Frieren Anime Star Reveals Why the Original Manga Is 'Incredibly Frustrating'

Fans of the fantasy anime and manga Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End, which debuted in 2020, may find a curious disconnect between the source material and its adaptation. Kana Ichinose, the Japanese voice actor for the character Fern, has described reading the original manga as a “frustrating” experience. This insight comes from a recent interview conducted by the Japanese media outlet TheTV with Ichinose and her co-stars, Atsumi Tanezaki (Frieren) and Chiaki Kobayashi (Stark).

A Shifting Dynamic

The interview revealed that all three actors recognize a significant evolution in the relationships between their characters, particularly since the start of Season 2. For Ichinose, this change is most apparent in the developing connection between Fern and Stark, the former apprentice of the dwarven warrior Eisen.

Did You Know? Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End is currently available for streaming on multiple platforms, including Netflix, Hulu and Crunchyroll.

Awkwardness and Growth

Ichinose noted that the “awkwardness” between Fern and Stark is present in both the manga and the anime. However, she finds it easier to navigate this complexity while performing the role. She described feeling frustrated when revisiting the manga, despite acknowledging the loveliness of the awkwardness and recalling a character’s suggestion that they simply “go out on a date.”

Chiaki Kobayashi added that Stark has become demonstrably more “considerate” of Fern, a development he admires. He observed that Stark increasingly references Frieren when speaking with Fern, indicating a growing awareness and attentiveness to her presence. Before, there was simply a “good atmosphere” between them, but now Stark is actively noticing and responding to Fern in new ways.

Expert Insight: The actors’ observations highlight the nuanced challenges of adapting a story from manga to animation. The creative process often involves interpreting character dynamics and emphasizing certain aspects of their relationships, which can lead to differences in perception between the source material and the final product.

Ichinose further explained that Stark’s growth, while appreciated, also presents a potential obstacle to their relationship. As they become closer, they become more self-conscious, and Stark’s newfound carefulness could inadvertently hinder their progress as a couple.

What’s Next?

If the anime continues to follow the trajectory established in Season 2, we could see further exploration of the romantic tension between Fern, and Stark. Stark’s self-awareness will become a central theme, as he navigates his feelings for Fern while remaining mindful of her experiences. The dynamic between the characters may continue to evolve, potentially leading to a more explicit acknowledgment of their romantic interest in one another.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End about?

Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End follows the elven mage Frieren after she defeats the Demon King. The story focuses on her journey to understand humanity and the fleeting nature of time as she reconnects with old allies and mentors a young apprentice.

Who voices Fern in the Japanese version of the anime?

Kana Ichinose is the official Japanese voice actor for the character Fern.

What did Kana Ichinose say about reading the manga?

Kana Ichinose described reading the Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End manga as a “frustrating” experience, despite finding the awkwardness between Fern and Stark “lovely.”

How might the evolving relationship between Fern and Stark impact the overall narrative of Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End?

Frieren Anime Star Reveals Why the Original Manga Is ‘Incredibly Frustrating’