Entermix magazine, February 20, 2017
Yamato launches in a story of “love” once again
The latest 7-chapter work to reboot the greatest masterpiece in a new interpretation
From 2012-2014, Space Battleship Yamato 2199 made a strong Yamato impression on the new age through theatrical screenings and a TV broadcast. The sequel begins in theaters. Writer Harutoshi Fukui (of Mobile Suit Gundam UC) creates a completely new work that depicts an interpretation of the famous movie masterpiece Farewell to Yamato, Soldiers of Love (released in 1978). Three years after Yamato returns to Earth, a magnificent story with “love” as its theme depicts a space fleet battle unique to Yamato over seven chapters. Let’s launch on this new voyage with two people who speak from their hearts about the Yamato soul.
The sense of a real voice acting debut while participating as a cast member
Interview with Sayaka Kanda
Interviewer: What kind of image do you have of Space Battleship Yamato?
Kanda: It’s an image of men in the generation above mine singing the theme song in karaoke. (Laughs) I thought it was an anime for men, and had not seen it up to now. When it was decided that I would play Teresa, everyone told me “It’s an important role” and whenever I see that pose of her praying I’m surprised by the passion of the Yamato generation for her. The tension increases at the same time.
Interviewer: Teresa is a goddess in this story. How did you take in that image?
Kanda: I was at a loss when Director Habara said he wanted me to deliver “divinity.” (Laughs) I performed my own ideal image of Teresa, but the more I tried to express her urgent feelings the more they became like human emotions. In the end, I settled down into a place where I could play her calmly. I’ve had many positive and bright characters so far, but I’m happy to feel a new quieter aspect through Teresa.
Interviewer: It seems that you recorded your line with other cast people present.
Kanda: That’s right. So far, my voice recordings have mostly been separated, so as a member of the cast I was delighted to be able to participate in the same place with them. It gave me the feeling that it was my voice acting debut. It’s a very harmonious and unified site, and I want to get familiar with this team as soon as possible.
Interviewer: But because it’s the role of a goddess, you don’t get very involved with Kodai and the others.
Kanda: For the moment. Teresa in Farewell and Yamato 2 are subtly different in their roles, so I have no idea what will happen this time. I think you can show various faces as an actor when you have dialogue and romance with others, but on the other hand, I have to stay a goddess to the end, so it’s complicated. Above all, it is my hope that the fans of Teresa will be satisfied.
Interviewer: It has only just started, but what kind of work do you think it will be?
Kanda: I heard from the director that the staff is making the classical Yamato parts very carefully, and I think the longtime fans will enjoy it. If I can rub up against the ability of this cast and experience a change in chemistry that will brighten the work even a little, nothing would make me happier.
Despite sometimes burning out, get ready to board Yamato!
Interview with Diasuke Ono
Interviewer: Please tell us your feeling about getting involved with Yamato again.
Ono: The first thing that came to my mind was, “Are you sure you want to do it?” When we returned to Earth in 2199, I was really relieved. Because I played the main character in this masterpiece, I was able to fulfill my mission and there was great relief in finally being able to put down the burden. The feeling of getting on the ship while being guided by a new mission from a burned-out state was the same as Kodai in this story.
Interviewer: Three years have passed since the return to Earth. How did you feel about Kodai’s growth and change?
Ono: Personally, I didn’t think he changed. Now that the Earth is peaceful on the surface, he seems to have matured a little, but as soon as I heard the voice of Teresa, the old reckless rush came out and I thought, “Oh, it’s started.” (Laughs)
Interviewer: The daily lives of two people is depicted in Kodai and Yuki’s driving date, too.
Ono: Yuki takes the initiative and Kodai follows, and it seems that this is essentially the atmosphere of their relationship. But there seems to have been a trial development of “love” between them, and while performing it I was like, “Let’s at least flirt a little before it’s too late!” (Laughs) By throwing away such a happy life while trying to get on board Yamato, Kodai is still not “stable,” he’s a man who lives for a “mission.”
Interviewer: Do you and Kodai have anything in common?
Ono: I’m also sort of a reckless type. (Laughs) When casting was first announced, I was often told that the casting was reversed with Mr. Suzumura in the role of Daisuke Shima. Mr. Suzumura’s character is the hot-blooded one, and I seem to have the strong, cool-character image. I’m the one to jump in even if I know I’m going to lose. (Laughs) Therefore, I can very much understand Kodai’s feeling when being called for help by Teresa.
Interviewer: It seems that it will be a long voyage again with seven chapters in all.
Ono: Because it’s different from the original stories Farewell and Yamato 2, I cannot read ahead and my heart is pounding. Along with the mechanic and SF depictions that are the real thrill of Yamato, I think it’s a work for all anime fans. Mr. Fukui has said “I wouldn’t make a story of despair without love,” and I want to charge forth like Kodai with belief in those words.