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Bakuage Sentai Boonboomger Character Book: Bark out! Get on! Main Cast & Voice Actor Interviews (translations below)

Publication: July 26, 2024

Iuchi Haruhi x Hayama Yuki x Suzuki Miu Saito Ryu x Soma Satoru x Miyazawa Yu

"We'd like you to introduce the main characters while telling us what you think about each from the point of view of the character you play. Now then everyone, if you'd please start by introducing Taiya."

Hayama: Ishiro, the character I play, has known Taiya for quite a long time, but even Ishiro has trouble reading many of his words and actions. Before meeting Taiya, he was a person who didn't exist in Ishiro's world, so he's endlessly curious about him. The same is true for all the other members besides Ishiro, who wondered about Taiya and thought, "What kind of person is this guy? It seems like interesting things will happen if we're together," which caused the number of Boonboomger members to increase. I think Taiya's a person of great charm who can draw people in. As for myself personally, I believe that as the story progresses, more of Taiya's good and interesting qualities will be depicted.

Suzuki: Taiya's the type of person who talks by showing by example.

Iuchi: I feel like I'm the one being praised, it makes me somewhat happy (he laughs shyly).

Suzuki: You can find people like him in your school class. The charismatic one, or the kind of person who's naturally at the center of attention.

Saito: From Jou's point of view, Taiya's someone he admirers, he's the very image of a hero that he dreams of. That's why when he learns in Bakuage 8 that the original reason for the formation of the Boonboomgers wasn't to be righteous heroes who fight evil, he becomes confused and resentful, as he feels that it was such a departure from his ideal image. However, after coming around and understanding his idea in depth, I think he still trusts and admires him. Sometimes I feel that Taiya also responds to Jou's trust in him when they fight the Kurumaju. (he turns toward Iuchi) They sometimes fight together, right?

Iuchi: It happens sometimes. Like when the opponent was Block Wall Grumer in Bakuage 7.

Saito: Jou's able to jump over the blocks with the help of Taiya. He also guides Jou outside of battle, so he still sees him as a trustworthy leader.

Soma: Genba became a member of the Boonboomgers in Bakuage 7, but he knew about Taiya since Bakuage 1, and has had a connection with him for quite some time, so I think he has a stronger trust in Taiya than with the others. Both of their pasts and the relationship between the two hasn't been revealed yet, so that's one of the points I'm looking forward to seeing in the future.

Miyazawa: It's difficult to state what Sakito thinks of Taiya. When they first met, there was a part of him that looked down on Boonboomger itself, but since Taiya has exceeded his expectations by acting differently from what he imagined, he must be starting to think that it'll be okay to accept Taiya. Sakito hasn't been able to be honest (laughs), but I think those feelings in Sakito will change into something more passionate in the future. However, at the time of this mooks release, things still feel alittle delicate (laughs).

Suzuki: Still, Sakito said to Taiya in Bakuage 18, "If only there had been an adult like you back then," so I have a feeling that he doesn't hate Taiya.

Miyazawa: He doesn't hate him. But he still doesn't want to fully admit it, or rather, he didn't intend on becoming friends with Taiya and the others. However, over time since their encounter, he's seen things like how Taiya fights and interacts with people, and he understands that Taiya has something that Sakito doesn't, so I feel that he's stuck between not wanting to admit it and being attracted towards him.

Iuchi: I feel that when I play the role. That's why Taiya's in the process of trying to take more and more steps towards Sakito.

Suzuki: It seems like an unusual pattern, doesn't it? Mira and the others want to follow Taiya and understand him more, but Taiya doesn't come on to them that strongly. With Sakito however, Taiya makes the first move.

Iuchi: For Taiya, he seems to have a tendency to be pushy before becoming friends, and then quietly watches over them once they do become friends.

Suzuki: It's almost like being in love, don't you think? He's like…the kind of person who's initially very eager, but when it comes time for us to like him, he stops caring about us (laughs).

All: Ahahaha! (laughs).

