Are you a fan of the Pom Poko dub, or do you prefer the original Japanese with subtitles? Let the battle of the shape-shifters begin in the comments.
To make the environmental message hit home, the human characters must feel real. pom poko english dub cast
For decades, Studio Ghibli has captivated global audiences with its lush animation and profound storytelling. While films like Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro received immediate international acclaim, some Ghibli gems took longer to find their Western audience. One such film is Isao Takahata’s 1994 environmental epic, Pom Poko (Heisei Tanuki Gassen Ponpoko). Are you a fan of the Pom Poko
Do not let the raccoon testicles fool you. Pom Poko is a devastating film. And thanks to the powerhouse cast of Simmons, Posehn, Brown, LaMarche, and Richardson, the English dub captures every ounce of that devastation—while still making you laugh at a giant magical raccoon sack. It is, without hyperbole, one of the most unique voice acting ensembles in Ghibli’s library. For decades, Studio Ghibli has captivated global audiences
David’s voice possesses a Shakespearean quality; it is deep, resonant, and authoritative, yet capable of great warmth. He does not merely read the text; he performs it like an oral history. When the film shifts from comedic slapstick to the melancholy reality of the tanuki’s dwindling habitat, David’s narration provides the emotional through-line. For many fans, his performance is the defining element of the English dub, elevating the film from a "kids' movie about raccoons" to a serious ecological parable.
Richardson’s performance as Gonta is a masterclass in voice acting. He imbues the character with a rough, blustering energy that is simultaneously intimidating and comical. Gonta is a character who oscillates between being a fierce warrior and a comedic foil, and Richardson navigates this tightrope perfectly. His booming voice gives weight to the tanuki’s anger, making their crusade against the developers feel justified and desperate.