Series & First Appearance
Mutta Nanba is a central character in the anime and manga series Space Brothers (Uchuu Kyoudai), which debuted in the manga on 2007 and the anime adaptation aired in 2012. The series was written and illustrated by Chuya Koyama and is produced by A-1 Pictures.
Profile at a Glance
Born on October 28, 1993, Mutta is 29 years old at the series’ start, making him the older brother of Hibito Nanba. He serves as the protagonist of the story, aspiring to become an astronaut after initially working as a car designer. His journey is marked by determination, resilience, and a clear ambition to follow his younger brother into space.
Personality & Motivations
Mutta is characterized by his strong sense of responsibility and a somewhat scattered personality, often leading him to be clumsy or forgetful. Despite these flaws, he possesses a remarkable determination and enthusiasm for achieving his dreams. His primary motivation stems from a desire to prove himself not only to his family but also to overcome the man who once insulted his younger brother, which led to his impulsive decision to pursue a career in space exploration. He often uses quirky expressions and has a light-hearted sense of humor, which makes him relatable to fans.
Abilities / Powers
While not endowed with any supernatural powers, Mutta’s standout skills include a keen intelligence, adaptability, and problem-solving ability. He is proficient in various engineering concepts, stemming from his background in car design, which he applies to solving challenges in his astronaut training. However, his journey also reveals limitations, particularly in dealing with his emotions and self-doubt, which evolve as he confronts various obstacles throughout the series.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Mutta’s journey to becoming an astronaut serves as the primary storyline and demonstrates significant character growth. The turning point occurs after his impulsive act of headbutting a manager who insults Hibito, leading to his dismissal from the car design company. A pivotal moment comes when he receives a message from Hibito, challenging him to pursue his childhood dream of space travel. His trials include rigorous training sessions, overcoming personal fears, and building camaraderie with fellow astronaut candidates, which culminate in him ultimately affirming his resolve to make space exploration his life.
Notable Relationships
Mutta’s relationships are foundational to his character development. His bond with his younger brother Hibito serves as both a source of motivation and rivalry throughout the series. Mentors and fellow trainees, such as the experienced astronaut Kenji Makabe, also play essential roles in shaping his growth. The contrasts between Mutta and Hibito highlight their individual paths, with Hibito already established as a successful astronaut, pushing Mutta to strive harder.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One iconic moment occurs in Episode 1, when Mutta, after receiving Hibito’s message, reflects on the significance of pursuing one’s dreams. His line, "I will go to the moon!" resonates with fans as it encapsulates both his determination and the emotional stakes of his journey. Moreover, when he highlights his motto, "If you can dream it, you can do it," it inspires both his peers and audiences, illustrating his role as a motivational figure.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Mutta Nanba has garnered considerable popularity among fans, with over 2,240 member favorites noted in community databases. His character design, like that of the entire cast, is praised for its relatable realism, resonating with audiences who appreciate the blend of humor and seriousness in the storytelling. In the original Japanese version, Mutta is voiced by Hiroshi Kamiya, known for his work in other popular series such as Attack on Titan and Durarara!!. The English dub features Chris Sabat, recognized for his roles in Dragon Ball Z and My Hero Academia, further bridging the gap for international fans. The series itself has touched upon cultural themes of ambition and sibling rivalry, making it a significant part of contemporary anime discussions.
In summary, Mutta Nanba stands as a compelling protagonist whose journey brings depth to the themes of ambition, familial bonds, and resilience. Through his experiences as an aspiring astronaut, fans are treated to a relatable and inspiring narrative that reflects the importance of pursuing one’s dreams.
