CATDOLL: Japanese media interviews "Pokemon" voice actor Rika Matsumoto on how to become Satoshi

The 19th movie of "Pokémon" has been released. In the movie, the voice actor who voices Satoshi is Matsumoto Rika. She has been with this character for 19 years. Recently, the media interviewed her.

Q: This year's "Pokémon" movie is already the 19th one. So, Ms. Matsumoto, what do you think is the highlight of this one ("Pokémon and the Ingenious Magiana")?

A: First of all, the graphics are very beautiful. The animation is about to celebrate its 20th anniversary, and if you see the graphics, you will understand how much the staff has put into it. When I watched it for the first time, I couldn't help but be stunned by the graphics.

Q: In the work, Bolkanian is also a very important character.

A: Yes. The process of the deepening of the bond between Xiaozhi and Volkanian is what I find interesting. Volkanian initially avoided Xiaozhi and others, and his appearance was also quite scary. Such Pokémon usually make people feel scared. But Xiaozhi approached without any precautions, and Volkanian also opened his heart. This is Xiaozhi's greatest charm. In the real world, it would be great if we could do the same as Xiaozhi.

Q: So Ms. Matsumoto, what did you pay attention to when you were voicing Satoshi?

A: I have made up my mind not to lie to myself and show my true self. In fact, children can easily see through adults' lies. If I deliberately create a character, it will be seen through immediately. Therefore, I will not create a character specifically, but reflect my true feelings in Xiaozhi.

Q: When you were voicing Satoshi, were there any changes between the TV animation and the movie?

A: The same. It is better to say that putting the TV version and the theatrical version together can be considered a complete work. In my opinion, the theatrical version is a special episode added to the TV animation, not an independent work. So, as long as you watch the TV animation, you can easily understand the plot of the theatrical version and have more fun. Of course, if you can play the game, it will further increase your feelings for "Pokemon".

Q: After voicing Satoshi for 19 years in a row, have you experienced any changes in terms of emotional implantation?

A: I think my emotions gradually resonated with Satoshi's lines. Maybe I started to get closer to Satoshi, or maybe Satoshi got closer to me. When I first passed the audition, people said that my voice was very similar to Satoshi's. Recently, when I read the lines, I also performed with my own voice. So, because I was in my usual mood, it seemed more natural and not artificial.

Q: Actually, just by watching the TV animation, you can feel that Satoshi’s speech has matured.

A: Basically, Xiaozhi's personality has not changed. Previously, he has always shown his passionate and masculine side. But recently, he may be better at showing this characteristic in his speech.

Q: Finally, Ms. Matsumoto, please tell us about the upcoming 20th anniversary.

A: To this day, I still cherish Brock and Misty, who first went on adventures with Satoshi. Not only the characters, but also the voice actors are very valuable. For the 20th anniversary of the animation, it seems that there will be some activities for the voice actors of all generations. Although it is important to look to the future, sometimes we should also look back on the past. On this memorable day of the 20th anniversary, it would be great if this longing could be turned into a physical form. After that, the animation will also start a new journey, and I will work hard from scratch with a brand new mindset!