Exploring the Potential Impact of Naruto's Live-Action Adaptation on Anime History

The English dub of the Naruto anime made a memorable translation error that should be kept in the upcoming live-action movie. When translating the original Japanese version into English, the dubbing team had to find equivalent phrases that matched the characters' mouth movements. This resulted in a line in Naruto that fans either really like or absolutely dislike—there's no middle ground. As the popular anime is being transformed into a Lionsgate movie, Naruto's famous catchphrase can also be reimagined.

Naruto has become a well-known Japanese anime series in the United States, so it's no surprise that Hollywood is getting involved. The live-action Naruto movie was announced back in 2015 but has faced delays in development. Avi Arad, known for his work on the live-action Ghost In The Shell movie, is set to produce the Naruto film, which is promising. Additionally, Destin Daniel Cretton, who worked on Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, will be directing and writing the movie, taking on the challenging task of adapting Naruto's story.

The Naruto Movie Should Include The Dub’s “Believe It” Catchphrase

Naruto from the first volume of the manga making a hand sign and holding a scroll in his mouth. - The Naruto Movie Should Include The Dub’s “Believe It” Catchphrase

Cretton, the director of the upcoming live-action Naruto movie, will have various story versions to work with. Lionsgate, producing the Hollywood film in English, will choose between adapting the Naruto manga translation or the English TV dub. The English dub of the anime is notable for giving the main character, Naruto, the catchphrase "Believe it!" which became a defining aspect of his character. This catchphrase was added to the end of many of Naruto's lines, adding charm and irritation in equal measure.

For the live-action Naruto movie to resonate with fans of the dubbed anime, including the iconic catchphrase is essential for success.

Naruto’s “Believe It” English Dub Confusion Explained

Even though the Japanese version of Naruto used the phrase "dattebayo," which doesn't have a direct English translation, Western viewers have become accustomed to hearing the character say "Believe it." It has become so ingrained in the minds of fans that it would be hard to imagine a live-action adaptation not including it. Over time, this catchphrase effectively conveyed Naruto's initial bravado, which later transformed into a more genuine sense of confidence throughout the series. For the upcoming live-action Naruto movie to truly resonate with fans who adored the dubbed anime, keeping this iconic phrase is essential.

An image of Naruto smiling against an orange and yellow background - Naruto’s “Believe It” English Dub Confusion Explained

Custom Image by Debanjana Chowdhury

English dubs are a hot topic among anime fans, sparking endless discussions on whether subtitles or dubbed versions are better. The controversy surrounding Naruto is intensified by the character's famous catchphrase "Believe it," derived from the Japanese term "dattebayo." It's important to note that "dattebayo" is not a typical Japanese phrase but a unique expression specific to Naruto. When translated, it roughly means "it's like I said!" and serves a similar function to the casual English term "yo," which doesn't hold any significant meaning on its own.

Naruto Saying “Believe It” In A Hollywood Movie Would Bring The Franchise Full Circle

It would have perhaps been more logical for the English dub of Naruto to change the character's "dattebayo" phrase to something like "as I said!" or "yo!" Alternatively, following the Naruto manga, they could have omitted the catchphrase from the English translation. Nonetheless, a crucial aspect of dubbing is creating a phrase that is conceptually accurate while still syncing up (more or less) with the character's lip movements. In the end, for better or for worse, the writers of the English version of the anime settled on "Believe it!" as the most fitting choice.

Naruto with red eyes snarling in Naruto the Movie: Ninja Clash in the Land of Snow - Naruto Saying “Believe It” In A Hollywood Movie Would Bring The Franchise Full Circle

The debate over whether Naruto's catchphrase should have been different or removed completely will always remain unanswered. However, "Believe It" holds a special place in fans' hearts for being both memorable and nostalgic. This is why reintroducing it in the upcoming live-action Naruto movie is a brilliant move. It will create a sense of continuity across different formats and help viewers quickly connect with the actor portraying Naruto. Whether the catchphrase is used repeatedly or just once as a subtle reference to the anime, it will surely evoke a sense of closure and bring the story full circle.

The English dub of the Naruto anime is available to stream on Peacock.

Editor's P/S:

The upcoming live-action Naruto movie has the potential to be a major success, and one way to ensure that is by including the iconic "Believe it!" catchphrase. This phrase has become synonymous with Naruto and is a defining part of his character. While it may not be a direct translation of the original Japanese phrase, it has become so ingrained in the minds of fans that it would be hard to imagine a live-action adaptation without it.

Including the "Believe it!" catchphrase would also be a great way to bring the franchise full circle. The English dub of the anime is what introduced many Western fans to Naruto, and the catchphrase is a big part of what made the character so popular. By including it in the live-action movie, Lionsgate would be showing that they understand and appreciate the fans of the anime.