Cars 2 Japanese Dub -
. Reviewers note he captures the character's transition from an arrogant racer to a more mature friend, maintaining a tone similar to Owen Wilson's original performance. : Voiced by Kappei Yamaguchi
The localization team did not just translate the words; they translated the atmosphere. The Tokyo sequence features custom Japanese signs, jokes about Japanese high-tech toilets (which Mater mistakes for a luxury car wash), and a deep appreciation for Otaku culture. Watching these scenes in the native language makes the setting feel organic rather than touristy. 2. A Masterclass in Seiyū Casting
The Italian Formula 1 racer is a scene-stealer in any language. But Tanihara dials the narcissism up to eleven. He delivers Francesco’s lines in flamboyant, katakana-laden Italian-Japanese, making every boast sound like a kabuki actor ad-libbing a fashion show. His exaggerated “Ciao, amici!” became a minor catchphrase in Japan.
In the Japanese dub, Mater’s dialogue is adjusted to reflect his "fish out of water" status in Tokyo. While he remains boisterous, the contrast between his Southern-style mannerisms and the formal Japanese setting is played up for comedic effect. cars 2 japanese dub
: The translation goes beyond literal meaning, adapting Mater’s slang and the international racing banter into natural-sounding Japanese that retains the spirit of the original "spy thriller" parody. The Dubbing Database Key Japanese Cast Members Japanese Voice Actor Notable Credits Lightning McQueen Hiroshi Tsuchida (Kotetsu Hagane) Tomomitsu Yamaguchi Comedian/Actor Finn McMissile Hōchū Ōtsuka (Jiraiya), Demon Slayer (Urokodaki) Holley Shiftwell Fullmetal Alchemist (Edward Elric) Francesco Bernoulli Shigenori Sōya JoJo's Bizarre Adventure Keiko Toda (Anpanman) Recommendation
: The dub features several legendary Japanese voice actors who bring a distinct energy compared to the original English cast. Mater (メーター) : Voiced by Tomomitsu Yamaguchi
When Mater mistake a massive scoop of wasabi for pistachio ice cream, the comedic timing in the Japanese dub changes. In English, the humor relies heavily on Mater's Southern slang and dramatic physical reaction. In the Japanese dub, Mater’s dialogue utilizes exaggerated honorifics and polite customer service language right before his mouth catches fire, playing on the stark contrast between rigid Japanese politeness and sudden chaos. The In-Universe Idol Group: Perfume The Tokyo sequence features custom Japanese signs, jokes
If you are in a region that supports multiple audio tracks (like Japan, or sometimes the US/UK depending on licensing), you can toggle the audio to "Japanese" in the settings.
The physical media includes exclusive behind-the-scenes featurettes showing the Japanese voice actors in the recording studio and interviews with the localization team.
The success of "Cars 2" in Japan also led to a range of merchandising and spin-off opportunities. The film's characters and vehicles were featured in various promotional partnerships, including collaborations with Japanese car manufacturers, tire companies, and other brands. A Masterclass in Seiyū Casting The Italian Formula
: Despite mixed feelings about the film's plot, the quality of the Japanese dub is consistently highlighted as a positive element. Reviewers have noted the top-notch voice acting, which helps make the film more entertaining. The specific casting choices, such as Fukuzawa as Cartrip and Panzetta as Luigi, were likely appreciated for their authenticity and appeal. A standout review mentions that the foreign dubbing, like the Japanese version, can make the film more interesting than the original.
In the English version, McQueen is a brash rookie. In Japanese, he is voiced by , a member of the legendary boy band SMAP and a massive movie star. Kimura brings a polished, heroic dignity to McQueen. He removes the "cocksure jerk" edge and replaces it with a determined, almost stoic racing spirit. For Japanese audiences, Kimura is Lightning McQueen, having also voiced the role in the first film.