Hayama: Ishiro's victim number 1! While in a state of falling apart, he decides to follow Taiya, who told him, "I like you," but now he acts very cold towards him…

Iuchi: Hold up! (laughs). I'd like to add an additional explanation for the sake of Taiya's honor. Up until around Bakuage 9, for the times when it was just him and Boonboom (Bundorio), and the times when it was just him and the other members, I used to change up my performance alittle. He recognizes them as his friends, but he doesn't completely give up the passenger's seat, or trusts them enough to let them watch his back…I played the role with the impression that the only person Taiya could show his true self to was in front of Boonboom. And yet, after Bakuage 9, which was a turning point in the story, I changed my mind alittle. Because he feels that he has to lead everyone, there's a part of Taiya that unconsciously tries to be cool, but I think I realized in that episode that he was being dragged along by his friends. After that, the way he treats everyone is similar to when he's with Boonboom. I try to play the role with the feeling that he's dragging them along, but that they're also dragging him along.

Hayama: Ummm, can I ask you a question? You say he entrusted Boonboom to have his back before Bakuage 9, but couldn't he have entrusted it to Ishiro…?

Suzuki: Chasshiro's acting jealous! (laughs).

Iuchi: He of course has a high level of trust in Chasshiro, however, the point is that he's spent more time together with Boonboom than he has with him. For the times when it's just Taiya and Boonboom, the times when it's the three of them - Taiya, Boonboom and Chasshiro, and for the times when he's with everyone else, each causes my performance to change alittle bit.

"Now, on to the next. Can you tell us about Ishiro?"

Hayama: (looking at them with anticipation).

All: (a few moments of silence).

Hayama: Why is it always like this for Ishiro?!

Saito: No, we're just thinking (laughs).

Iuchi: I feel that Chasshiro's a really cute character to watch. This is true as Taiya, but also as myself. Before filming began, a staff member said in regards to Chasshiro, "He's a person who's not quick to acknowledge others, but when he does, he admits it. That's because he sees the person for who they really are," which I think is absolutely true. He's probably more attentive to each of them than Taiya, and he'll change the way he treats each one to suit them, which I think is what makes him cute. And then, when something happens to Taiya……for example, when Sakito says something to Taiya, Chasshiro's the first one to jump on him, which is what I also like about him. Even if Taiya also feels this way, he's reluctant to tell Chasshiro and just laughs.

Hayama: As Ishiro, I believe that my role is to calm Taiya down, which is why I confront right from the start. Ishiro doesn't care who he has to go through, he'll intervene to help him calm down by saying, "Just think about it for a moment."

Saito: Wouldn't you say he responds differently to the people and things that Taiya approves of?

Hayama: Of course!

Soma: It's like he has to see for himself what Taiya's OK with.

Hayama: That's right. Since Taiya's preferences are unexpectedly wide, Ishiro feels like he has to judge them properly.

Miyazawa: I think it's similar to what Byundi is to Sakito. Boonboom doesn't appear in battles with the Hashiriyans, does he? After the Kurumaju becomes giant though, he fights as the Boonboomgers Robo. However, Chasshiro always fights beside and in front of Taiya. In this respect, it gives me the impression that he's the same as Byundi for Sakito.

Saito: The person Chasshiro likes the most really is Taiya, huh?

Suzuki: Everyone knows that Chasshiro likes Taiya, but at the same time, I wonder what Taiya thinks of Chasshiro.

Hayama: I think Chasshiro is undoubtedly in love with Taiya as a person. He seems like a person he wants to follow from the bottom of his heart.

Suzuki: Yuki-kun shines the most when he's talking about Chasshiro, and he really has a great desire to get close to the character more than anyone else. When he gets an opportunity to talk like this, he can't stop. Every time he does, I think about how much he loves Chasshiro.

Hayama: I love him!!

Soma: That's why you don't let others speak for you, you'd rather say everything yourself (laughs).

"Next, please follow this up with Mira."

Soma: I feel that she's been a key player in every episode that's been aired over Boonboomgers past 20 episodes, or rather, she's the one who supports this story.

Suzuki: Since she works part time jobs in a variety of places, she has the advantage of being flexible and adaptable to any story!

Saito: Still, I have a feeling that the Hashiriyans will show up at Mira's part time jobs. Like a certain great detective…

Soma: Because an incident happens everywhere she goes? (laughs).

Saito: Right. I can't help but consider that Mira might be Hashiriyan (laughs).

Suzuki: (laughs). Regarding future developments, there's still alot we don't know about yet, so that kind of development isn't impossible.

Miyazawa: All things considered, I think it's great that our only female member has a personality that allows her to interact with everyone without any barriers. She was working together with Genba in Bakuage 10 and Chasshiro in Bakuage 14, and regardless of who she's paired with, it doesn't feel out of place.

