Series & First Appearance
Isaac Dian is a character from the anime and manga series Baccano!, created by Ryohgo Narita and illustrated by Abec. He first appears in Chapter 1 of the light novel adaptation, as well as in the anime’s first episode, "The Train to Chicago" (Episode 1).
Profile at a Glance
Isaac Dian appears to be in his mid-twenties and serves as one half of a comedic duo of thieves alongside his partner, Miria Harvent. Throughout Baccano!, he is primarily characterized as a bumbling yet endearing protagonist. Isaac is known for his light-hearted approach to life, often engaging in absurd thefts with his beloved Miria, bringing humor to serious situations through his antics.
Personality & Motivations
Isaac is characterized by his boundless enthusiasm, childlike innocence, and utter cluelessness. He possesses an eccentric sense of humor and has a carefree disposition that can be both charming and maddening to those around him. His unwavering love for Miria is a driving force in his life, fueling his reckless decisions and forging a strong bond between them. One notable quirk is his penchant for spontaneous and outrageous thefts; he often proclaims that "everyone loves an intriguing story," emphasizing his desire for excitement over material gains.
Abilities / Powers
While Isaac is not portrayed as a traditional fighter, his standout abilities lie in his cleverness and improvisation skills during heists. Though largely untrained in combat, he often relies on his and Miria’s chaotic teamwork to escape sticky situations. Their unpredictability can be seen as a form of combat style, where they use bizarre tactics that often leave their adversaries bewildered. His biggest limitation is his naiveté; Isaac often underestimates the dangers of his exploits due to his unfocused demeanor.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Isaac’s character is introduced during the "1927 Arc," where he and Miria create chaos aboard the Flying Pussyfoot train. Their involvement in this arc reveals their knack for stumbling into major plots without truly understanding the ramifications. Throughout the series, they are witnesses to various significant events such as the immortality of certain characters and the complex web of inter-character relationships. The overarching narrative showcases Isaac’s growth in luck and unpredictability, emphasizing his role as a comic relief while exploring the darker themes of the world around him.
Notable Relationships
Isaac’s most significant relationship is with Miria Harvent, his partner in crime and romantic interest. The two share an inseparable bond that defines much of Isaac’s character dynamic; they often finish each other’s thoughts and plans. He also interacts with other key characters such as Firo Prochainezo and Czeslaw Meyer, forming a level of comradery or rivalry that adds depth to the plot.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Isaac’s iconic moments occurs in Episode 5, "The Man in the Mask," where he delights the audience with his inability to understand the seriousness of the surrounding conflicts while actively engaging in his absurd schemes. Another memorable scene takes place in Episode 10, "The Last Heaven," where he utters, “We live in our own little exciting world!” This line encapsulates his character’s optimistic perspective even when faced with danger.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
In terms of voice portrayal, Isaac is voiced by Daisuke Hirakawa in the Japanese version and by Eric Vale in the English dub, both of whom bring a playful exuberance to the character. Isaac has ranked favorably in popularity polls within the Baccano! fandom, often noted for his humorous expressions and memorable escapades. The whimsical nature of his character can be seen as a cultural commentary on the absurdity of crime and the joy found in adventure, resonating with audiences who appreciate unconventional heroism in storytelling.
Isaac Dian’s character stands out in Baccano! for combining humor with the darker undertones of the narrative, contributing significantly to the series’ unique blend of action and comedy.
