In the thrilling animated film 'Duel Masters', the journey of a young and promising duelist named Shobu Kirifuda takes center stage. A mysterious organization has taken a keen interest in Shobu's unique ability to summon Duel Master creatures, which propels him into an exciting yet dangerous new world. As he navigates the challenges that come with being a fledgling duelist, Shobu is fueled not only by his ambition to master his skills but also by the desire to follow in the footsteps of his father, a renowned Duel Master himself. This pursuit becomes a test of his character as he forms bonds and pushes his limits in the competitive arena of Kaijudo.
Shobu's evolution as a duelist is underscored by his unwavering passion and the support of his loyal friends. Together, they navigate a series of intense dueling challenges that require not just strategies and skill, but also the heart to face formidable opponents and the courage to overcome personal hurdles. Each duel serves not only as a battle for victory but also as a learning experience that shapes Shobu into the master he aspires to be. The excitement of the dueling world is vividly brought to life, showcasing the remarkable creatures that add a spectacular visual and strategic element to the narrative.
As Shobu delves deeper into the world of dueling, he comes to realize that success is not merely about winning; it is about the journey, camaraderie, and the values he upholds. The film artfully weaves themes of friendship, perseverance, and self-discovery, resonating with audiences both young and old. With his eyes set on becoming the next Kaijudo master, Shobu Kirifuda's story inspires viewers to chase their dreams against all odds, proving that true mastery comes from the heart.
Ran for 21 seasons.
Main Cast of Duel Masters
Norio Wakamoto
Boy George (voice)
Norio Wakamoto lent his distinctive voice acting talents to the anime series 'Duel Masters,' where he brought a unique flair to his character by combining his signature deep, dramatic tone with an unexpectedly humorous delivery. His performance was widely praised by fans and critics alike for adding depth and charisma, making his character one of the memorable highlights of the show. What made Wakamoto's contribution stand out was his ability to infuse even the most serious lines with a playful intensity, creating a captivating and entertaining presence. A lesser-known behind-the-scenes fact is that during recording sessions, Wakamoto often improvised his lines, which led the directors to adjust scripts to incorporate his spontaneous and vibrant delivery, further enriching the show's dynamic.
Kan Tanaka
Dr. Root (voice)
Kan Tanaka lent his voice to the character Shobu Kirifuda in the original "Duel Masters" TV series, bringing a dynamic and passionate energy that resonated deeply with fans. His performance was praised for capturing the youthful enthusiasm and determination of the protagonist, which added an engaging layer to the show's storytelling. What made Tanaka's involvement unique was his ability to balance intense battle scenes with moments of heartfelt emotion, making his character relatable and memorable. A lesser-known fact behind the scenes is that Tanaka improvised several lines during recording sessions, many of which actually made it into the final episodes, showcasing his creative input and commitment to the role.
Kouichi Sakaguchi
Mikuni (voice)
Fans of Kouichi Sakaguchi will appreciate his role in 'Duel Masters' because it showcases his versatility and ability to bring animated characters to life with energetic and engaging voice work. Compared to his most iconic performance as Don Kanonji in 'Bleach', where he voices a comedic and eccentric spirit medium, his role in 'Duel Masters' allows him to explore a more serious and strategic character, adding depth and intensity to the show's battles. An interesting detail is that despite the fierce nature of his character in 'Duel Masters', Sakaguchi approached the role with the same light-hearted attitude that endears him to fans, balancing intensity with charm.
Yumiko Kobayashi
Katta Kirifuda (voice)
Ryuzou Ishino
Bucchake (voice)
Ryuzou Ishino provided the voice for the character Shobu Kirifuda in the TV anime 'Duel Masters.' This role was significant as it positioned him as the lead character in a popular children's series, showcasing his ability to bring energy and personality to a youthful protagonist. Compared to his earlier or more widely recognized roles, Ishino's performance in 'Duel Masters' stood out due to the show's focus on dynamic action and the vibrant, competitive world of card battles, allowing him to demonstrate a versatile range characterized by enthusiasm and determination. This contributed positively to his overall career by expanding his repertoire in voice acting, particularly within the shounen anime genre.
Katsuyuki Konishi
Knight (voice)
Eriko Hirata
Ben-chan (voice)
Crew of Duel Masters
Full backstage crew list →