Why Does Boruto Sound and Look Like a Girl: Voice Acting Analysis and Cultural Context

Many viewers have noticed that both Boruto and Naruto, when voiced by certain actors, seem to have a more feminine quality to their voices. This phenomenon doesn't necessarily stem from the character's appearance but rather from the gender of the voice actors. Let's delve into the reasons behind this, focusing on Boruto in particular.

The Role of Voice Acting in Creating Characters

Boruto, the protagonist of the Naruto sequel series, has a unique voice that has left many viewers wondering why he sounds so feminine. While Boruto's appearance is generally masculine, his voice being performed by a female actor has contributed to this perception.

It's important to note that in the Japanese version of the series, Boruto is voiced by Yūko Sanpei, a male voice actor. However, in the English dub, Amanda Céline Miller, a female voice actress, performs the role. This difference can lead to a variety of interpretations and discussions among fans.

Comedy and Character Development

When discussing the voice of Boruto, many fans and critics highlight the comedic aspects of his performance. By casting a female voice actress, the show creators can add a layer of humor to Boruto's character, making him more relatable and appealing to a broader audience.

One theory suggests that the creators are purposely going for a "comedy gold" effect by casting actors whose voices can evoke laughter. It's a well-established strategy in animation to have characters voiced by actors whose voices people can find amusing, making the character more likable and enhancing his comedic aspects.

The Least Liked Character in Team 7

Boruto often receives mixed reviews from fans, particularly those invested in the original Naruto series. In the eyes of some critics, he is positioned as the "least liked" member of Team 7, a fact that might make his voice more fitting for the role. A feminine, comedic voice can sometimes offer a balance that makes him less grating to the ears of detractors.

Compared to other members of Team 7, Shikamaru, while an ambient scientist, is portrayed more closely to the original character in terms of voice. His voice, performed by a male actor, aligns with the original series, making him a more stable reference point. Characters like Cucu, a female peer in the series, are voiced by actors whose voices perfectly match their energetic and hyperactive personalities.

Cultural Differences and Voice Casting

It's also worth noting that in the Japanese version of the series, voice actors can sometimes have similar voices regardless of their gender. This cultural nuance can lead to characters being perceived as "more girly" or "more manly" based on the actor's performance rather than their natural gender. For instance, Metal Lee, a male character, is voiced by an actor who gives a more masculine but less confident performance, adding to the character's appeal. Conversely, Boruto’s voice, performed by a female actor, can be perceived as more feminine.

This trend isn't unique to Boruto. In the English dub of the original Naruto series, the characters were also voiced by female actors, contributing to the overall feminine quality of the voice acting in that version.

Conclusion

The distinct voices of Boruto and other characters in the Naruto series, when performed by certain actors, can be attributed to a range of factors, including comedy, character development, and cultural differences in voice acting. While Boruto’s voice might seem more feminine, it serves a purpose in enhancing his comedic and relatable aspects.

Ultimately, the voice acting itself plays a crucial role in how a character is perceived by viewers, and understanding the cultural and creative contexts behind these decisions can deepen one's appreciation of the series.