Suzuki: This is something I'm conscious of when acting. In addition, I'm careful and try not to look like I'm a couple with anyone.

Saito: So far, she and Jou have never faced an incident as a pair before, but they're often together in the garage. I think this is because Mira and Jou have similar cheerful personalities, so they tend to often be together in lively scenes. In Bakuage 13, when Boonboom Marine and Boonboom Safari were activated, Mira says to Jou, "Let's have a match to see who can gain their approval first!," to which Jou agrees. I feel that they're often excited together like that.

Iuchi: Well then, how do you think Mira looks from Jou's perspective?

Saito: I guess she's like a big sister you can rely on. They compete with each other equally, but I think Jou feels that Mira's dragging him along anyways.

Iuchi: Mira was the first one to join the Boonboomgers, so I think there's a part of him that recognizes her as his senior.

Miyazawa: He addressed her as "Mira-san."

Suzuki: Now that you mention it, at first it was "Mira Senpai," but now it's "Mira-san."

Iuchi: As Taiya, my impression of Mira is that even when she's alone, I can expect her to do something unexpected. Sometimes unexpected chemistry occurs when members are paired with each other, but as an individual, Mira exceeds my expectations.

Suzuki: Like in Bakuage 3.

Miyazawa: In Bakuage 20 too!

Iuchi: I think Taiya loves that kind of Mira.

"Next, we'd like to hear about Jou."

Suzuki: Jou is…cute! He's so sweet. He's like a dog, with the image I have of him being to faithfully follow someone's lead.

Soma: He always has an incredible amount of energy, no? Still, there are also times when his raw emotions clearly come out. This could be seen in Bakuage 15, where he develops a friendship with a Kurumaju.

Miyazawa: They were also in that episode, but Jou's actions and words impress me every time.

Hayama: In Bakuage 6, after being attacked by the Kurumaju, Ishiro exclaimed, "You're the purest shade of black in the whole world!!" (laughs), unintentionally revealing how he really feels. While it may have been due to the influence of the Kurumaju, I think Ishiro sees Jou as, "The person I've shown my shameful side to."

Saito: When they get involved with each other, Jou will sometimes tease Chasshiro, but I believe that's because of the change in his relationship with Chasshiro since Bakuage 6.

Miyazawa: We fought ATM Grumer in Bakuage 19, and I felt that the subordinate vibes Jou had at that time were amazing (laughs). When we were attacked, Chasshiro said, "Everyone, get behind Jou!" treating him as a shield, and when Sakito asked, "You as broke as me?" he replied, "No, I mean…"

Saito: Hahaha (laughs).

Iuchi: He's a police officer who's very diligent, but maybe he's not the type of guy to lead the Boonboomgers.

Suzuki: He's diligent and extremely kind, so everyone likes him, and he's the kind of character that can be anyone's subordinate!

Saito: Is that supposed to be a compliment? (laughs) I certainly can't deny that he feels like a subordinate, but…

Soma: Don't worry about it. Jou's the kind of person you'd hope to have at a police station.

Miyazawa: Being a police officer means you're not just doing your Boonboomger activities, you're doing your job properly every day. That's honorable!

Iuchi: Jou's got a strong heart.

Suzuki: Right. I think it's because of that strong heart that Bakuage 15 was such a touching episode.

Iuchi: He wouldn't even take down the Kurumaju since it didn't attack people. Once he made up his mind, for the sake of proving to Taiya that the Kurumaju was safe, he suggests, "I'll spend the night with it tonight and prove it to you!," and that if the Kurumaju got out of control, he'd take care of it himself. Jou being able to make such decisions is one of his good points. While he may have some subordinate vibes, you can tell that he has confidence in himself.

Suzuki: For that episode, I cried during the dub recording stage, when things like the sound effects weren't even added in yet. That's how explosive his performance was!

Saito: I'm grateful to Director Hayama Koichiro for his help. Director Hayama also has a strong heart within him that demands "more!," and I believe that this is the reason why we were able to create such a moving story.

Miyazawa: Because he has a strong heart, there's something endearing about Jou. I think it's wonderful to have juniors who have confidence in themselves, as opposed to juniors who just follow along and say, "Senpa~i!" I can feel that they're not just trying to sweet talk me, but that they really admire me. I think the feelings I have towards Jou are similar to that.

