TLDR;
This episode of Dub Talk celebrates the five-year anniversary of the podcast by discussing the English dub of "Kiki's Delivery Service." The hosts share their personal connections to the film, praise the voice acting, and examine the cultural impact of the dub on Western audiences. They highlight the voice cast, including Kirsten Dunst and Phil Hartman, and explore the film's themes of growing up and finding one's place in the world.
- The dub is praised for its natural dialogue and casting choices.
- The film's themes of growing up and finding one's place in the world are discussed.
- The cultural impact of the dub on Western audiences is explored.
Disclaimer [0:00]
The hosts introduce "Dub Talk Delivery Service" with a humorous disclaimer, stating that the content may contain mature language, spoilers, and opinions that do not necessarily reflect the views of the service as a whole.
Start [1:12]
The hosts introduce themselves and the topic of the episode: the English dub of "Kiki's Delivery Service." Xena Warrior Princess explains why she chose this dub, highlighting its personal significance and the film's ability to resonate with audiences of all ages. She appreciates the movie's message about growing up, adapting to the world, and retaining childlike wonder. The hosts also touch on Miyazaki's love for flying and how it is represented in his films.
ADR Staff [17:08]
The hosts discuss the ADR director and scriptwriter of the English dub, Jack Fletcher, and co-writer John Semper. Noah provides background on Jack Fletcher's work in television animation, noting his involvement in shows like "Powerpuff Girls" and "Sonic Boom". The dub is described as a mix of high-profile and experienced animation voice actors, suggesting Disney's commitment to the project. The script and directing are praised for their natural feel and timeless quality.
Kiki's Parents [28:30]
The hosts discuss the voice actors for Kiki's parents: Kath Soucie as Kiki's mom and Jeff Glenn Bennett as Kiki's dad. Noah shares their extensive experience in animation, citing roles such as Lola Bunny and Johnny Bravo. They praise the casting choices, noting how Soucie and Bennett effectively portray the characters' maternal and paternal qualities. Roots appreciates their interactions with Kiki and their portrayal of doting parents concerned about their daughter's journey.
Kiki's Customers [37:38]
The hosts discuss the voice actresses for Madame and Barsa, two elderly women Kiki meets and helps: Debbie Reynolds as Madame and Edie McClurg as Barsa. They note Reynolds' and McClurg's extensive careers in Disney films and television. While Reynolds' performance is considered fitting but not particularly outstanding, McClurg's unique voice and comedic timing are praised. Roots appreciates the characters' realism and their memorable interactions with Kiki.
Kiki's Friends [47:57]
The hosts discuss the voice actors for Asano, Ursula, and Tombo: Tress MacNeille as Asano, Janeane Garofalo as Ursula, and Matthew Lawrence as Tombo. Noah praises MacNeille's versatility and natural-sounding voice, while noting Garofalo's more celebrity-like performance. Matthew Lawrence's portrayal of Tombo is appreciated for capturing the character's goofy and naive nature. Roots highlights the characters' roles in Kiki's journey and their individual quirks.
Kiki & Jiji [1:08:52]
The hosts discuss the voice actors for Kiki and Gigi: Kirsten Dunst as Kiki and Phil Hartman as Gigi. Noah praises Dunst's youthful energy and range, while highlighting Hartman's dry, sarcastic portrayal of Gigi. Roots appreciates the comedic dynamic between Kiki and Gigi, noting Hartman's rapid-fire delivery and Dunst's ability to convey both peppy and sullen emotions. Xena Warrior Princess emphasizes the importance of these two characters to the film's success.
Final Thoughts [1:21:15]
The hosts share their final thoughts on the English dub of "Kiki's Delivery Service." Xena Warrior Princess expresses her personal connection to the film and its influence on her interest in voice acting. Noah emphasizes the film's strong emotional core and its significance in introducing Ghibli's canon to the West. Roots appreciates the film's comfy European setting and its message about rekindling one's passions.
Patreon [1:28:56]
The hosts give a shout-out to their Dub Talk patrons, thanking them for their support in making special episodes like this possible. They encourage listeners to check out the Studio Ghibli catalog on Netflix and other streaming services. They also recommend watching films from all over the world and encourage viewers to be safe and watch anime.