Japanese vs. English Dubbed Anime

Okay, this is not an argument over which is better, the English dub or the original Japanese language anime. Rather, this is a mere comparison based on my observation after watching both versions. I have noted one very glaring difference between the two in the way the script is delivered, and now I understand why most people used to watching anime in Japanese seem to hate English dubs.

Lovely Complex Kiss Scene

I have observed that the characters in the Japanese version tend to speak in a quick and forceful manner, often exaggerating lines. (I guess that's how the Japanese normally talk?) In the English dub, however, the characters speak in a calmer, more normal manner. (Normal in English speaking countries, that is.) Being used to watching anime English dubbed, my initial reaction after watching Loveless, Special A, and Lovely Complex in Japanese was that the characters were overacting, over-dramatic, or too noisy. It kind of reminded me of a cheesy afternoon radio drama. On the other hand, those used to watching anime in Japanese would probably find the English dubs bland and lifeless.

So I guess it boils down to your preference. I for one still prefer watching anime English dubbed (You can read why here: English Dubs vs Subs), although I'll have to start watching anime in Japanese more frequently from now on since I am trying to learn Japanese. :)

Special A: My First Non-English Dubbed Anime

Special A

Today marks a momentous event in my life: I watched non-English dubbed anime for the first time! Haha! I didn't have a choice, actually. I really wanted to watch the anime Special A after finishing the manga, but it doesn't have an English dub yet. So I had to make do with English subs. It wasn't bad. My only complaint was that I had to sit up close to the computer to be able to read the subtitles instead of lying down on the bed like I usually do while watching anime. And there were times when I thought the Japanese voice actors were a bit overdramatic and too over the top, kind of reminding me of a cheesy radio drama, but I didn't let it bother me too much.

But what surprised me was that I could already understand a teeny tiny little bit of Japanese! Nihongo ga sukoshi wakarimasu. (Translation: I understand a little Japanese.) Hehe. I've been doing Pimsleur's Japanese I. Overall, the experience was an enjoyable one. I will most definitely do it again. However, I would still choose English dubs over subs if already available. :) Nothing beats anime in bed. Haha...

Now on to the next anime!