While retaining the unique Japanese flavor of the film, Gaiman also sought to create diverse voices for each of the characters. “Miyazaki created funny, cool characters who seem at once timeless and contemporary. Each character has his or her own way of talking that reveals who they are,” observes Gaiman. “Ashitaka is very formal, using absolutely no slang. He is a prince and must talk like one. Jigo the monk, on the other hand, is very crude and philosophically pragmatic. Toki is very boisterous and rebellious. While Lady Eboshi exudes an aristocratic regality.”