Voice Actress Mariya Ise: "I Wanted to Become a Film Director After Watching Princess Mononoke" — Meeting Hideaki Anno at Moyoco Anno's House

On Friday, July 4, at 9:00 p.m., the 52nd episode of "SHIBUYA ANIME BASE" (pronounced Shibuani) was broadcast live on the "ABEMA Anime Channel."

This episode featured popular voice actress Mariya Ise, known for roles such as Reg in "MADE IN ABYSS." Together with fellow voice actress Yuka Terasaki, she took part in a location shoot in Shin-Okubo, Tokyo.

The first place the two visited was a shop specializing in hotteok, a Korean street sweets delicacy. While waiting for the sweets to finish cooking, the conversation turned to Ise’s career as a voice actress.

Regarding what inspired her to pursue voice acting, Ise recalled, "When I was in the third grade of elementary school, I saw Studio Ghibli's 'Princess Mononoke,' and it made me want to become a film director. I was so deeply moved—as if struck by lightning—that I went to see the movie in theaters eight times."

She continued, "When I was in junior high, I went to see the 'HUNTER×HUNTER' musical. I approached a producer in the lobby and told them, 'I'm aiming to be a film director, so please support me.' They replied, 'You seem interesting, why not try studying acting?' and introduced me to Yuji Mitsuya. I started attending a voice acting school in the second year of junior high."

As for what deepened their bond, Ise revealed, "We knew of each other through mutual friends, but we happened to meet at an audition. We hit it off right away, and I ended up staying at her place that very day (laughs)." Later, they would go on to co-star in "HUNTER×HUNTER."

Terasaki said, "I remember very clearly when Mariya landed her role in 'HUNTER×HUNTER.' Being able to participate in a work you love as a character you love—it's truly amazing." Ise agreed, adding, "It was a dream come true, a real turning point for me."

Ise went on to say, "Director Hayao Miyazaki is the origin of my dreams. But my personal favorite director is Satoshi Kon. I wish I could have performed in his works, but unfortunately, he passed away before I had the chance."