, in America, sure you might want to take drama lessons and maybe like a chorus lesson or something... but that's just it for us in America to get into voice acting. If you're lucky enough to get a role for a character in some series, then ta-da! You're a voice actor(in America)! xD But in Japan, you need to take classes just to get a job in it. I think that's why they do so much better since they have more experience while in America, you all just really need the "luck" and some drama lessons instead of some real voice acting lessons, you know?
I've always watched a lot of dubs in America and particularly, I love ADV's dubs-- the people always seem to match the people in the animes xD I liked Pokemon's dub cast too (not the newest one ;___;) and as well as DBZ, Cardcaptors... they killed it when I re-watched the first episode as I realized it o_o lol but you know, I grew up with those anime-- Tenchi Muyo! (xD when I was like 9-10 around there, I remembered watching it! =3) and Ruruoni Kenshin, mainly though with Pokemon, Sailor Moon, DB/Z, all the "classics." XD I don't think the voice actors were bad, they try hard and I can tell when they do and when they don't lol I know in Japan, their voices seem so awesome but then again, they've taken classes and there's just another natural ingredient in their language that make them seem so much "better" than American and other dub voice actors. =3
Oo Hm, I actually like the old One Piece dub D:_ I never saw the subs in the first place (since I had dial-up back then) but I thought the voices fit well, my brother thought so too.. ._.' even though a lot of people complained about them D:_
Aaryanna Mom
Title: Otakuite | Posted 05/20/08 | Reply
@nEcRo64x:
Not really, we disagree and it's clear that neither one of us is going to budge... so at this point I will agree that the discussion is over.
~Kathy
nEcRo64x
Title: Otakuite | Posted 05/19/08 | Reply
@Aaryanna Mom:
According to Netflix, in 1999 when the service started 5.3% of their movie rentals were foreign films; in 2006 it rose to 5.8%. It is pretty well known that foreign films do not perform well in the box offices in general; the numbers speak for themselves. Sure there are some breakout hits but generally foreign films do not get the audiences that Americans ones do. (Source: New York Times).
My view is anime, like movies, music, books and other media, is an art form. Dubbing anime comprises the integrity of the show and degrades its authenticity. Dubbing companies are taking the original voice actors of a show and replacing them for a new audience. Typically these companies are third party and aside from some advice from the original producers they make most of the voice acting decisions themselves. They sometimes remove cultural references and often use loose translations in order to make a show more appealing. If you are a purist then subbed anime with a literal translation is the only way to go in my opinion.
You seem to have intentionally misinterpreted most of what I said in order to prove your point. So I will go over what I originally said and compare it to your response:
I said: I stand by all my statements, subtitled anime is better and it is the only way to watch anime if you want an authentic experience.
Your reply: Wrong again, it is not the only way to watch anime, ever. To be honest, you're attempting to force your own one sided views on others as if they are the only possible one.
If you read what I said I did not say subbed is the only way to enjoy anime, I said it is the only way to enjoy anime if you want an authentic experience. Dubbing is not authentic.
I am allowed to have an opinion on dubbed voice acting even if it is different from yours. Also, you do not know the opinions of the people distributing anime in America. Dubbing companies are a business and they are trying to make money. They do not dub anime for fun; they do it so their product can reach a broader audience. If they left anime in its original form and just added English subtitles fewer people would buy it (I think you have already proven that).
This lecturing and cherry picking of my words has to stop because it is getting condescending. At this point you are not even supporting your side of the argument anymore. Instead you are resorting to personal attacks and accusations. By stating my opinion I am not forcing it on anyone, I am merely providing it.
Aaryanna Mom
Title: Otakuite | Posted 05/19/08 | Reply
@nEcRo64x:
I'm sorry I offended you but I was speaking for the general American audience. Americans usually do not like subtitled movies or black and white movies.
How about you provide some actual studies or statistics to back this claim? Having a handful of friends or talking to a others around a site such as theOtaku is far from being an accurate source to make the claim that the "general American audience" does not like a certain format. ^_~
I stand by all my statements, subtitled anime is better and it is the only way to watch anime if you want an authentic experience. If you want to subject yourself to poor voice acting and pay for it that is your choice.
