Angel Heart, positioned within the drama genre, incorporates many classic elements such as intense personal struggles, complex character development, and emotional storytelling centered around themes of identity, memory, and redemption. Typical drama components present include the protagonist's internal conflict and a journey toward self-discovery amid adversities. What makes Angel Heart stand out from other drama titles is its unique blend of action and psychological depth set against the vibrant backdrop of Shinjuku. The story intertwines suspense and emotional poignancy, especially through the motif of a surrogate relationship between Glass Heart and the transformed Ryo Saeba, offering a fresh dynamic not just in character relations but also in the narrative tone compared to conventional dramas. This infusion of thriller elements and character-driven psychological tension elevates Angel Heart beyond standard drama fare.
Full Cast of Angel Heart
Yoko Asagami
Saeko Nogami (voice)
In the TV series 'Angel Heart,' Yoko Asagami played a supporting yet pivotal role that showcased her versatility beyond her earlier more prominent roles in action and drama genres during the 1980s. Known primarily for her work in classic Japanese television and film, 'Angel Heart' allowed her to delve into a contemporary setting blending action with emotional depth, marking a shift from her previous performances. This role stood out because it highlighted her mature acting skills and adaptability, moving away from the youthful characters she was known for. It enriched her overall career by demonstrating her ability to engage audiences in complex narratives, thus broadening her appeal and reaffirming her status as a seasoned actress.
Kazue Ikura
Kaori Makimura (voice)
Kazue Ikura voiced the character Saeko Nogami in the TV series 'Angel Heart.' This role fits into her extensive career as a versatile voice actress known for bringing depth and nuance to mature, complex female characters. In 'Angel Heart,' her portrayal of Saeko Nogami—a strong, determined, and multifaceted detective—showcased her ability to convey emotional strength and subtle vulnerability simultaneously. What made this performance stand out compared to her earlier or better-known works, such as her roles in "Detective Conan" or "Inuyasha," was the mature thematic content and dramatic intensity of 'Angel Heart.' This allowed Ikura to explore a more grounded and serious role, highlighting her skill in delivering compelling, character-driven performances that resonated deeply with the audience.
Akira Kamiya
Ryo Saeba (voice)
Akira Kamiya voiced the character Ryu Saeba in the TV series 'Angel Heart,' which is a spin-off of the popular manga and anime '
City Hunter.' This role allowed Kamiya to revisit a character closely tied to his earlier iconic work, reinforcing his status as a leading voice actor in action and drama genres. Unlike some of his earlier roles that were more youthful or energetic, such as those in 'City Hunter' or '
Fist of the North Star,' his performance in 'Angel Heart' showcased a more mature and nuanced portrayal, reflecting the character's depth and growth. This performance stood out by blending nostalgia with a fresh emotional complexity, highlighting Kamiya's versatility and longevity in the voice acting industry.
Chihiro Suzuki
Liu Xin-Hong (voice)
Fans of Chihiro Suzuki will likely enjoy their role in the TV series 'Angel Heart' because it showcases a compelling blend of emotional depth and action, allowing Suzuki to explore complex character traits that resonate with audiences. Compared to their most iconic performance, which might have highlighted a more straightforward or heroic persona, this role in 'Angel Heart' offers nuanced storytelling and a darker, more introspective side that adds layers to their acting repertoire. An interesting detail about their character in 'Angel Heart' is that despite the serious tone of the series, the character occasionally breaks the fourth wall, providing unexpected moments of humor and connection with the audience. Additionally, Suzuki was cast partly because of a chance encounter with the director at a local film festival, which led to a spontaneous audition—showing how serendipity plays a role in their career trajectory.
Mao Kawasaki
Glass Heart (voice)
Crew of Angel Heart
Full backstage crew list →