TLDR;
The Dub Talk podcast discusses the English dub of the anime "Demon Slayer," praising its solid direction, script writing, and voice acting. While some find it slightly sterile compared to other dubs, the overall consensus is positive, highlighting standout performances and faithfulness to the source material. The hosts also touch on the show's themes, animation, and character designs, making it a comprehensive review for both fans and newcomers.
- Solid direction, script, and voice acting
- Standout performances
- Faithfulness to the source material
Intro [0:01]
The speaker introduces the topic of the video, which is a discussion about the English dub of the anime "Demon Slayer." He humorously warns about spoilers and expresses his personal opinions, emphasizing that viewers are free to disagree. He also mentions his intention to kill tigresses and eat bacon, setting a lighthearted tone for the review.
Welcome to Dumb Talk [2:30]
The hosts introduce themselves and the show, "Dumb Talk," which focuses on English anime dubs. They announce that they will be discussing the dub for "Demon Slayer," a popular Shonen anime from 2019 and 2020. They also joke about the Japanese subtitle and the difficulty of translating the original name.
Guests Intro [3:41]
The host introduces the guests: Jet, Jamal, and Megan. They exchange jokes and discuss their roles in the podcast. The conversation shifts to the popularity of "Demon Slayer" and its manga's conclusion.
Demon Slayer Overview [5:30]
The host provides an overview of "Demon Slayer," explaining that it is set in the Taisho period in Japan, a time of modernization. The protagonist, Tanjiro, returns home to find his family murdered by demons, except for his sister Nezuko, who has been turned into a demon. A demon slayer encourages Tanjiro to join their ranks to protect his sister and find a way to turn her back into a human.
ADR Director and Scriptwriters [8:08]
The hosts introduce the ADR director, Steve Staley, known for directing "The Promised Neverland," and the scriptwriters, Kyle McCarley (first ten episodes) and Lucy and Dodge (back half). They briefly discuss Lucy and Dodge's work on "Bungo Stray Dogs," highlighting its unique and quirky elements.
General Dub Discussion [9:43]
The speakers discuss the overall quality of the "Demon Slayer" dub. They praise Steve Staley's direction and the performances of the voice actors, noting the mix of fresh and veteran talent. The script is described as faithful to the source material, with some added jokes. One host mentions that the dub is good but doesn't "wow" him, feeling a bit sterile. He prefers dubs that take more liberties and offer unique interpretations.
More Dub Discussion [11:37]
The hosts continue discussing the dub, praising Steve Staley's direction and the script by Kyle McCarley and Lucian Dodge. One host mentions a nitpick about a character, which will be explained later. Another host expresses that the dub is really good, enough to have pre-ordered the limited edition sets. However, he finds it doesn't "wow" him, feeling a bit sterile.
Sub vs Dub [13:03]
The speaker elaborates on his preference for the dub over the sub due to a specific performance in the subtitle version that he dislikes. He clarifies that he generally appreciates vocal variety and unique interpretations in dubs, rather than direct replications of the sub's performances. He also addresses unfair assumptions made about English actors based on limited trailer footage.
Writing and Overall Enjoyment [16:08]
The hosts praise the writing in the dub, particularly Lucian Dodge's work. While there are a few instances of stilted dialogue, the overall quality is high. One host compares it favorably to "Promise Neverland," noting that one performance could make it a top dub.
Solid English-Language Track [16:50]
The speaker expresses his enjoyment of the dub, highlighting the well-directed performances and strong writing. He believes the team put care into creating a solid English-language track, making it enjoyable for viewers who prefer not to read subtitles. He also mentions the beautiful animation by Ufotable, while noting some awkward CGI moments.
Awkward CGI Moments [17:54]
The hosts discuss awkward CGI moments in the anime, specifically mentioning the little brother spider and Tanjiro walking through the snow. One host points out a scene where Tanjiro's breathing animation looks like a YouTube poop CG model. They humorously speculate about the reasons behind these creative decisions.
Demon Slayer Corps [20:05]
The hosts transition to discussing the Demon Slayer Corps, acknowledging that many characters only appear briefly in the last few episodes. They list and describe several members, including Kagaya Ubuyashiki, Giyu Tomioka, Shinobu Kocho, Kyojuro Rengoku, Mitsuri Kanroji, Obanai Iguro, Sanemi Shinazugawa, Gyomei Himejima, Tengen Uzui, Muichiro Tokito, Kanao Tsuyuri, and Aoi Kanzaki.