Suzuki: It's certainly cute enough to follow along, but it also builds respect from the seniors side.

Miyazawa: Right. It's the Hayama Yuki type! (laughs).

All: Ahahahaha! (laughs).

Hayama:…Are you teasing me?

Iuchi: I'm pretty sure it's a compliment.

"Continuing, we'd like to know about Genba. Despite appearing since Bakuage 1, he's also a mysterious character."

Soma: That's true…(he hugs his shoulders).

Miyazawa: You trying to hide something by posing like that? (laughs).

Soma: Fufufu (laughs).

Suzuki: The impression I get is that he's a person who speaks softly and says stuff like, "It's XX isn't it?

Saito: When we were first given an explanation of the characters, I remember being told that Jou was more "rigid" and that Genba was "soft." So, he's not the exact opposite of Jou, but I imagine him to be in a contrasting position.

Iuchi: As Satoru-kun mentioned earlier, the relationship between Taiya and Genba hasn't been made clear, but they may have history as long or even longer than Taiya and Chasshiro. They don't say much to each other, and don't get weirdly clingy, but I see their relationship as one of trusting each other without words, knowing that the other will take action when needed and do what's necessary.

Soma: That's right. I think he provoked Chasshiro abit in Bakuage 9, saying things like, "The informer really spoils Taiya" and "You're a child, aren't you?," but once they started fighting together again, I think he started thinking, "This is how the informer should be, so I'll do this."

Iuchi: There's a trusting relationship between Chasshiro and Genba too, don't you think? It's different from the one with Taiya, where it's more like they're business partners who appreciate each other professionally.

Hayama: That's what I think.

Suzuki: Genba's strong point is to compensate. Rather than pushing the Boonboomgers forward, it's more like he's supporting them from behind.

Soma: He said that before joining the Boonboomgers. It was, "I'll keep you guys supplied, help you develop, and see it through." However, since they started fighting together, I think his feelings toward everyone have changed over time. I think at first, deep down, he felt indifferent towards them, but I feel like things have changed alittle.

Suzuki: When Mira and Genba were transporting the delivery in Bakuage 10, Genba stopped and told her about himself. He said, "I'm not sure how serious I am when it comes to myself. That's why this time, I decided to take on the delivery mission that you guys get so absorbed in." It was a moment when he opened up his heart to us, and I felt that he's grown alittle closer since then.

Soma: That was a rare scene where Genba talked about himself. That scene was probably my longest line as of now. He's not the type of character to talk much, and certainly not about himself.

Suzuki: Also, at the end of Bakuage 10, when Mira asked, "Do I tend to be used as bait?" Genba said, "Mira, you were of great help." From my own perspective, I thought that scene was very adult of him. It was like calming a small child (laughs) who's looking at things objectively.

Iuchi: Genba makes alot of statements that seem to be foreshadowing or hold hidden meaning. It's going to be key to the story going forward.

Miyazawa: For Sakito, he has a way of using his words to deliberately stir things up with Taiya and Chasshiro in an attempt to make them emotional. However, Genba doesn't respond even when he provokes him. I have a feeling that this is where Sakito feels that something's not right. He's not trying to get to know him that deeply, but he doesn't give the reaction he's looking for, so he's an intriguing character.

Suzuki: That's for sure, I don't really understand Genba. Him fitting into the MBTI is the one thing I can't imagine (personality test that sorts personalities into 16 different types).

Soma: I see~! (laughs).

Saito: Is Genba…the 17th type? (laughs).

Miyazawa: Speaking of, what type do you imagine Mira to be?

Suzuki: I think of her as an ESFP, the entertainer type!

Miyazawa: Hmmm~. It'd be interesting to apply that into the role.

"Since you mentioned that Genba's an adult, we have to ask, how do you see the age order of the six members?"

Iuchi: Sakito is the oldest. Next is Genba, then Taiya…

Hayama: I think Ishiro's after that.

Suzuki: For Mira, I was told that she's around 20 years old.

Saito: What about Jou? If we assume that he just graduated from high school, entered the police academy, completed his internship, and was only just assigned to his current police station, he'd be around 20 years old or so?

Soma: Well then, I guess Mira and Jou aren't really that different.

Saito: Jou addresses everyone with "-san" which gives off the impression of him being the youngest, but…

Suzuki: Although Mira's younger in age, she's his senior among the Boonboomgers, so I think that's why he calls her "Mira-san."

