Billy and the Magic of the Beginning casts Mei Hata as Billy
Disney has cast Mei Hata as the Japanese voice of Billy in its new animated fantasy film, which opens in Japan on 4 December.
Billy and the Magic of the Beginning (ビリーと魔法のはじまり) has cast Mei Hata as the Japanese voice of Billy, the heroine of Disney's upcoming animated fantasy film.1
Hata was introduced at a 13 October announcement event, where she appeared in a flying stage presentation inspired by Billy's magic. She said the role felt like a dream after passing an audition run by Disney's US headquarters.1
A new Disney heroine
The film follows Billy Doe, described as Disney Animation's first modern high-school heroine. Billy feels trapped by the idea of what is considered “normal” before discovering a magical power that lets her fly. That discovery draws her into Hex, a hidden kingdom of witches, where the ability makes her a target.1
Disney's official teaser presents Billy as a determined young heroine with a distinctive visual style, while confirming a Japanese theatrical release on 4 December.2
The announcement also highlighted Hata's performance during dubbing. Yuka Sasaki, the film's dubbing director, praised her ability to capture Billy's mischievous personality and inner conflict, while Disney's character voice team said her performance matched the heroine's rebellious, modern spirit.1
Our opinion
This is a useful casting reveal because it gives the Japanese release a clear local face without pretending the film is anything other than a Disney theatrical event. Hata's comments also point to the character's strongest hook: Billy is not simply powerful, but uncomfortable with the rules around her. That tension should give the flying-magic premise a more personal centre when the film arrives.
Billy and the Magic of the Beginning opens in Japanese cinemas on 4 December.