مقابلة جانكو مؤدية صوت ناروتو
The Last: Junko Takeuchi Interview
Interview with Naruto’s voice actor, Junko Takeuchi, from the program guide from The Last. As always, a big thanks to rieriebee for scanning. There was some controversy over one part of this interview. That part wascleared upby OrganicDinosaur, for those who want to see another take on that bit. (A translation of the full interview had not been done at that point, which is why I did this now.)
Q: What were your first thoughts when you read the script?
A: It’s a story with kind of a philosophical feeling that “beginnings are ending, and endings are beginnings,” where you can feel hope for the future, so I felt happy to take part in such a production. Another thing I felt this time was that it reminded me of “The Tale of the Gutsy Ninja,” the autobiographical novel that Jiraiya-sensei wrote. Even though Jiraiya-sensei isn’t here, I could feel all over again that the generation was changing, and his will was being passed on.
Q: How was the love story with Hinata?
A: I hadn’t gotten that sense at all until now, but I thought “I would be happy if it did turn out that way,” so I was surprised because I didn’t think it would be introduced like “da-da-dan-daaan” in the form of a movie.
Q: We thought that the scene where Naruto confesses to Hinata on his own was one of the big highlights.
A: Out of everything in this movie, I think that’s the part where we see the most of Naruto having grown up. But while playing him, I had this feeling like I was his auntie (laughs). I felt like “I peeked at my nephew’s first confession, what should I do?” (laughs).
Q: Having played Naruto for such a long time, what do you think has changed about him?
A: I think it’s his sense of security. I think Naruto was starved for love because he was always feared in the eyes of other people. As that gradually went away, at first he would get flustered and couldn’t believe it, but now he can accept it, so he’s at peace. It’s because of this that he’s started to look like an adult. But I think his nature hasn’t changed.
Q: What scene was the most enjoyable to play this time?
A: Honestly, all of it was enjoyable, yet equally heart-breaking. However, it’s through the heart-breaking things that we get to know a person’s character, and it was enjoyable to experience that. That’s what I mean by all of it was enjoyable. But the confession scene was awkward (laughs).
Q: What points do you wish for those watching the movie to see?
A: I can’t think ordinarily of watching two years into the future. I was extremely happy to have been able to see that. Even though I feel happy that all of the viewers will also get a glimpse of two years later, even though they get to see what’s changed and feel the theme of being connected with love in the future from here on out, I want everyone to remember the very beginning!

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