Demon Slayer Corps Voice Actors [26:45]
The hosts reveal the voice actors for the Demon Slayer Corps members: Matthew Mercer as Kagaya Ubuyashiki, Johnny Yong Bosch as Giyu Tomioka, Erica Harlacher as Shinobu Kocho, Mark Whitten as Kyojuro Rengoku, Kira Buckland as Mitsuri Kanroji, Eric Scott Kimerer as Obanai Iguro, KG Tang as Sanemi Shinazugawa, Crispin Freeman as Gyomei Himejima, Ray Chase as Tengen Uzui, Griffin Burns as Muichiro Tokito, Zeno Robinson as Genya Shinazugawa, Brianna Knickerbocker as Kanao Tsuyuri, and Reba Buhr as Aoi Kanzaki.
Voice Acting Analysis [28:35]
The hosts analyze the voice acting performances of the Demon Slayer Corps members. They praise Reba Buhr's stern portrayal of Aoi Kanzaki, Matthew Mercer's soft yet firm delivery as Ubuyashiki, and Mark Whitten's loud and boisterous performance as Rengoku. They also comment on Kira Buckland's sweet portrayal of Mitsuri, Eric Scott Kimerer's snarky take on Obanai, and Crispin Freeman's emotional performance as Gyomei.
More Voice Acting Analysis [31:21]
The hosts continue analyzing the voice acting, praising Ray Chase as Tengen Uzui and Griffin Burns as Muichiro Tokito. They also commend Zeno Robinson's portrayal of Genya, noting his rough and intriguing character. KG Tang's performance as Sanemi is discussed, with comparisons to Bakugo from "My Hero Academia." Brianna Knickerbocker's portrayal of Kanao is also highlighted, noting her robotic demeanor and well-handled flashbacks.
Giyu and Shinobu [38:15]
The hosts focus on Johnny Yong Bosch as Giyu and Erica Harlacher as Shinobu. They praise Bosch's ability to convey Giyu's wisdom and seasoned nature, making Tanjiro's respect for him understandable. Harlacher's Shinobu is described as sweet yet sinister, with a balance of friendliness and bluntness. Her performance in the flashbacks is also highlighted.
Kanao and Other Characters [42:28]
The hosts discuss Brianna Knickerbocker as Kanao, noting her robotic portrayal and well-done flashbacks. They also briefly mention Griffin Burns as Muichiro Tokito and Reba Buhr as Aoi Kanzaki. The conversation shifts to Ray Chase as Tengen Uzui and Crispin Freeman as Gyomei, praising their performances despite limited screen time.
More Demon Slayer Corps Analysis [44:55]
The hosts continue discussing the Demon Slayer Corps voice actors, praising Eric Scott Kimerer as Obanai Iguro and Kira Buckland as Mitsuri Kanroji. They also commend Johnny Yong Bosch as Giyu Tomioka and Mark Whitten as Kyojuro Rengoku. The conversation shifts to Zeno Robinson as Genya Shinazugawa, highlighting his temperamental nature.
Shinobu and Kanao [47:56]
The hosts discuss Erica Harlacher as Shinobu Kocho, praising her sarcastic tone and the underlying sense of dread she conveys. They also mention Brianna Knickerbocker as Kanao Tsuyuri, noting her quiet nature and well-executed flashbacks.
Demon Spider Family [1:04:43]
The hosts transition to discussing the Spider Family, describing them as dysfunctional and well-designed. They list the members: Rui, the Father, the Mother, the Older Brother, and the Older Sister. They also mention the voice actors: Billy Kametz as Rui, Kellen Goff as the Father, Allegra Clark as the Mother, Derek Stephen Prince as the Older Brother, and Erica Lindbeck as the Older Sister.
Spider Family Voice Acting [1:08:18]
The hosts analyze the voice acting performances of the Spider Family. They start with Erica Lindbeck as the Older Sister, praising her portrayal of a victim. Derek Stephen Prince's bad voice for the Older Brother is also highlighted. Allegra Clark's performance as the Mother is commended for conveying her victimhood. Kellen Goff's unique voice for the Father is discussed, with comparisons to Stitch from "Lilo & Stitch."
Rui's Voice Acting [1:12:23]
The hosts focus on Billy Kametz's performance as Rui, praising his ability to convey the character's unsettling nature and abuser tactics. They discuss how Rui's backstory doesn't excuse his cruelty. The hosts also touch on the show's tendency to humanize villains before their deaths.
