Series & First Appearance
Tomohiro Nagatsuka appears in the anime and manga series A Silent Voice (Koe no Katachi), created by Yoshitoki Ōima. He made his debut in Chapter 2 of the manga, which was published in 2013, and the film adaptation premiered in 2016 under the direction of Naoko Yamada.
Profile at a Glance
Nagatsuka is a high school student, typically depicted as a short and somewhat lonely boy. He serves as a primary supporting character and is particularly known for his strong friendship with the protagonist, Shoya Ishida. Despite his oddities and quirks, he is driven by a desire to become a millionaire and a film director, showcasing his optimism through his involvement in local film competitions.
Personality & Motivations
Nagatsuka is characterized by his obsessive loyalty and protective nature towards Ishida. His unyielding admiration often manifests as jealousy when Ishida interacts with others, which highlights his deep-seated fears of loneliness. Quirky and somewhat socially awkward, Nagatsuka dreams big—aspiring to become a millionaire and pursue a career in film. He displays a kindness that can border on naiveté, readily offering financial support to friends. His catchphrase may not be formal, but his strong declarations of friendship often reinforce his determination to support Ishida, despite the mixed reactions from those around him.
Abilities / Powers
While Nagatsuka does not possess any supernatural abilities, he demonstrates skills relevant to film-making, including creativity in storytelling and a unique perspective that influences his projects. His willingness to take risks is shown through his entry into a film competition, despite the outcome being less than favorable. His relevant limitation lies in his introverted nature, which sometimes hinders his ability to connect with people outside his small circle. This aspect of his personality evolves throughout the story, pushing him towards greater self-awareness.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Nagatsuka’s journey is predominantly intertwined with Ishida’s redemption arc. His significance becomes apparent when he defends Ishida—an act that leads to their fierce friendship. Throughout the series, Nagatsuka navigates his insecurities, particularly when facing rejection from peers like Ueno and Kawai, who find him off-putting. Despite setbacks in his film-making endeavors, most notably with the critique of his initial project, he remains committed to pursuing film as a field of study in college, demonstrating personal growth and resilience. Notably, he symbolizes the importance of friendship as a means of confronting personal challenges, markedly during the film competition arc.
Notable Relationships
Hydrated by his loyalty to Ishida, Nagatsuka’s relationships are heavily defined by this primary bond. His adoration often complicates his interactions, especially with peers who either accept or reject him based on his attachment to Ishida. The stark contrasts between his perspective and that of Ueno and Kawai reveal the social complexities of high school life, highlighting his role as an outsider seeking camaraderie. His dynamic with Ishida evolves from mere admiration to mutual respect and support by the end of the series, showcasing the transformative power of friendship.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Nagatsuka’s memorable scenes is during the film competition where he showcases unyielding determination, despite the final product being criticized. His genuine enthusiasm and ambitious spirit resonate with audiences, making his journey relatable. Additionally, his direct and often funny insights about friendship and loyalty solidify his role as a supporting character. A notable quote reflecting his admiration for Ishida could be paraphrased as "I will always stand by you, no matter what," accurately expressing his unwavering loyalty.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Tomohiro Nagatsuka has gained a significant following among fans, with member favorites listed at 591, indicating his popularity within the fandom. The character’s design emphasizes his youthful innocence, underscored through his short stature and expressive demeanor. In the film adaptation, he is voiced by Kenichi Matsuyama (JP) and has received positive praise for bringing a sense of warmth to the character. The overarching themes presented in Nagatsuka’s character arc resonate with viewers, touching on friendship, persistence, and the struggles of youth. His development not only serves to enrich the narrative of A Silent Voice but also acts as a mirror reflecting the complexities of human connection in a world rife with misunderstanding.
In summary, Tomohiro Nagatsuka stands out as an essential character within A Silent Voice, embodying both the challenges of friendship and the growth of personal ambition. His loyalty, aspirations, and unique worldview speak to the heart of the series, resonating with fans long after the story concludes.
