HOW DOES ANIME DUBBING WORK?
Different studios use different methods, but in Los Angeles, the “3 beep” method is most common. The actor is in an isolated booth wearing headphones. In front, is a music stand (for the script) and a TV monitor. Each line is recorded individually (the footage is timecoded to synch up with the recording equipment and for script reference). The actor hears 3 beeps, and where the fourth beep would be, the actor begins their line. In my experience, the actors preview the line in Japanese first to get an idea of the pacing of the mouth flaps, and for the emotional context of the script. The actors see the script and footage for the first time in their session. The director studies the episodes and scripts in advance. So it’s up to the director to convey plot points and motives, and to guide the performance on each take. The actor has to master the technical skill of matching mouth flaps, maintaining a character voice, act, and taking direction. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN UNION AND NON-
