Kazuki Shimada is a memorable supporting character in the critically acclaimed anime film A Silent Voice (Koe no Katachi), which hit theaters in 2016 under the direction of Naoko Yamada and was adapted from the manga by Yoshitoki Oima. Right from the start, Kazuki Shimada stands out—not just because of his rough exterior, but because of the depth he brings to the story as it unfolds. He enters the narrative as a second-year high school student who’s transferred to Shoya Ishida’s school after being expelled from his previous one due to poor academic performance and a history of delinquent behavior.

At first glance, you might peg Kazuki Shimada as just another rebellious teen, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. As the story progresses, it becomes clear that Kazuki Shimada is actually kind-hearted and deeply loyal—especially to Shoya. Their friendship begins to grow when they discover a shared passion for fishing, and this common interest quickly becomes a bridge between them. Through quiet moments by the riverbank, Kazuki Shimada offers Shoya not just companionship, but also wisdom. In many ways, Kazuki Shimada acts as a mentor, helping Shoya confront his past mistakes, particularly those involving Shoko Nishimiya, and guiding him on his path toward redemption.

One thing you’ll notice about Kazuki Shimada is how much he loves fishing. It’s more than just a hobby—it’s a way for him to disconnect from the noise of daily life and find peace. And honestly, there’s something poetic about it. Just like he patiently waits for a fish to bite, Kazuki Shimada also shows incredible patience when it comes to helping others. He doesn’t rush in; he watches, listens, and steps in when the time is right. That quiet strength makes Kazuki Shimada a grounding presence in Shoya’s turbulent journey.

Now, if we look at personality types, Kazuki Shimada fits the ENTJ profile pretty well. People with this type are often natural leaders—organized, driven, and goal-oriented. Kazuki Shimada may not be leading a corporate team, but he definitely takes charge in his own way. Whether it’s standing up for what’s right or pushing Shoya to face his guilt, Kazuki Shimada approaches everything with determination. He’s the kind of person who sees a problem and doesn’t back down. Challenges? He thrives on them. To someone like Kazuki Shimada, giving up isn’t an option. He believes that even in the final moments, things can still turn around—that there’s always room for change.

And let’s talk about his Enneagram type for a second. Kazuki Shimada seems to embody the traits of a Type Eight, also known as the Challenger. These individuals are bold, self-reliant, and fiercely protective of the people they care about. Kazuki Shimada definitely checks those boxes. He’s assertive, confident, and unafraid to speak his mind—even when it leads to conflict. There are moments, especially in his interactions with Shoya, where his strong will causes tension. But that intensity comes from a place of conviction, not cruelty. His need for control sometimes makes him come off as confrontational, but underneath it all, Kazuki Shimada wants justice, honesty, and personal integrity.

All in all, Kazuki Shimada plays a crucial role in shaping Shoya’s growth throughout A Silent Voice. While he might not be in the spotlight as much as the main characters, his impact is undeniable. Kazuki Shimada represents resilience, loyalty, and the quiet strength that comes from living authentically. Fans of the film have come to appreciate him not just for what he does, but for who he is—a complex, compassionate individual who quietly changes the lives around him. And honestly, that’s why Kazuki Shimada remains such a standout character in one of the most emotionally powerful anime films of recent years.