"Maybe it's not based on the number of years since your acting debut, but on the time you've been a Boonboomger. Now, let's get back on the topic, please tell us about Sakito."

Hayama: BoonViolet's suit is so cool!

Saito: That bow (Boonboom Controller's Bowgun Mode) is really nice~.

Miyazawa: Let's not just talk about appearance! (laughs)…but, I guess it can't be helped. With the exception of Taiya, he hasn't interacted that much with anyone.

Iuchi: Well then, I'll speak as Taiya. I think that when he looks at Sakito, he feels like he's seeing his younger self. This is all just my guess, but Taiya probably went through alot when he was a child, and I feel that he can relate to some of the things Sakito says.

Saito: I also had similar thoughts when I read the script. That's why Taiya's so enthusiastic over Sakito. I think that in his own past, he experienced something similar to what Sakito experienced, and things went in the wrong direction, so he wants to pull Sakito up and save him.

Miyazawa: For Sakito, who isn't aware of his circumstance, he can't help but think, "You're trying to meddle in my private affairs…"

Suzuki: Still, I feel that Taiya's acting in a properly calculated manner. Mira would get involved unconsciously, but Taiya seems to decide how far he'll go before making a move.

Iuchi: And then, he'll properly hold back.

Saito: Once he's gone as far as he can, he'll take a step back. He steps back with the confidence of, "Now the rest will follow."

Iuchi: What does everyone think of Sakito? Chasshiro, how do you feel?

Hayama: Taiya seems to trust him, so he allows him to enter the deliverer's garage, but I get the feeling that Ishiro's always on his guard. I'd say he only trusts him about 10-20%. Isn't Genba the same way?

Soma: Yeah. Sakito was born on Earth, but he's been connected to the Hashiriyans in space for some time, so Genba's in a position where he doesn't fully trust him. That's why Genba doesn't show his hand, and I think he puts up a kind of wall between them that says, "Don't get any closer."

"Going even further, we'd also like to ask about the characters that are closely associated with the Boonboomgers. Can you tell us about Bundorio Bunderas?"

Saito: At the end of the day, Jou and Boon-san are very good friends.

Suzuki: Jou and Mira are very good friends with him.

Saito: Yeah. Boon-san teases them, and they'll often hang out together. That's why it seems to me that the way he gets involved is different for Jou, Mira, and everyone else. There are still many aspects of his involvement with Sakito that we don't understand…

Soma: In terms of the emotions of the characters, Mira and Jou are cheerful, while the rest are calm, so the way they interact with Boonboom will probably also change.

Iuchi: Still, with how they've dragged him along in the past, Boonboom is pretty emotional.

Hayama: When you first read the script, didn't you think his character would be cuter? I think I spoke about this with Miu-chan before. She said that when Matsumoto Rika-san's voice was added, it changed her interpretation.

Suzuki: It felt like I had been given a new way of interpreting him. In my mind, I had the image of a "cute boy," but when Matsumoto-san's voice was added, he turned into a cute, yet simple minded and energetic young man.

Iuchi: I get you, I get you.

Saito: In the beginning, I think Suit Actor Yohei-san's performance was also cuter. But it felt nice with the footage that included Matsumoto-san's voice. I guess this is the power of Matsumoto-san's voice.

"And now for Byun Diesel. Since he's only been around for a short time and hasn't had much interaction with characters other than Sakito, we'll leave it up to your own impressions."

Hayama: I'm just gonna say it, I think he's unfair.

Saito: That's right. It's unfair that Byundi's able to fight alone!

Iuchi: I see. Boonboom has to combine with the Boonboom Cars, so…

Saito: Byundi can fight on his own and is strong. He can fly too!

Hayama: When he becomes a Robo, his helmet changes shape and his eyes appear!

Miyazawa: He's impressive, huh? Sakito can be rather harsh, but Byundi's voice is calm and makes me feel that he's paying attention to his surroundings. Hanae Natsuki-san is the voice of Byundi, and when I was allowed to observe his recording, hearing Hanae-san's voice impressed me, and all at once my picture of Byundi's character became clear. At that moment, I felt like I finally grasped "what kind of character Byundi was." Suit Actor Takada Masashi-san was also observing the recording, and I'd like to think that that's where Takada-san got the ideas for what movements would be best. From Hanae-san's performance, I had the feeling that the image of Byundi was shared by everyone.

