Naruto is undeniably one of those enduring anime series that can reside in the back of one’s mind. The character’s enduring and iconic nature has allowed younger generations to embrace the same character that many of us have known since 2002.
Naruto’s voice actress, Maile Flanagan has had the unique privilege of portraying a character that literally grows up over the course of the story.
Her insights into how Naruto has impacted both fans and herself after all these years are undoubtedly fascinating and resonant with the enduring influence of this beloved series.
In a conversation with Flanagan, she touched upon the idea that animated characters often remain the same age throughout their runtime. Naruto, however, undergoes a remarkable transformation, evolving from a spirited child into an adult with a family of his own and Flanagan has been part of that journey the entire time.
Maile Flanagan Loved the Time-skip Part
In the interview with Crunchyroll, Maile Flanagan was asked about her experience of portraying a character who has genuinely matured over the span of 20 years. She responded:
What’s extraordinary is that cartoon characters don’t always, or often, hardly ever grow up. As an actor, it’s so great to be able to play those different mindsets, ages and emotions that go along with it. The 20 year thing is kind of mind-blowing. We used to joke about it, Elizabeth McGlynn and I. I was like “Will we do this in 20 years?” Then it’s like…we are. [laughs] [McGlynn] is not directing [Naruto] anymore.
She continues:
She directs a lot of stuff, but not [Naruto anymore]. The other directors, Susie and Ryan, hats off to them, because I think of Suzy is newer, and I’ve been working with her forever. And then I think Ryan is newer and he’s been at the studio 10 years now. There was no sense of time with Naruto.
She also added that she loves the time-skip and the jump they did, which was important for the character’s development, especially the protagonist who was a spoiled brat before the time-skip.
Maile Flanagan’s Transition in Naruto’s Tone
During the interview, the interviewer inquired about any adaptations or changes Maile Flanagan had to make in her portrayal of Naruto as an adult in Boruto, in comparison to when he was a child. As the creators and writers had to implement several modifications to his character due to his substantial growth and development throughout the series, which had a profound influence on his personality and the responsibilities he undertook.
She elaborated, saying:
Well, I try and be a little more stern. A little more emotionally stern, I guess. A little more emotionally grounded. The first several episodes of BORUTO, not gonna lie, there was a lot of me lecturing. I was like, “Is this how it is?” Then that stopped and it got to be very adventuresome, fun and interesting. I got to do some fighting again, which was fantastic. And some really emotional stuff.
She said that in Boruto’s early episodes, she started with a serious approach but saw the show’s tone shift towards adventure and enjoyable storytelling. She loved the thrilling battles and emotional depth her character could explore.
Also Read: Top 5 Most Expensive Anime Shows of All Time Does Not Have One Piece or Naruto
Source: Crunchyroll
