What is a FanDubbed Anime?

Fan dubbed anime is a phenomenon in the world of anime where fans take it upon themselves to translate and dub the audio of an animated series. Contrary to professionally produced dubs by companies or studios, fan dubs are typically done in their free time by enthusiasts and are often released freely online. This flexibility makes it easier for anime websites to host and distribute such content.

The Process of Fandubbing

A fandub involves the re-recording of the original audio of an anime series with new voice performances and sometimes even new music. The word 'dubbing' refers to the act of recording new dialogue over the original audio. Fandubs can be done in various languages, but the original intent of fandubs is to translate the content into a different language than the original, such as translating a Japanese anime into English. Fans often embark on this endeavor to make the anime accessible to a wider audience or simply for fun.

Types of Fandubs

Fandubs can vary widely in their purpose and content. One common type of fandub is a parody, where fans take the original anime and add comedic or satirical elements. For example, DBZ Abridged, Hellsing Ultimate Abridged, Yu-Gi-Oh Abridged, and Sword Art Online Abridged are famous examples of abridged series that parodied their original versions. These parodies often incorporate original humor and references that may be lost or altered in professional dubs.

Abridged fandubs are particularly unique because they often include original music tracks or even integrate them into the series. For instance, the fandub of Hellsing Ultimate Abridged included tracks from the original anime's The Big O soundtrack, and the fandub of Sword Art Online Abridged cleverly used the song This Is War by Thirty Seconds to Mars during the final battle. These additions not only enhance the viewing experience but also allow fans to fully immerse themselves in the world they love.

Benefits and Challenges

Fandubbing is a fun and engaging activity for anime enthusiasts. It’s a fantastic way to improve one’s voice acting skills and enjoy the anime even more. Fans like Chris Guerrero, known as General Ivan, showcase the talent and creativity that fandubbing can foster. His re-voicing of Cooler in DBZ Abridged and his contribution to the Overlord official dub are prime examples of the dedication and skill involved in fandubbing.

Moreover, fandubs can help fans connect with the community. Sharing and collaborating on fandubs can bring people together, foster artistic expression, and create a supportive network for aspiring voice actors and translators. However, it also presents challenges, such as the legal and ethical considerations of using copyrighted material without permission. Nonetheless, the passion and creativity demonstrated in fandubs make them a vital and entertaining part of the anime world.

Conclusion

In conclusion, fan dubbed anime offers a unique and engaging way for fans to experience and appreciate their favorite shows. Whether for fun, practice, or as a form of artistic expression, fandubs showcase the passion and creativity of anime enthusiasts around the world. If you have a love for anime and an inclination to voice acting, give fandubbing a try—it might just be the perfect hobby for you.