"The members of this production are quite the unique individuals. We're also looking forward to the film "Promise the Circuit," which releases in theaters on July 26."

Iuchi: We filmed it at Fuji Speedway!

Saito: Man, it was amazing!

Soma: We could see Mt. Fuji. I've never filmed at a place like that before, so I was overwhelmed.

Iuchi: The guest cast is also extravagant, and it was really cool when we all simultaneously Boonboom Changed at the end. It's a film that will seriously crank you up when you see it. And then……(he's deep in thought).

Soma: "Seems like you're in trouble" (laughs). The movie is what you'd call a self homage to Bakuage 1 of the TV series, or rather, there's a girl who can't gain control of her own wheel.

Saito: That was Mira in Bakuage 1, but now that Mira's become a Boonboomger, how will they treat this girl?

Iuchi: The film shows the growth of the characters!

Hayama: The simultaneous Change that Haruhi mentioned is also a big highlight, with each of us having our own cool moments. Both the informer and procurer play an active role in their fields.

Suzuki: This film is a compilation of the best parts of Boonboomger, and I'm sure that it'll leave you thrilled!

Miyazawa: Please make sure you go see it in theaters!

"Iuchi-san, on behalf of everyone, please give a message to the fans of the show!"

Iuchi: For the title of this mook, "Bark out! Get On!," If you pronounce it like a native speaker, it becomes "Bakuagero!" It's a fine title, and I think you'll enjoy the many fun pictures of everyone in it. And then, please support Boonboomger as we crank up even more from now on!

Matsumoto Rika

"When it was decided that Matsumoto-san would be involved in Boonboomger, she was first asked to record the voice for the Boonboom Changer and other toys, and from there, she was offered the role of Bundorio Bunderas. What kind of character was described to you at the time?"

Matsumoto: That he was a good friend of Taiya, the main character, and that despite looking like a robot, he was a life form from outer space. There was no particular description of his personality, and they told me that I could play the role however I saw fit.

"What were your thoughts when you saw Bundorio's voice and movements combined in the broadcast?"

Matsumoto: When I recorded the voice for the toys before playing Bundorio, I was quite enthusiastic. I want the toys to be something children can become attached to. When a child picks up a toy and plays its sounds, it cheers them up, gives them courage, and it distracts them from their loneliness….I wanted it to be that kind of toy, so I put that feeling into my voice. After that, I had the opportunity to appear in the TV series, and I gradually began to realize that children were watching me, which made me very happy. Until last year, I played the role of the main character in a long beloved anime for 26 years, so I have a strong sense of responsibility toward children. Now, it's time to cheer up children with Boonboomger. Including children, I have a great desire to crank up the spirits of everyone who watches.

"Have you spoken with Fujita Yohei-san, the Suit Actor for Bundorio?"

Matsumoto: To be honest, we still haven't met yet. During filming, Fujita-san says the lines as he performs, and I can hear his voice when I'm recording. So, I know how he's performing on set, and I also feel that I have to infuse my voice so that Fujita-san's movements appear more vividly on screen! We work together to create the role, or rather, he and I simultaneously become one, and I try to perform in a way that'll make people feel like my voice and the power of my words are really coming from Bundorio. To be honest, alot of the lines are improvised (laughs). However, it's because I improvise that I can say "Bundorio's genuine words," ones born out of the impulse of each moment, and I believe that they'll reach everyone.

"What direction is Matsumoto-san taking in her performance as Bundorio?"

Matsumoto: Since Taiya has a rather cool feel to him, I wanted to give Bundorio abit of a comedic element, and I want to make him a charming character that people will love. While he has the appearance of a robot, he's a character who's vulnerable and has a heart overflowing with humanity, so I hope that viewers will feel his humanity and become emotionally attached with this life form. I hope that people can see the uncool parts of Bundorio as cool. However, I want to express myself in a realistic way, without being deliberate in my expressions. Bundorio's a challenging role to play, so I hope to make him more exciting from now on.

"As Bundorio, you sing the ED song "KotsuKotsu PONPON" and the insert song "Curry is spicy but beautiful."