Wrong again, it is not the only way to watch anime, ever. To be honest, you're attempting to force your own one sided views on others as if they are the only possible one.
You've also unfairly judged the voice acting of those who do dubbing as if only your opinion of the performance matters. I think you get the point that it is your opinion only and fortunately not one shared by those who produce the shows and DVD's for customers to buy.
~Kathy
Lee Owns
Title: Otakuite | Posted 05/13/08 | Reply
Totally agree... DEATH TO 4KIDS
nEcRo64x
Title: Otakuite | Posted 05/11/08 | Reply
@Aaryanna Mom:
I'm sorry I offended you but I was speaking for the general American audience. Americans usually do not like subtitled movies or black and white movies. I stand by all my statements, subtitled anime is better and it is the only way to watch anime if you want an authentic experience. If you want to subject yourself to poor voice acting and pay for it that is your choice.
Aaryanna Mom
Title: Otakuite | Posted 05/11/08 | Reply
@nEcRo64x:
Americans need to learn to read subtitles, if I could do it then you can. There are very rare cases where I like dubs. You are watching Japanese shows, they should be in Japanese, not English.
How very ignorant of the people's needs or even tastes that opinion really is. I have one very major objection to that line of reasoning and that would be to point out that many Americans (myself being one of them) suffer from vision issues that make keeping up with subtitles in a show next to impossible.
If not for dubbing I would no longer be able to keep up with any anime since unlike a computer where one can adjust the size of the text, subtitles often flash by far to quickly for one such as I to keep up.
For anyone who hates dubbing, get over it. It caters to a wide audience and helps to bring anime over to other countries in the first place. And it also serves the dual purpose of making it possible for someone like me to enjoy it.
~Kathy
lazyweird1
Title: Senior Otaku | Posted 05/10/08 | Reply
@ Markus Wolf
Dude, I totally hear what you're saying. The censors are ridiculous at times and editing the blood...Totally a waste. Thankfully that's what uncut box sets are for! =D The Hellsing dub and original are excellent in my opinion. Very nicely done. If anyone wants to complain about lame voice overs, they better not open their mouths again until they watch the REALLY REALLY OLD Astro Boy anime. Ugggh IiI If they didn't edit the dubs completely, I wouldn't be able to watch anime again or even come here. My parents are kinda strict about that... T_T
lazyweird1
Title: Senior Otaku | Posted 05/10/08 | Reply
I remember the first anime was either Speed Racer, Sailor Moon, or Ronin Warriors. Does anyone remeber RW? Man, yeah. Good times... I really appreciate your comment of english dubs without killing the poor companies with hate. Thanks. 4Krap was horrible, but I kinda liked Sanji's old english voice. It was annoying, but strangly adorable. That's just my opinion. Great job. I wonder what the D. Gray-Man dub would be like... =*_*=
gee-man
Title: Otakuite | Posted 05/10/08 | Reply
Totally agree with you. Glad someone decided to write about this. I mean honestly, how many anime fans here can seriously say that they got into anime because they watched the original Japanese? Probably not very many. Sure, a lot of people hate dubs, but without them, a lot of people would've never gotten into anime in the first place.
Besides, there are a few instances where the dubs are better than the subs in my opinion. Any iteration of Ghost in the Shell has proved how good english voice-actors can be. Some Ghibli movies sound better in english in my opinion as well. Both Cowboy Bebop and Samurai Champloo were very well done also. I remember watching some episodes of Samurai Champloo in Japanese, and it was one of the most alienating things I had ever seen. :P
jRockstar11385
Title: Otakuite | Posted 05/10/08 | Reply
…and then there’s the old One Piece, but I’m not even gonna go there…
I second that notion.
haseo luver92
Title: Senior Otaku | Posted 05/09/08 | Reply
omg, i think i suddenly have fallen in love. (JUST KIDDING!) no, but seriously, i just want to thank u. i'm not sure if u've read my only article on here, but i address (not quite as well, though) this very same topic. i'm a huuuge dub supporter, and while i like subs as well, i think dubs should be more appreciated. so thanks, and i totally agree with ur article. it's nice to know i'm not the only one that thinks this way.
