Gachiakuta stands out as a thrilling new shonen anime series that transforms the adage “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure” into a gripping revenge plot. Brought to life by Studio Bones, the esteemed creators behind My Hero Academia, the narrative centers on Rudo, a boy unfairly accused and banished to the Pit, an abyss at the fringe of a segregated world, after being exiled from the airborne city of Spherite.
In the Pit, Rudo joins forces with a band of superpowered outcasts known as the Cleaners. Armed with personal, meaningful artifacts as weapons, he embarks on a treacherous journey back to the surface to fulfill his desires for revenge.
As the first part of its 24-episode season draws to a close and preparations commence for the second half, io9 conversed with voice actors Bryson Baugus (Rudo) and Christopher Wehkamp (Enjin) about stepping into the characters for this unique take on the classic mentor-student dynamic in shonen anime, showcasing how the series elevates “trash TV” into something truly remarkable.
This interview has been edited for brevity.
What Sets Gachiakuta Apart from Other Shonen Anime?
Isaiah Colbert, io9: Many fans are calling Gachiakuta the next significant entry in the shonen genre. What elements create that unique spark?
Bryson Baugus: The distinctive art style is one of the first things that hits you. There’s nothing else like Gachiakuta in the current landscape. The character designs are fresh and compelling, the fashion is striking, and the graffiti art invigorates the scenes. The music is fantastic, too, creating that initial hook to draw viewers in. As they dive deeper, they’ll discover rich character interactions and the unfolding mysteries of the world, which truly captivates them.
The pacing also allows for thorough character development and world-building. Unlike many shonen series that rush from one fight to another, Gachiakuta takes its time to establish its characters and their intricate relationships.
Christopher Wehkamp: I completely agree. Beyond the aesthetics, the power system is fascinating and offers so much depth. It leads viewers to contemplate the significance behind each character’s abilities and backstory. Each character’s “jinki” invites speculation about their journey and connections, providing a rich layer to explore while still delivering exciting battles, as every shonen must.
Voice Acting in a Unique World
io9: With such a vibrant and chaotic world reminiscent of Mad Max blended with a graffiti punk Borderlands aesthetic, do you have any rituals or mental preparations to channel that energy before recording?
Baugus: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially since Rudo has a somewhat raspy voice that I don’t typically portray. I prefer warm tea to soothe my throat before diving into my character.
Wehkamp: I developed a musical ritual in 2018 when I juggled multiple roles across different shows. I began associating various characters with specific music genres or artists, creating playlists to listen to on my way to the studio. This helps me transition into the right mindset for each character. While recording from home, I often play a bit of Spotify to recreate that atmosphere.
Finding the Core of Rudo’s Character
io9: Shonen protagonists often carry immense burdens on their shoulders. Rudo’s tale resembles a Greek tragedy woven with themes of vengeance. How did you approach voicing a character who balances rage, grief, and hope?
Baugus: I focus on Rudo’s fundamental emotions. Despite his anger, at his heart, he’s just a misunderstood kid seeking belonging, having faced rejection throughout his life. With only Regto as a father figure, he navigates the complexities of friendship and family. My portrayal emphasizes vulnerability rather than unbridled anger, making him introspective as he learns from those around him.
Enjin as the Mentor Figure
io9: Enjin embodies the classic shonen mentor archetype. How would you summarize his guiding philosophy for Rudo?
Wehkamp: Enjin sees Rudo’s potential beyond his fighting abilities. He recognizes a deeper value that can help Rudo find his place on the Ground. While the Cleaners focus primarily on battling creatures, there’s still room for development and growth that we have yet to fully unveil.
Imagining Personal Powers in Gachiakuta
io9: If you lived in the world of Gachiakuta and possessed a giving power, what would your vital instrument be?
Baugus: I have a well-worn copy of a Game Boy Advance game, Mega Man Battle Network 2, with a faded label. That would transform into a magical game card, letting me play it instantly whenever I desired.
Wehkamp: I still have my original drumsticks from my early days in bands. They’re battered and broken, but I would love to summon a ghostly drum set wherever I am, allowing me to jam out without disturbing anyone. Imagine the looks I’d get!
New episodes of Gachiakuta air every Sunday on Crunchyroll.
Want more insights into emerging anime? Continue your journey into the world of Gachiakuta and beyond with us at Moyens I/O.