The popular anime “ Overlord ,” produced by
Madhouse, debuted on Japanese television in July 2015, and has since cemented
itself as one of the most beloved series within the isekai genre. Now, nearly ten
years after that premiere, voice actor Satoshi Hino, who plays protagonist
Suzuki Satoru/Ainz Ooal Gown, has shared his thoughts on why the series
continues to resonate both in Japan and internationally.
Based on the light novels created by Kugane Maruyama
and illustrated by So-Bbin, “Overlord” falls under the “world transfer”
subgenre of isekai. This subgenre typically features main
characters who, after dying, are transported to a fictional world, usually from
a video game or TV show. In a recent interview with Mantan Web, Hino
reflected on his experience bringing to life Ainz Ooal Gown, a skeletal warrior
who, prior to his rebirth in the world of YGGDRASIL, was simply an office
worker in the real world.
Unlike many other isekai series, “Overlord” stands out
for its focus on dark fantasy, a more sombre style reminiscent of popular
titles like Jujutsu Kaisen. In its early stages, Hino had doubts about whether
the anime would be well-received. “ It’s a dark fantasy centered
around characters who, in many other fantasy works, would be considered
villains. Also, it was one of the pioneers in the ‘isekai’ genre, so at first I
wondered if many people would accept it. However, it’s a really interesting
work, and I thought that if people watched it, they would be hooked ,”
the actor commented.
Like other isekai anime, Overlord begins with a
protagonist who is taken from his ordinary life into a new and exciting world. However, what
sets Overlord apart is that Ainz, the main character, is morally ambiguous,
frequently crossing the line between good and evil. Despite his conquests and
questionable actions, Hino maintains that Ainz is a leader with a great weight
on his shoulders. “ He is a leader who protects his family, meaning
everyone in Nazarick. Also, a key aspect is how Suzuki, the man he was before
becoming Ainz, is influenced by his subordinates, and how his personality is
slowly eroded by Ainz as he faces the conflicts he brings with him. I try to
reflect those nuances in my acting,” Hino explained.
One of Overlord’s strengths, according to Hino, is how
the series explores human psychology in a very deep way. “ What’s
interesting about the work is how the conversations are carefully crafted to
show the hidden emotions behind the characters’ words and actions. It’s
fascinating to see how they try to decipher each other’s true intentions and
negotiate accordingly. On top of that, it has the majesty and power of a
classic fantasy. It’s both serious and comedic, and from the beginning I
thought it was interesting how the two elements wove together so well ,”
he noted.
With four seasons already aired, Overlord is preparing
for the premiere of its third film, titled “Overlord the Movie: The Sacred
Kingdom.” The plot of this new installment focuses on the
Sacred Kingdom of Oak, which faces an invasion by the Demon Emperor Jaldabaoth
and his army of demi-humans. Faced with this threat, Holy Princess Calca
requests the help of Ainz and the forces of Nazarick.
In the interview, Hino highlighted some of the
elements that will make this film an exciting experience for fans. “ The
intensity of the battles, the streets of the Sacred Kingdom, and the
differences in atmosphere between this kingdom and the Sorcerer Kingdom, where
Nazarick is located, will look even more impressive on the big screen… I hope
that many people will enjoy the film ,” said the actor.
Source: MantanWeb