Spider Family Analysis [1:15:38]
The hosts continue analyzing the Spider Family, starting with Kellen Goff's unique voice for the Father. They praise Allegra Clark's ability to convey the Mother's youthful and worried nature. Derek Stephen Prince's performance as the Older Brother is also highlighted. Erica Lindbeck's portrayal of the Older Sister is commended for her scared and conniving demeanor.
Billy Kametz as Rui [1:19:30]
The hosts discuss Billy Kametz's performance as Rui, emphasizing his unnerving portrayal and the contrast between his mature voice and child-like appearance. They note how his actions and treatment of his "family" are disturbing. The hosts also touch on Rui's backstory and the show's tendency to humanize villains after death.
Spider Family Performances [1:21:12]
The hosts discuss the Spider Family's acting, calling it some of the best in the show. Kellen Goff is praised for his creepy monster voice, Allegra Clark for her heart-wrenching portrayal of the Mother, Derek Stephen Prince for his wacky performance as the Older Brother, and Erica Lindbeck for her convincing portrayal of the scared Older Sister. Billy Kametz is highlighted for his villainous performance as Rui.
Rui and Other Villains [1:32:36]
The hosts discuss Billy Kametz's performance as Rui, highlighting his viciousness and the unsettling contrast between his mature voice and child-like appearance. They also praise the performances of the other Spider Family members. The conversation shifts to other villains in the show, noting their unique qualities.
Urokodaki and Other Characters [1:33:31]
The hosts transition to discussing more friendly characters, including Sakonji Urokodaki, Sabito, Makomo, and Hotaru Haganezuka. They describe their roles and personalities, highlighting Urokodaki's mentorship, Sabito and Makomo's tragic secret, and Haganezuka's obsession with swords. The voice actors for these characters are also mentioned: Brook Chalmers as Urokodaki, Max Mittleman as Sabito, Ryan Bartley as Makomo, and Robbie Daymond as Haganezuka.
Urokodaki and Other Voice Actors [1:38:22]
The hosts analyze the voice acting performances of Urokodaki, Sabito, Makomo, and Haganezuka. They praise Brook Chalmers' portrayal of Urokodaki as a stern yet seasoned mentor. Max Mittleman and Ryan Bartley are commended for their roles as Sabito and Makomo, respectively. Robbie Daymond's comedic performance as Haganezuka is also highlighted.
Haganezuka and Other Characters [1:42:36]
The hosts continue discussing the voice acting, praising Robbie Daymond's comedic portrayal of Haganezuka. They also commend Brook Chalmers as Urokodaki, Max Mittleman as Sabito, and Ryan Bartley as Makomo. The conversation shifts to the characters' personalities and their roles in the story.
Sabito and Makomo [1:47:59]
The hosts discuss Max Mittleman as Sabito and Ryan Bartley as Makomo, noting their unfortunate secret. They praise Mittleman's performance as an angry Otsuchi and Bartley's charming portrayal of Makomo. The conversation shifts to Robbie Daymond as Haganezuka, highlighting his passionate dedication to swords.
Hotaru Haganezuka [1:50:57]
The hosts discuss Robbie Daymond's performance as Hotaru Haganezuka, praising his comedic delivery and the character's eccentric personality. They also commend Brooke Chalmers as Urokodaki, noting his somberness. The conversation shifts to Max Mittleman as Sabito and Ryan Bartley as Makomo, highlighting their roles as ghost children.
Tamayo and Yushiro [1:53:31]
The hosts transition to discussing Tamayo and Yushiro, two nicer demons who befriend Tanjiro. They describe Tamayo as a doctor who helps demons and is working on a way to turn them back into humans. Yushiro is described as a snarky but loyal assistant. The voice actors for these characters are also mentioned: Laura Post as Tamayo and Kyle McCarley as Yushiro.
Tamayo and Yushiro Voice Acting [1:56:03]
The hosts analyze the voice acting performances of Laura Post as Tamayo and Kyle McCarley as Yushiro. They praise Post's ability to convey Tamayo's kindness and businesslike persona. McCarley's portrayal of Yushiro as a snarky but flawed character is also highlighted.
Tamayo and Yushiro Analysis [1:58:59]
The hosts continue analyzing the voice acting, praising Laura Post as Tamayo and Kyle McCarley as Yushiro. They note Post's ability to match the character's faint but true nature. McCarley's portrayal of Yushiro as a clingy and bratty character is also highlighted.
