Allen Walker: One Voice, Many Feels (And Maybe a Hot Take?)
Allen Walker. What a character, right? White hair, cursed eye, innocence weapon – the whole package. But today, let's talk about something else: his voice!
Voice actors are magic. They breathe life into our beloved anime characters. They make us laugh, cry, and sometimes, throw our remotes at the TV.
Todd Haberkorn: Allen's Energetic English Voice
Let's start with the English dub. Todd Haberkorn is the man behind the first rendition of Allen. He brought a certain pep to Allen that was undeniably infectious.
Todd's Allen felt...optimistic, even when facing down Akuma. It was a great contrast to the dark world of D.Gray-Man.
He definitely captures the 'young and trying his best' vibe. Plus, his screams? Top-notch!
Brina Palencia: The Rebirth of Allen in Hallow
Then came D.Gray-Man Hallow. New animation, new feels... and a new voice for Allen! Brina Palencia stepped into the role.
This is where things get spicy (for me, at least!). Brina's Allen has a different timbre. It's a bit softer, perhaps even more... fragile.
Some might say it wasn't a great fit. But hear me out!
Unpopular Opinion Time? Brina Palencia's Allen is Underrated
Okay, okay, I know. It's probably a crime to say this out loud. But I kind of *love* Brina Palencia's take on Allen.
It's not that Todd Haberkorn was bad, not at all. He set the bar high. But Brina's Allen felt... more nuanced.
Hallow delves deeper into Allen's trauma. Brina's voice, with its subtle vulnerability, reflected that perfectly.
Why I Think It Works
Consider Allen's backstory. He's been through a lot. He's carrying secrets, battling inner demons (literally!).
Brina's voice conveyed that hidden pain. It gave Allen a layer of depth that was both heartbreaking and compelling.
Maybe it's just me. Maybe I'm projecting. But I found her performance incredibly moving.
The Japanese Voice: Sanae Kobayashi
Of course, we can't forget the original! Sanae Kobayashi voices Allen in the Japanese version. She's a legend.
Her portrayal is unique again. She gives Allen a mature feel while still portraying his youth.
The Japanese voice is strong and confident, especially during battle scenes. It's yet another great interpretation.
Voice Acting: It's All Subjective
Ultimately, voice acting is subjective. What one person loves, another might hate.
There's no right or wrong answer. It all boils down to personal preference.
However, I'm throwing my hat into the ring for Brina Palencia's Allen. Give her a listen with an open mind. You might be surprised!
Maybe you'll even agree with my "unpopular" opinion. Who knows?
What about you? Which Allen Walker voice actor do you prefer? Let the debate begin!
