Inside Takopi's Original Sin with Reina Ueda & Konomi Kohara [INTERVIEW]

A Gentle Studio Atmosphere Blooming Amid Heavy Themes

Q: Despite the story’s heavy themes, what was the recording studio like?

Reina Ueda:
The studio had a really calm and soothing atmosphere. Everyone spoke gently, with kind words and soft voices. Even while we were recording the emotionally intense scenes of the show—during tests and final takes—we could refresh ourselves during breaks. It was like being healed by a breeze of greenery.

I think every person there just naturally treated others with kindness. Kurumi Mamiya, who plays Takopi, brought in tons of snacks as a gift. That made me genuinely happy—it was such a comforting gesture.

What really helped was how humble she was. She’s such a veteran in the field, yet I never felt nervous standing beside her at the mic. I was deeply grateful for that.

Q: Was everyone intentionally trying to keep the mood light and calm?

Konomi Kohara:
I think it was just the natural vibe each person brought in. No one was trying to force anything.

Q: So it was just who you all are at your core…

Kohara:
That said, we had a lot of guest and supporting cast members—people who weren’t in every episode. Making sure they felt comfortable must’ve been difficult.

So I tried to be mindful, like saying, “There are snacks over there!” and making small gestures so others could sense that soft, welcoming atmosphere. But aside from that, I think everyone just brought their true selves to the table. No one felt the need to overcompensate or overthink things. In a way, that kind of natural ease made me think, “Wow, these people are real professionals.”

Of course, because of the show's heavy content, while we were acting—during tests and main takes—it felt like we were submerged in a dark emotional space.

But as soon as the director called “cut,” everyone would exhale—maybe a bit dramatically—like, “Phew...” We’d say things like, “That was rough,” or “That character had it so tough.” We all carried feelings from the roles we played.

Still, no one lingered in those emotions too long. People would shift back quickly: “Speaking of which…” or “Hey, there were snacks earlier!” That ability to switch gears came from everyone’s warmth and character.

And Mamiya-san—everyone’s heard her voice at least once, right? This was my first time meeting her, and I had really been looking forward to it. When I introduced myself, she was incredibly humble and respectful.

She kept saying things like, “You’re all amazing,” “You’re working so hard,” or “You’re the future of this industry.” She kept encouraging us throughout. I’m sure she meant every word.

There’s something pure about her, just like Takopi. It might be rude to say this about a senior, but in both the anime world and the real world, she felt like a mascot. Just having her there made us feel relaxed and comforted. I kept thinking, “I’m so glad I get to see her and talk with her again today.”

Having someone like that at the center of the group probably played a big role in keeping that gentle energy flowing.

Q: When a veteran like that is at the heart of things, the mood really changes, doesn’t it?

Kohara:
It made me think, “81 Produce really is something else,” haha.

If Takopi Were Real: What Would You Wish For?

Q: Lastly, if Takopi were by your side in real life, what would you ask of him?

Kohara:
I think I’d go on tons of outings with him. I’d be like, “This over here is this, and that over there is that…”

In the series, Takopi is always fighting so hard, so I’d want to just spend happy times together.

We’d go out to eat something delicious, and I’d say things like, “Here, try this!” and “Yum, right?” I’d want to show him that there are all kinds of joyful experiences to be had here on Earth.

Q: And you, Ueda-san?

Ueda:
Since it’s a wish… I think I’d just want to “talk.” I’d love to have long conversations. I’d want to hear Takopi’s stories, and I’d want him to listen to mine.

Just talking slowly together would be more than enough. I don’t think I’d need any of his Happy Gadgets. Even without tools, I feel like we could understand each other, grow closer, and become friends just by communicating.

That’s what I’d wish for.

Takopi's Original Sin Trailer

Source : ORICON NEWS