Okay, let's talk about something near and dear to my anime-loving heart: the English dub of Ouran Highschool Host Club.
Specifically, the voices behind those beautiful, bishonen faces. We all have our favorites, right?
The Main Crew: Love 'Em or...?
First up, we've got Brina Palencia as Haruhi Fujioka. She's got that perfect blend of sass and sweetness. Brina really sells Haruhi's "I can't believe I'm surrounded by these idiots" vibe.
Then there's Vic Mignogna as Tamaki Suoh. This is where things get a little spicy. He definitely *committed* to the role.
I mean, the guy's theatricality is cranked up to eleven! Sometimes it works, sometimes it's... a lot.
The Twins: Mischief Managed?
Todd Haberkorn (Hikaru) and Greg Ayres (Kaoru) are legendary. Their twin dynamic is on point. They nail that creepy, yet strangely endearing, sibling bond.
Greg Ayres is almost too perfect as Kaoru. The mischievous charm? Impeccable!
Their bickering and coordinated schemes always make me laugh. Truly iconic.
The Strong, Silent Type & The Cutie
J. Michael Tatum as Kyoya Ootori is another solid choice. That cool, collected demeanor? Nailed it! He sounds effortlessly intelligent and slightly intimidating.
And who could forget Luci Christian as Honey-senpai? She’s adorable!
Some find her voice grating, but I think it captures Honey's childish sweetness perfectly. Don't @ me!
Unpopular Opinions: Brace Yourselves!
Okay, here's where I might lose some of you. Ready for my hot take?
I think Vic's *Tamaki* is… over the top. I appreciate the effort, I really do! But sometimes, his performance feels a little forced.
I'm not saying he's bad! Just… maybe dialed up to 150% instead of a cool 100%.
And while I adore Luci Christian, sometimes *Honey's* voice makes my teeth ache. It’s *so* sweet!
Dub vs. Sub: The Eternal Debate
Look, I know the sub purists are out there. And that's totally valid!
But there's something about the Ouran English dub that just hits right. Maybe it's the nostalgia. Maybe it's the voice actors' clear enthusiasm.
Or maybe it’s the fact that I can multitask (read: scroll through my phone) while still enjoying the show. Don't judge!
Ultimately, it's all subjective. What matters is that we're all enjoying Ouran Highschool Host Club, in whatever language floats our boats. Even if your boat is powered by slightly-too-dramatic princely pronouncements.
Let's all agree to disagree... respectfully. Okay?
And if you disagree with me on the Tamaki thing, well… maybe we can settle it with a rose duel. Just kidding! (Mostly.)
