Ghost Stories Dub: Best Hilarious Anime Moments

Hey guys! Get ready to dive into the absolutely bonkers world of Ghost Stories! This anime is legendary, not for its original Japanese version, but for its completely insane English dub. Seriously, it's a masterclass in comedic improvisation and turning a mediocre show into a cult classic. Buckle up, because we're about to explore the best and most hilarious moments from the Ghost Stories dub that have cemented its place in anime history.

Why the Ghost Stories Dub is Legendary

Before we jump into the specific scenes, let's talk about why the Ghost Stories dub is so special. The original anime, honestly, wasn't a huge hit. It was a fairly standard kids' ghost story show. But when ADV Films got the rights to dub it, they decided to take a massive risk. They basically gave the voice actors free rein to rewrite the script and ad-lib lines, turning it into a parody of itself.

The director, Steven Foster, gave the voice actors a basic outline of each episode and the general plot points they needed to hit, but beyond that, they were allowed to improvise and rewrite the dialogue as they saw fit. This resulted in a dub that was completely unhinged, full of offensive jokes, pop culture references, and outlandish characterizations. It was so different from the original that it became a legend in its own right.

The voice actors, including Amanda Winn-Lee, Greg Ayres, and Christine Auten, embraced the freedom and ran with it. They created a dub that was hilarious, shocking, and utterly unforgettable. It's a prime example of how a localization can completely transform a piece of media and give it a new life. It’s a testament to the power of creative freedom and the willingness to take risks.

The Most Hilarious Moments

Alright, let's get to the good stuff! Here are some of the most hilarious and iconic moments from the Ghost Stories dub. Prepare to laugh – and maybe cringe – because these scenes are wild.

1. The 'Are you Christian?' Scene

This scene is probably the most famous moment from the entire dub, and for good reason. In the original Japanese version, the characters are trying to ward off a ghost with Buddhist prayers. But in the dub, Satsuki asks the ghost, "Are you Christian? If you're not, you better get out of here!"

This line is so out-of-left-field and unexpected that it's instantly hilarious. It's a perfect example of the dub's willingness to be completely irreverent and make fun of everything, including religion. The delivery by Hilary Haag as Satsuki is absolutely perfect, selling the line with a mix of genuine concern and utter ridiculousness. It’s become a meme and a catchphrase among anime fans, and it perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the dub.

2. The 'That's Racist!' Compilation

One of the recurring gags in the Ghost Stories dub is its frequent use of offensive jokes. While some people might find this controversial, it's undeniable that these jokes are often hilarious in their absurdity. The dub doesn't shy away from making fun of anything and everything, and this includes racial stereotypes.

There are numerous instances where the characters make outrageous comments that would be considered highly offensive in any other context. But because the dub is so self-aware and over-the-top, these jokes often land as being so bad they're good. It's a risky move, but it's one that the Ghost Stories dub pulls off with surprising success. The constant, almost gleeful, dropping of what would be considered racist remarks is a bizarre highlight that you won’t find anywhere else.

3. Miyanoshita Keichiro's Unhinged Rants

Keiichiro, Satsuki's younger brother, is a constant source of comedic gold in the dub. His voice actor, Greg Ayres, completely nails the character's whiny and annoying personality, turning him into a lovable brat. But what really makes Keiichiro stand out are his unhinged rants.

Whenever Keiichiro gets scared or frustrated, he goes off on hilarious tangents, often involving pop culture references and outlandish comparisons. His delivery is always over-the-top and exaggerated, making his rants incredibly funny. He's the perfect comedic foil to Satsuki's more serious demeanor, and his rants are always a highlight of any episode. For a masterclass in annoying younger brother, watch the dub.

4. The 'Godzilla' Reference

In one episode, the characters encounter a giant, rampaging monster. In the original Japanese version, they simply refer to it as a monster. But in the dub, one of the characters immediately compares it to Godzilla.

This simple reference is incredibly effective because it's so unexpected and relatable. It's a perfect example of how the dub uses pop culture references to enhance the humor and make the show more accessible to Western audiences. It's a small moment, but it's one that perfectly captures the spirit of the dub. It’s a simple addition that makes a world of difference.

5. The 'Back to the Future' bit

During one of the episodes, Momoko, known for her devout faith and often strange comments, makes an unprompted reference to Back to the Future. The line comes completely out of left field as she shouts "Great Scott!" in a strained voice. It has nothing to do with the plot, but everything to do with making the audience laugh.

The inclusion of the iconic phrase is so random it adds another layer to Momoko’s character. It solidifies the fact that the writers were more than willing to go off on any tangent they could think of. The line delivery is perfect, making it one of the most memorable ad-libs in the entire series. It's a testament to how much fun the voice actors were having and how willing they were to just throw in whatever came to mind.

Why the Ghost Stories Dub Still Matters

The Ghost Stories dub is more than just a collection of funny moments. It's a cultural phenomenon that has had a lasting impact on the anime community. It's a reminder that localization can be a creative art form and that taking risks can sometimes lead to amazing results.

The dub's unpredictability and willingness to be offensive have made it a favorite among fans who are tired of safe and formulaic anime. It's a show that doesn't take itself seriously, and that's a big part of its appeal. It's a celebration of humor, improvisation, and the power of creative freedom.

So, if you've never seen the Ghost Stories dub, do yourself a favor and check it out. Just be prepared to be shocked, offended, and laughing hysterically. It's an experience you won't soon forget. You might even find yourself quoting it for years to come. Trust me, it's that good. Just be ready for anything – because with the Ghost Stories dub, you never know what's coming next!

In conclusion, the Ghost Stories dub remains a shining example of what happens when creators are given the freedom to be truly creative. It's a wild ride from start to finish, filled with unforgettable moments and laugh-out-loud jokes. It’s a must-watch for any anime fan with a sense of humor and a tolerance for the absurd. So go ahead, dive in, and prepare to be amazed by the unhinged brilliance of the Ghost Stories dub! You won't regret it! And if you do, well, at least you'll have a good story to tell. 😉