Overlord pioneered isekai, they say

The popular anime "Overlord," produced by Madhouse, debuted on Japanese television in July 2015, and has since established itself as one of the most beloved series within the isekai genre. Now, nearly ten years after that premiere, voice actor Satoshi Hino, who plays the protagonist Suzuki Satoru/Ainz Ooal Gown, has shared his thoughts on why the series continues to resonate both in Japan and internationally.

Based on the light novels created by Kugane Maruyama and illustrated by So-Bbin, "Overlord" falls under the isekai subcategory of "world transfer." This subgenre usually shows main characters who, after dying, are transported to a fictional world, usually from a video game or a series. In a recent interview with Mantan Web, Hino reflected on his experience bringing to life Ainz Ooal Gown, a skeletal warrior who, prior to his rebirth in the world of YGGDRASIL, was simply an office worker in the real world.

Unlike many other isekai series, "Overlord" stands out for its focus on dark fantasy, a more somber style reminiscent of popular titles like Jujutsu Kaisen. In its early stages, Hino had doubts about whether the anime would be well received. "It's a dark fantasy focused on characters who, in many other fantasy works, would be considered villains. Also, he was one of the pioneers in the 'isekai' genre, so at first I wondered if many people would accept him. However, it's a really interesting play, and I thought if people saw it, they'd be hooked," the actor said.

Like other isekai anime, Overlord kicks off with a protagonist who is taken from his ordinary life to a new and exciting world. However, what sets Overlord apart is that Ainz, the main character, is morally ambiguous, frequently crossing the line between good and evil. Despite his conquests and questionable actions, Hino maintains that Ainz is a leader with a great weight on his shoulders. "He is a leader who protects his family, that is, everyone in Nazarick. In addition, a key aspect is how Suzuki, the man he was before he was Ainz, is influenced by his subordinates, and how his personality is gradually eroded by Ainz as he faces the conflicts he carries with him. I try to reflect those nuances in my performance," Hino explained.

One of Overlord's strengths, according to Hino, is how the series explores human psychology in a very deep way. "What's interesting about the play is how the conversations are carefully designed to show the emotions hidden behind the characters' words and actions. It's fascinating to see how they try to decipher each other's true intentions and negotiate accordingly. On top of that, it has the majesty and power of a classic fantasy. It's both serious and comical, and from the beginning I thought it was interesting how the two elements intertwined so well," she said.

With four seasons already aired, Overlord is preparing for the premiere of its third film, titled "Overlord the Movie: The Sacred Kingdom". The plot of this new installment focuses on the Sacred Kingdom of Oak, which faces an invasion by the Demon Emperor Jaldabaoth and his army of demi-humans. Faced with this threat, Princess Saint Calca requests the help of Ainz and Nazarick's forces.

In the interview, Hino highlighted some of the elements that will make this film an exciting experience for fans. "The intensity of the battles, the streets of the Holy Kingdom, and the differences in atmosphere between this realm and the Sorcerer Kingdom, where Nazarick is located, will look even more impressive on the big screen... I hope many people enjoy the movie," said the actor.

Source: Mantan Web