Matsumoto: In our first meeting I said, "I hope the ED will be fun, have dancing, and will put a smile on peoples faces as we say, "See you next week!," and that's how we created the song "KotsuKotsu PONPON." In the beginning, the start of the ED song was just Bundorio bowing, but when I watched the broadcast, I wanted to add some lines, so I asked them to record my voice, saying, "I doesn't matter if you use it or not." And just like that, starting with the ED for Bakuage 10, Bundorio's greeting of, "We're all here. Let's get cranked up!" was added.

"So that's how it all started. Speaking of, do you have any favorite lyrics?"

Matsumoto: In the ED, when Bundorio's the only one in the spotlight, he sings, "Everyone is different, and that's alright, so be proud of who you are." Now that I think about it, the last part was initially, "You and you~and you and you together." However, when I selfishly asked, "I'd like to see the words "laugh" included in the lyrics" they agreed.

"There are many beautiful lyrics scattered throughout the song. The song "Curry is spicy but beautiful" is a cheerful song that's typical of Bundorio, who's good at making curry."

Matsumoto: My personality is a very eager one (laughs), that's why I suggested to the staff, "It'd be nice to have a song about curry that incorporates Bundorio's identity." And so, they wrote a song about how to make curry. Every household has their own taste for curry, and it's all alittle different, isn't it? With that in mind, recording it gave me a kind of warm feeling.

"At the time of this publication's release, the show has aired up to Bakuage 21, but which episodes have left a lasting impression on you?"

Matsumoto: It's Bakuage 15. I cried while performing in the studio. The story is focused on Jou and Keytarou (Kaseki Grumer), and Bundorio's in a situation where he doesn't have much of an attachment to Keytarou. Still, since Bundorio transforms into the giant Boonboomger Robo and fights Keytarou, he has to link his feelings with those of Jou, who's piloting the Robo. I recorded multiple takes of the scene where he delivers the final blow to Keytarou, but I struggled with how I should say it to convey the sadness of the scene. Then there's Bakuage 9. Cracks start to form in between everyone's relationships, or rather, it's an episode of emotional conflict. There were some serious performances and Bundorio had alot of lines, so it was particularly memorable. And then, I of course still really love Bakuage 1! It had alot of momentum and energy, and it really made me feel energized. When my mood is alittle low and I watch, it blows all my negative feelings away. I always try to do the recordings with the feeling of, "I don't care if my voice doesn't come out the next day!" (laughs).

"What kind of scene would you like to perform as Bundorio?"

Matsumoto: I think it'd be interesting to see a so called "deviation," where the Hashiriyans take over his body and he becomes evil. It'd be like fighting against your own heart and the hearts of your friends, and their bonds prevail.

"That sounds interesting. Finally, please give a message to the fans."

Matsumoto: Every Sunday morning I watch Boonboomger, and I'm working on this production with the hope that the week that follows will be incredibly happy, bright and energetic, so I hope you enjoy looking forward to it. It's airing so quickly, that 21 episodes have gone by in no time at all, but I'll continue to give my all and do my best from now on, so I look forward to your support!

Hanae Natsuki

"Since Byun Diesel made his entrance in Bakıage 16, what kind of feedback have you received?"

Hanae: I received quite abit of feedback on SNS, and a classmate of mine from elementary and middle school, who I was also super into the Super Sentai series with, contacted me and said, "So you're finally gonna be in Super Sentai!"

"On that note, which series were you most into?"

Hanae: I remember watching "Kyoryu Sentai Zyuranger" and "Gosei Sentai Dairanger" when I was still young enough to remember them. I was particularly obsessed with "Ninpu Sentai Hurricanger" and "Bakuryu Sentai Abaranger."

"This is your first time performing in a tokusatsu production. How do you feel it's different from recording for an anime?"

Hanae: Often times, there are unscripted lines or I'll have to adlib. Since Byundi's Suit Actor, Takada Masashi-san, performs various movements during filming, I'll sometimes receive instructions from the staff during recording like, "Please add some lines to match with the movements here." I felt that the need to have quick thinking to immediately come up with something interesting on the spot was necessary. What surprised me when I watched the broadcast was the speed of the CG and battle scenes. Since I haven't had many opportunities to watch the Super Sentai series since becoming an adult, but I was impressed by how they had retained the good qualities of the past while also making use of new technology, and I cried alittle because I was affected by my childhood memories.

"What kind of character do you see Byundi as?"

