Kodocha English Sub & Dub

About Kodocha

Kodocha (こどものおもちゃ) arrives as a comedy anime by Studio Gallop (1996), and the premise is easy to summarize. At its core: Sana Kurata has a charmed life. Not only is her mother is a famous, award-winning writer, but she's the star of the hit TV comedy "Child's Toy" while still in the fifth grade.

Beyond that: Sana's biggest concern is Akito Hayama, a pint-sized hellion who's organized the boys in their grade-school class into a mass of unending noise and violence. With the help of Rei, her manager, chauffeur and "pimp," Sana is determined to win back control of the classroom from her new arch-enemy. As her crusade continues, Sana moves further into Akito's life, and finds that he might not be entirely bad...or entirely safe.

As a comedy title, timing, character chemistry and running gags decide whether it lands. Voice work is led by Tatsuya Nakazaki as Akito Hayama and Shizue Oda as Sana Kurata. If you count yourself among viewers who want something light between heavier series, put it on your list. At 102 episodes in total, it is easy to plan a viewing schedule.

Production & Appeal

Studio Gallop is the studio behind Kodocha, and its direction shapes everything from character design to motion. Within the comedy category, timing, character chemistry and running gags decide whether it lands. At 7.8/10 it earns a solid reception, a safe pick for fans of the genre. Voice casting, including Tatsuya Nakazaki as Akito Hayama, adds to the appeal for fans who follow seiyuu. It aired in 1996, which makes it easy to place in the wider anime calendar.