haseo
Hikari Mogami
Title: Otaku Legend | Posted 05/07/08 | Reply
Ah! I agree,I agree! Not all Dubs are bad. and as it is fun watching anime in japanese smetimes you get too lazy to read subtitles. I know what you're talking about!^__^
shiroDragon
Title: Otakuite | Posted 05/05/08 | Reply
Wow Someguy. You never cease to astound me. I really read the whole thing intently! And I'm glad someone more experienced and knowledgable took up the job instead of someone like me (as I've thought about writing in defense and analysis of dubbing and subbing, though I would never have done such a bang up job).
You know, one of the most intriguing points for me was your observation about us criticizing the japanese pronunciations in english dubbed anime, but not the "engrish" in japanese dubbing. Really though, why is it we find "Ku-ri-su-masu" so enchanting compared to "sakura" with a heavy english accent? ...The wheels of the mind turn in bewilderment...
Yet another fine installment of knowledge Someguy. Thank you. I feel very enlightened. :D
cutepresea
Title: Otaku Legend | Posted 05/05/08 | Reply
I actually appreciate all the hard work that goes into translating an anime into English. Hard work it is, I know.
Anyway, yes, while it can be said that some English speakers' pronunciations of Japanese are quite hard to listen to, so are some Japanese speakers' English (Anyone remember that one episode of Nadesico? Sorry, Houko Kuwashima, I love you to death, but your Engrish is painful, sometimes).
Now as for One Piece...I don't think I'm gonna go there (I don't like either dub).
What I find almost inexcusable is editing anime (as you were mentioning with the whole "kill"/"destroy"/"stop" thing with Gundam Wing). That's worse than a bad dub on my list. But that's just my opinion.
On that note...40%. Haha. Thanks, you just taught me what the alcohol content of vodka is. Not that I needed to know, but if that question ever comes up, I'll know how to answer that.
Handarra
Title: Otakuite | Posted 05/04/08 | Reply
Wonderful article! *applauds* Though I admit that I've complained about dubs before, I agree that they're gradually getting better. There are now some instances where I prefer the English dub to the Japanese original (examples: Blood+, Death Note, and the Ghibli films).
Voicing is a lot harder than one would think. It's hard to emulate the original tone and meaning when you have a set amount of time in which to say the sentence. The differences in Japanese sentence structure and vocabulary only compound the problem, so the voice actors deserve credit (but thank God for Yuri).
Of course, I usually favor subs. The seiyuu are, for the most part, made of pure awesome. Just as there are instances where I like the English more, there are plenty of instances where I like the Japanese more, too. So you can't really make a blanket statement like "dubs suck" or that the voice actors don't match their characters, blah blah blah. You have to take each individual anime into perspective.
Speaking of perspective, I think that we'd appreciate what we've got a lot more if we watched the anime dubs of other languages--i.e. French, Italian, Chinese. Some of it's okay, but...seriously, Sasuke being voiced by a girl?
red tigress
Title: Senior Otaku | Posted 05/04/08 | Reply
Nice one! I lol'd when you threw in the "4 Kids should die" quote. I'm glad that you used evidence to back everything you said (not that you don't usually, but it sets a good example 'round these parts), and I'm glad you wrote this. I hate arguing with people about dubs vs. subs. Usually I just end up coming right back with "But the Cowboy Bebop dub is awesome." Hell, we watched Fullmetal Panic the 2nd Raid dubbed because the jokes were actually translated and made funnier to us as well. Even though Kagome's sidekick had an annoying as hell voice (where they try to make it unnecessarily high pitched like the Japanese ones) the rest was good.
Keep writin' about stuff like this, man. Hopefully people will listen. Then perhaps they'll listen to the rest of us too.
Lunar Rukario
Title: Senior Otaku | Posted 05/03/08 | Reply
Everyone has their own opinions about the voices and translations. Like how I argue with my friend how she pretty much loves the voices of any anime guy she likes ^^; There are some dubs I prefer like FMA and old Pokemon. But that aside it really depends on the eye of the beholder (or ear in this case...)
