Series & First Appearance
R. Dorothy Wayneright appears in the anime The Big O, which debuted in 1999. The series was created by designer and director Katsuyuki Motohiro and produced by Sunrise Inc. Dorothy serves as a central character throughout the storyline, revealing complex layers that intrigue both viewers and Roger Smith, the series’ protagonist.
Profile at a Glance
R. Dorothy Wayneright is an android who appears to be in her late teens to early twenties. She serves as both an assistant and companion to Roger Smith, a negotiator in the city of Paradigm. As a construct of her creator, she embodies a blend of human-like physical attributes and robotic efficiency, lacking the ability to experience genuine emotions, which impacts her interactions within the narrative.
Personality & Motivations
Dorothy displays a logical and straightforward demeanor, often coming across as blunt and practical. This characteristic aligns with her android nature, as she processes information without the bias of human emotion. Despite her inability to feel, she exhibits a curious fascination with human behavior and expressions. One of her notable quirks is her tendency to play rapid Chopin pieces when Roger oversleeps, a habit that both annoys and endears her to him. Dorothy’s primary motivation revolves around her desire to assist Roger and navigate their quasi-familial bond, as well as to better understand the complexities of human emotions and experiences.
Abilities / Powers
As an android, R. Dorothy Wayneright possesses several mechanical advantages, including enhanced strength, resilience, and computational speed. She can process data at lightning-fast speeds, making her an invaluable asset in strategic situations. Her combat skills are underdeveloped compared to others in the series, however, as her focus primarily remains on assistance rather than direct confrontation. Notably, Dorothy has shown an evolution in her understanding of emotion over time, especially through her close interactions with Roger and the various situations they encounter.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Throughout The Big O, Dorothy’s development unfolds alongside Roger’s journey as they uncover the truths of their city and themselves. A pivotal moment occurs when Dorothy grapples with the notion of identity, considering her origins and the implications of being an android in a world filled with lost memories and emotions. The exploration of her relationship with Roger deepens, especially as they face threats from megadeuses (giant robots) and delve into the mysteries of Paradigm City. Dorothy’s growth stands out in episodes like "The Big O has a Contract," where her mechanical nature is juxtaposed against the emotional struggles of those around her.
Notable Relationships
R. Dorothy has notable relationships with several key figures in the series. Her bond with Roger Smith is the most central, often providing a mix of professional collaboration and personal companionship. This dynamic illustrates a mentor-mentee aspect but also hints at deeper emotional undercurrents as they face adversity together. Timothy Wayneright, the person who commissioned her creation, serves as a significant figure in her backstory, complicating her sense of identity. Additionally, her interactions with other androids and humans highlight the societal divisions regarding artificial beings, further aiding her character development.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One memorable scene occurs in “The Greatest of All Time,” where Dorothy flatly states, “I am not a human being. I am an android.” This line resonates deeply with fans, encapsulating her struggle between function and comprehension of humanity. Additionally, her scenes with Roger often elicit laughter, particularly when her logical reactions to emotional situations expose the absurdities of human behavior. These moments solidify her role as both a partner and a source of comic relief, allowing viewers to appreciate the complexity behind her mechanical facade.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
R. Dorothy Wayneright stands out as a fan-favorite character, with over 500 members in her specific fan community. The character is voiced by actress Melissa Fahn in the English version, while the Japanese voice is provided by Akiko Yajima. The design of Dorothy features influences from classic film noir and recognizes the genre’s thematic discussions about identity and technology. Her character’s mix of stoicism paired with a yearning for connection resonates with audiences, contributing to her enduring popularity within the anime community. Additionally, The Big O gained a notable following for its distinct aesthetic and philosophical underpinnings, with Dorothy’s character emblematic of these themes.
In summary, R. Dorothy Wayneright is a rich character whose android nature raises intriguing questions about emotion, identity, and what it means to be human. Her presence not only complements Roger Smith’s personal journey but also provokes thought on broader societal issues, making her an intriguing figure within the world of anime.
