As we approach the much-anticipated release of “Given: To the Sea” on September 20, 2024, fans are eager to witness the final chapter of this beloved story. To celebrate this moment, we continue our interview series with the cast, and today we focus on Shogo Yano, the talented voice actor behind Mafuyu Sato. In this exclusive interview, Yano reflects on Mafuyu’s growth, his relationships, and the impact of the Given series.
Looking Back at “Given: Hiiragi Mix”
Interviewer: As we head towards the release of “Given: To the Sea,” can you tell us about the first part of the two-part movie, “Given: Hiiragi Mix”? What were your thoughts on it?
Yano: In “Hiiragi Mix,” Mafuyu is shown at a turning point in his life as he prepares to graduate from high school. He’s facing the difficult choice of pursuing music professionally, but his hesitation is deeply rooted in his fear that it could affect his relationship with Ritsuka. Mafuyu is at a crossroads, feeling anxious and uncertain, especially as his friends, Hiiragi and Gensumi, seem to have a clearer path ahead.
Preparing for “Given: To the Sea”
Interviewer: What was your approach to portraying Mafuyu in “Given: To the Sea”? Were there any differences in your performance compared to “Hiiragi Mix”?
Yano: The core of Mafuyu’s conflict remains the same—he’s torn between his love for Ritsuka and his passion for music. I didn’t take a drastically different approach for this film. Instead, I focused on maintaining Mafuyu’s emotional depth, especially his internal struggles as he balances his relationship with Ritsuka and his dedication to music.
Mafuyu’s Perspective on Ritsuka and Yuki
Interviewer: The relationships between characters are central to “Given.” How does Mafuyu view Ritsuka Uenoyama and his late childhood friend, Yuki Yoshida?
Yano: Yuki is the one who left music behind for Mafuyu, and Ritsuka is the one who brought him back into it. Both of them are irreplaceable in Mafuyu’s life. They pulled him out of the darkness, and they’re the people he wants to stay beside forever.
Mafuyu’s Growth Throughout the Series
Interviewer: Given that the series has been running since 2019, and it’s now concluding with “Given: To the Sea,” how have you seen Mafuyu grow and change over time?
Yano: Mafuyu has always been a sensitive and timid character, but over time, he’s learned to face both Ritsuka and music head-on. He’s no longer running away. Now, he’s choosing to walk alongside Ritsuka and music, and in doing so, I’ve seen him mature from a boy into a young man.
The Impact of Natsuki Kizu’s Writing
Interviewer: Can you tell us more about what you think makes Natsuki Kizu’s storytelling so compelling?
Yano: What I find remarkable about Kizu’s work is the way it highlights how important it is to love something or someone. “Given” teaches us that these emotions—whether love or hate—are what drive us forward. It’s not always pretty, but it’s real, and that’s what makes it so powerful.
A Final Scene to Look Out For
Interviewer: Lastly, is there a particular scene or moment in “Given: To the Sea” that stands out to you?
Yano: For me, it’s always the scenes between Mafuyu and Ritsuka. My interactions with Yuma Uchida, who voices Ritsuka, feel so natural. There are so many moments where Mafuyu’s true self shines through, and it’s all thanks to the dynamic between the two characters.
As we prepare to say goodbye to “Given” with this final installment, fans can look forward to seeing the culmination of Mafuyu’s journey and the emotional bonds he shares with the people who matter most to him.
Stay tuned for the release of “Given: To the Sea” on September 20, 2024, and experience the heartfelt conclusion to this beloved series.
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