Though, the new Pokemon dub will always remain horrible to me -_-;
Calaya
Title: Team | Posted 05/03/08 | Reply
Being in the UK, we have very, very few anime on our television to begin with. Naruto hasn't been available to buy for that long and still the most widely televised anime is probably Pokemon. Thus, buying anime is really my only option, and in most cases I buy the whole series in its original state with subs.
I do have a few dubs though, and because they are 'big' anime they are done well (for example, Stand Alone Complex and the Ghibli films). However I also bought Sky Blue the other day, and a couple of the voice actors really don't match with their characters and they look completely out of sync. Probably the best for me is Chobits, I have the box set with both the sub and dub version, and the dub is edited only slightly and the voices are very much like the Japanese originals.
Usually, I am all for subs based on the fact most dubbed anime are also edited, sometimes heavily because of the target audience. However a couple of my box sets (Ouran High School Host Club for example) have been translated into English by people whos first language isn't English. Thus, I don't have a clue what they are saying as its Japanese, but the English subs are little help either!
nEcRo64x
Title: Otakuite | Posted 05/03/08 | Reply
Here is three things wrong with dubs:
1. The original director choose the original voice actors for a reason, dubbing is just a re-interpretation of an interpretation. The original vision often is lost.
2. Dubbing is just an excuse for anime companies to charge premium prices; $ 25-$30 a DVD with 6 to 7 DVDs in a series is very expensive.
3. Most dubs contain the same voice actors and since most of them don't have that much talent they just lend the same voice to so many characters the character looses some personality.
Americans need to learn to read subtitles, if I could do it then you can. There are very rare cases where I like dubs. You are watching Japanese shows, they should be in Japanese, not English.
SomeGuy
Title: Team | Posted 05/03/08 | Reply
@TwistedCyberChick:
What a fool! I don't know 'bout tomorrow,
What it's like to be,
Ahhh...
I was su'e! Couldn't let myself to go,
Even though I feel,
The ennnnnd...
Oh how I love Beck . . .
TwistedCyberChick
Title: Otakuite | Posted 05/02/08 | Reply
Wonderful arguing points, SomeGuy. People need to take a few breaths, relax, then give dubs a chance. It's a form of prejudice that people have, really. And I have to agree about the original Beck script. The Japanese performances of "Moon on the Water", while being emotional and well-done, are frickin' hilarious.
Erzengel Weiss
Title: Otakuite | Posted 05/02/08 | Reply
I'd have to admit that there are instances when I prefer the English dub over the Japanese dub. For me, I take importance to how well the series is portrayed and interpreted with respect to the context (genre, setting, plot). This is crucial because one language may fit the setting better than the other.
Still, I'd like to give those English voice actors some credit. I've actually seen/heard clips of them in action. It takes quite a lot of work to crunch in those words at the right moment without losing breath, while at the same time, having to act out certain words and phrases in the appropriate way. It's easy to lose breath and mess up words especially when you have a long text to read and when you have to speak fast in order to fit the movements of the mouth.
You gotta be grateful in some ways, I guess. Because without the English dubs, you wouldn't have other ways of watching the series. Everything would stick strictly to the Japanese language, and then you'd miss the opportunity to watch the whole thing in a different sort of setting/acting and what have you. Because like I said, one language might make a better interpretation and portrayal than the other.
Also, we'd have to consider those other languages that Anime is translated into. Gotta give credit to those voice actors as well.
It may seem that English dubbing (or what other languages out there) fails, but I'd like to think that it doesn't fail completely. However, I'd like to say this: The censoring fails every time. XP
Markus wolfe
Title: Otakuite | Posted 05/02/08 | Reply
Fact: The English dub of Naruto is extremely censored. In the Japanese version, characters swear all the time. In the English version, all you'll here is a 'blast it' or a 'darn'. They even went as far as turning Lee's sake and Drunken Master style into elixir and Loopy Fist!
Opinion: This censoring in the dub is pointless for a multitude of reasons.
