Naomi Watanabe has been cast as the voice of Auva, a cheerful and passionate ambassador from a peaceful planet, in Disney and Pixar’s upcoming film Elio (set for release on August 1). She will voice the role in both the U.S. original and Japanese versions, making her the first Japanese performer outside of Pixar’s internal staff to voice a character in a Pixar original film—and the first to do so in both languages simultaneously.

Pixar has moved audiences worldwide with colorful worlds like the Land of the Dead in Coco (2017) and the inner realm of emotions in Inside Out (2015, 2024). Their latest story is set in a vibrant, dreamlike cosmos that promises to capture hearts once again.

The protagonist, Elio, is a lonely boy with a vivid imagination and a deep love for space. Though misunderstood by those around him, he longs to travel light-years away. One day, his wish is mysteriously answered, and he is invited to the Communiverse, a council of planetary representatives from across the galaxy.

Auva, voiced by Watanabe, is a radiant figure filled with positive energy. She introduces Elio to the Communiverse and gently guides him through his cosmic adventure.

A Groundbreaking Moment for a Japanese Voice Actor

This casting marks a historical first in Pixar’s history. Watanabe is the first Japanese actor to voice both English and Japanese versions of a character in a Pixar film. The directors commented:

“This story carries a powerful message—that feeling different can sometimes make us feel alone, but those differences are exactly what make each of us shine. It reminds us of the importance of embracing who we are and connecting with others because of those differences.”

They added:

“Naomi Watanabe’s life journey embodies this message perfectly. She constantly challenges herself in new environments while staying true to her unique individuality, making her the ideal choice for this project.”

With her bold charisma and boundless charm, Watanabe has inspired fans around the globe. Now based in New York, she bridges cultural and linguistic divides, just like Auva, who represents her world in the interstellar gathering.

Watanabe's Reaction and Recording Experience

Upon receiving the offer, Watanabe shared her excitement:
“I was so shocked! I thought, ‘Is this real?!’ I’ve done Japanese dubbing before, but this was an American movie, in English! I was surprised at first, but I was also deeply honored and happy.”

On her recording sessions in the U.S., she noted:
“It was nerve-wracking knowing that my voice would shape Auva’s character. English was tough too. At first, I was really stiff, but the director encouraged me to just be myself—and that made it so much easier.”

When asked about similarities with Auva, she laughed:
“Auva’s huge expressive eyes change with her emotions, and even the way her face moves when she talks reminded me of how I perform with facial expressions. In that sense, I totally relate! Though… Auva’s not quite as goofy as me! (laughs)”

A Story About Embracing Yourself

Recording the Japanese version while listening to her own English lines was a new experience:
“It felt so strange. I’d never done anything like that—dubbing my own voice from English into Japanese!”

When told she’s the first Japanese voice actor to do this, she exclaimed:
“What?! The first? That’s amazing!”

The film’s narrative, especially through Elio’s encounter with Glordon, conveys themes of self-acceptance and interpersonal connection. When asked who embraces her true self the most, Watanabe responded immediately:
“My fans, absolutely! No matter what I do—when I’m serious, clumsy, or just being myself—they accept all of it. That support means everything to me.”
Just like Auva, Watanabe brings warmth, kindness, and joy to everyone around her.

Elio Japanese Trailer

Source : ORICON NEWS