Penguindrum

Penguindrum originally aired in 2011 and was created by Kunihiko Ikuhara, known for his distinctive and symbolic storytelling. Upon release, it garnered mixed to positive reviews; audiences praised its unique narrative, intricate symbolism, and emotional depth, though some found its style dense and challenging to follow. Over the years, Penguindrum's reputation has grown significantly. It is now widely regarded as a cult classic, celebrated for its bold artistic vision and complex themes exploring fate, family, and societal issues. Fans and critics alike appreciate it as an underrated gem that rewards attentive viewing and thoughtful interpretation, solidifying its status as a standout work in modern anime storytelling.

Main Cast of Penguindrum

Subaru Kimura delivers a compelling voice performance as Kanba Takakura in the TV series 'Penguindrum,' balancing the character's complex mix of charm, determination, and underlying darkness. Unlike his more playful and energetic roles in anime such as Katsuki Bakugo in 'My Hero Academia,' Kimura channels a deeper emotional range and nuanced subtlety in Kanba, capturing the character's intricate motivations and tragic elements effectively. A trivia fact about Kimura is that he is also a hip-hop artist, which adds a unique rhythm and flow to his vocal performances, enhancing the expressiveness of characters like Kanba Takakura.

Ryohei Kimura voiced the character Shoma Takakura in the TV anime series 'Penguindrum.' This role was significant in his career as it showcased his ability to portray complex and emotionally nuanced characters, a step beyond some of his earlier work that often featured lighter or more straightforward roles. 'Penguindrum' is known for its unconventional narrative and deep psychological themes, and Kimura's performance captured the conflicted and determined nature of Shoma with subtlety and intensity. This role stood out compared to his better-known roles due to the series' unique blend of surreal storytelling and character depth, allowing Kimura to demonstrate a wider emotional range and a more mature voice acting style.

Akira Ishida voices the character Kanba Takakura in the TV anime 'Penguindrum.' This role marks a significant point in his career by showcasing his ability to portray complex, nuanced characters. Unlike some of his earlier or more famous roles that often feature more straightforward or archetypal characters, Kanba Takakura is layered with moral ambiguity and emotional depth, which allowed Ishida to display a wider range of subtle vocal expressions and psychological intensity. This performance stands out because it highlights his versatility and skill in handling intricate character development, reinforcing his reputation as a talented voice actor capable of bringing multifaceted personalities to life.

Mamiko Noto delivers a captivating and nuanced performance as Yuri Tokikago in "Penguindrum," showcasing her ability to convey complex emotions through delicate vocal work. Compared to her roles in series like "Nodame Cantabile" where she portrays gentle and serene characters, her work as Yuri embodies a blend of mystery and vulnerability that adds depth to the narrative. A notable trivia fact is that Mamiko Noto is renowned for her distinctive soft-spoken voice, which has made her a popular choice for both anime and video game characters seeking a soothing yet expressive tone.

Crew of Penguindrum