Hanae: His position is that he's the rival of Bundorio Bunderas, and since Bundorio has a lively personality, I initially thought of him as a sort of contrast, someone who's a mature and cool character. He's still cool at his core, but as the story progresses, I'm discovering that Byundi also has a mischievous, a passionate, and a kind side to him. I thought it'd be more enjoyable if I could show Byundi's various expressions, so I've been consulting with the Director of each episode and adjusting the direction of his personality.

"What's your impression of Sakito Homura, Byundi's partner?"

Hanae: He's the confident "Ore-sama" type, and even though he made his appearance in the middle of the show, he's got a presence that seems to say, "I've been here from the beginning," which is really cool. As for Byundi, he's been with Sakito since he was a child, so he must see things from the perspective of a parent. He trusts him, and he wants to leave things up to Sakito's better judgment, but he also can't help but worry. It's like, "I wonder, will my child be able to handle this properly?" (laughs). However, it's not just that he's watching over him, I think he feels that they're like brothers who can share their joys together, so I feel like he treats him with a wide range of emotions.

"In addition to Sakito, another character closely associated with Byundi is Bundorio Bunderas."

Hanae: Bundorio's a character who livens up the place just by being there, and I also like the way he interacts with Byundi. In Bakuage 19, we see a flashback of Bundorio choosing a safe detour in front of the Milky Way, which had been an obstacle in past races, and Byundi jumping over it to claim first place. Still, instead of bragging about it, Byundi told Bundorio, "That race is long over…just leave it behind already." Even though they're rivals, I think they're a wonderful pair who recognize each other.

"Still, there are also depictions of Bundorio saying and doing things that make him feel inferior to Byundi."

Hanae: I think Byundi's a gentleman. Because he acknowledges Bundorio, he always fights at full power. As a result, Byundi's race results are better than his, but he doesn't look down on him. Although, that may be where Bundorio feels inferior. On the other hand, there's a scene where Bundorio told Byundi that he "couldn't face him," but when Byundi was in trouble, he rushed to the scene to help him. They help and support each other, so it's a wonderful relationship.

"The one providing Bundorio's voice is Matsumoto Rika-san."

Hanae: She's played the main character in a long running anime series that I've watched since I was a child, so I've listened to her voice for a long time and have great respect for her. So,I'm happy and nervous to be able to work with her. It's kind of a strange feeling, don't you think? The idea of crossing paths as rivals with a character who speaks with a voice that I've heard since childhood. For live action actors, when you work with actors you've watched since childhood, you inevitably end up playing the role of parent and child, right? I don't know the exact ages of Byundi and the others (laughs), but I think the real thrill of being a Voice Actor is that I'm able to play characters who are probably rivals of the same generation together with people of different generations.

"Hanae-san also does the voice of the Boonboom Controller, an item used by Sakito in the show and that's also being sold as a toy."

Hanae: First, they talked about recording the voice of the Boonboom Controller, and after that, I was asked to provide the character's voice. The Boonboom Controller is really cool. It looks like a wheel, it can change into Bowgun Mode, and it emits my voice when the commands are entered. The toys we played with as children are special treasures that we remember even as adults. For the children who enjoy the show, I hope the Boonboom Controller will be the same. I'm glad and grateful to be apart of their memories.

"At the time of this publication's release, the show has aired up to Bakuage 21, so please tell us your favorite episodes or scenes."

Hanae: In Bakuage 19, Byundi calls out to Bundorio, "Use my wings." The development of the Robo piloted by BoonRed and the others being powered up with parts from the additional warrior was hot. And then in Bakuage 18, I also liked the conversation between Sakito and his friend Osada Kakeru. Kakeru says to him, "I've been looking for you," but Sakito thinks he's talking about the card, so Kakeru has to tell him, "I'm talking about you!"……It makes me cry thinking about how all alone Sakito must've felt at the time.

"The motif of this show is based on cars, do you have any memories related to cars?"

Hanae: Around the time I was 25 or 26, I decided to get a driver's license and went to a driving school with my wife. I was working as an MC for a morning variety show at the time, so I would go to driving school at around 8 a.m. after the live broadcast to take just one or two lessons, and then head out to the set at 10 a.m…..I did that for about three months. I think I did a pretty good job (laughs).

"That sounds hard…Finally, please give a message to our readers."

Hanae: Although Sakito and I joined in the middle of the show, in the midst of many charming characters, I hope I can play the role of Byundi as well as the other members who have been in the show for a long time. I hope that you'll continue to support me!

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