Tamayo and Yushiro Discussion [2:01:44]
The hosts discuss Tamayo and Yushiro, praising Laura Post's performance as Tamayo and Kyle McCarley's portrayal of Yushiro. They highlight Yushiro's loyalty to Tamayo and his comedic interactions with Tanjiro. The hosts express their hope to see these characters again in the manga.
Muzan and His Demons [2:07:35]
The hosts transition to discussing Muzan Kibutsuji, the main antagonist, and his demons, Yahaba and Susamaru. They describe Muzan as a normal-looking man who wears a suit and has a family. Yahaba has the ability to make invisible arrows, while Susamaru uses jangly balls and has six arms. The voice actors for these characters are also mentioned: Greg Chun as Muzan, Xander Mobus as Yahaba, and Sarah Anne Williams as Susamaru.
Muzan and Demons Analysis [2:11:31]
The hosts analyze the voice acting performances of Greg Chun as Muzan, Xander Mobus as Yahaba, and Sarah Anne Williams as Susamaru. They praise Chun's ability to convey Muzan's sinister nature and smooth voice. Williams' portrayal of Susamaru as a loud and upbeat character is also highlighted.
Muzan and Susamaru Analysis [2:14:04]
The hosts continue analyzing the voice acting, praising Greg Chun as Muzan and Sarah Anne Williams as Susamaru. They note Chun's ability to convey Muzan's intimidating presence and Williams' energetic portrayal of Susamaru.
Muzan and His Subordinates [2:16:39]
The hosts discuss Greg Chun's performance as Muzan Kibutsuji, noting his subdued yet sinister portrayal. They also praise Xander Mobus as Yahaba and Sarah Anne Williams as Susamaru, highlighting their unique qualities.
Tanjiro and Other Leads [2:30:05]
The hosts transition to discussing the four leads: Tanjiro Kamado, Nezuko Kamado, Zenitsu Agatsuma, and Inosuke Hashibira. They describe their personalities and quirks, highlighting Tanjiro's kindness, Nezuko's demon abilities, Zenitsu's cowardice, and Inosuke's wild nature. The voice actors for these characters are also mentioned: Zach Aguilar as Tanjiro, Abby Trott as Nezuko, Aleks Le as Zenitsu, and Bryce Papenbrook as Inosuke.
Lead Voice Actors [2:36:45]
The hosts analyze the voice acting performances of the four leads. They start with Abby Trott as Nezuko, praising her ability to convey the character's emotions despite limited dialogue. Bryce Papenbrook's portrayal of Inosuke is also discussed, noting his wild and feral energy. Aleks Le's performance as Zenitsu is highlighted, with comparisons to Hiroshi Kamiya. Zach Aguilar's portrayal of Tanjiro is also mentioned, noting his solid performance.
Inosuke and Zenitsu [2:38:59]
The hosts continue analyzing the voice acting, praising Bryce Papenbrook's portrayal of Inosuke and Aleks Le's performance as Zenitsu. They note Papenbrook's ability to convey Inosuke's wild energy and Le's skill in capturing Zenitsu's self-loathing.
Tanjiro and Other Leads Analysis [2:45:40]
The hosts discuss Zach Aguilar's portrayal of Tanjiro, noting that it took some time to warm up to his performance. They praise his ability to convey Tanjiro's kindness and sincerity. The hosts also commend Abby Trott as Nezuko, Bryce Papenbrook as Inosuke, and Aleks Le as Zenitsu.
Final Thoughts [3:21:54]
The hosts share their final thoughts on "Demon Slayer" and its English dub. They praise the series' atmosphere, characters, and animation. The dub is described as a solid production, with impressive performances. The hosts also discuss their personal preferences and the show's overall impact.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations [3:26:15]
The hosts continue sharing their final thoughts, recommending "Demon Slayer" to viewers. They praise the show's animation, music, and story. The dub is described as a very good production, making the series watchable. The hosts also encourage viewers to make their own judgments about the show and to avoid being elitist.
Social Media and Patreon [3:33:43]
The hosts share their social media handles and promote their Patreon. They thank their patrons for their support. The hosts also mention that they sometimes stream games and are on Tumblr, though they don't really use it.
Outro and Story Time [3:34:56]
The hosts share their social media information and then one of the hosts tells a story about Natsuki Hanae, the Japanese voice actor for Tanjiro, being blocked by the official Demon Slayer Twitter account.