Fantasy: Naruto is commonly watched by 8-year olds
Reality: Most Naruto fans are old enough to watch programs with swearing in them.
General Observation: Said fans usually can (and do) watch subtitled Japanese episodes, in doing so seeing all the cuss words the characters are really saying.
Personal Observation: When Kiba thought 'Darn!' hen he fought Ukon/Sakon, I knew that he was actually thinking 'Damnit!', despite never having seen the original subtitled Japanese version.
Assumption: Other fans could figure this out as well.
Conclusion: I find nothing wrong with the voices in the English dub of Naruto. I believe that each voice is just as well suited for the character as in the Japanese version, if not better. Indeed, the voice of Gaara was much more frightening in the English dub than in the Japanese. However, I am disgusted by not only misinterpitative translations, but the extreme amount of censorship. Naruto is clearly not a show for little kids (Parents do not let their 8 year olds watch shows where one of the main characters views killing as his purpose in existence, Gaara)and should not be treated like one.
Baka No Hanyou
Title: Otakuite | Posted 05/02/08 | Reply
Cartoon Network didn't voice Naruto. Viz did. Just pointing it out.
I love all the research you've done. You've obviously seen and compared a lot more anime than I have.
And you're right: we don't have to like the dubs, but we shouldn't hate them either. My friends are always complaining about how Prince of Tennis was very badly voiced and all that stuff, but I like to watch some of my animes in English. I love FUNimation's work. Yu Yu Hakusho was well done. And it sometimes gets annoying to always read the subtitles and then miss what's going on on the screen.
EtherForce
Title: Otakuite | Posted 05/02/08 | Reply
What's wrong with the old One Piece dub? The new voices suck bean bags if you ask me. The One Piece characters went from a unique piece of art to a bunch of DBZ rejects >.>
Purple Haze
Title: Senior Otaku | Posted 05/02/08 | Reply
Ah... That was good.
And really, praise those that can speak both japanese and english.
I just started learning japanese and well... I die at least once a week.
I agree though, watching subs I find is much better. Though, there are a few dubs that are actually good. Like Death Note. Though the new Code Geass dub has some off voices. But definitly, there are huge differences. I'd like to see a direct dub though. XD
And here, in aussie land, those dark days have returned with One Piece. T_T
Nehszriah
Title: Otaku Legend | Posted 05/02/08 | Reply
Excellent, SomeGuy. Those were some solid arguments that I'm sure many anime newcomers cannot fathom. It all flowed really well and made perfect sense.
...and points given for mentioning that horrific thing that was the first One Piece dub. Those were dark days indeed. *nodnodnod*
little inufan
Title: Otaku Legend | Posted 05/02/08 | Reply
Lol well did you know that there are academies and voice acting classes in Japan just to get into voice acting? xD Here, in America, sure you might want to take drama lessons and maybe like a chorus lesson or something... but that's just it for us in America to get into voice acting. If you're lucky enough to get a role for a character in some series, then ta-da! You're a voice actor(in America)! xD But in Japan, you need to take classes just to get a job in it. I think that's why they do so much better since they have more experience while in America, you all just really need the "luck" and some drama lessons instead of some real voice acting lessons, you know?
I've always watched a lot of dubs in America and particularly, I love ADV's dubs-- the people always seem to match the people in the animes xD I liked Pokemon's dub cast too (not the newest one ;___;) and as well as DBZ, Cardcaptors... they killed it when I re-watched the first episode as I realized it o_o lol but you know, I grew up with those anime-- Tenchi Muyo! (xD when I was like 9-10 around there, I remembered watching it! =3) and Ruruoni Kenshin, mainly though with Pokemon, Sailor Moon, DB/Z, all the "classics." XD I don't think the voice actors were bad, they try hard and I can tell when they do and when they don't lol I know in Japan, their voices seem so awesome but then again, they've taken classes and there's just another natural ingredient in their language that make them seem so much "better" than American and other dub voice actors. =3
Oo Hm, I actually like the old One Piece dub D:_ I never saw the subs in the first place (since I had dial-up back then) but I thought the voices fit well, my brother thought so too.. ._.' even though a lot of people complained about them D:_