Introduction of “ReLIFE”
ReLIFE is a Japanese web manga series. Yayoiso wrote and drew it. The Comico app put out the series from October 2013 to March 2018. It later came out in 15 tankōbon volumes. In 2016, TMS Entertainment turned the series into a 13-episode anime. Tomo Kosaka led the project. A live-action film version hit theaters in 2017. ReLIFE has earned praise for its new idea well-made characters, and deep look at topics like being an adult, feeling regret, and getting a second chance in life.
The story follows Arata Kaizaki, a 27-year-old man struggling to find a job and feeling societal pressure. He left his previous job due to a horrible incident, and now he drifts without a steady career or direction. His life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters Ryo Yoake, an employee of the ReLIFE Research Institute. Ryo offers Arata the opportunity to join the ReLIFE experiment. This involves taking a pill that transforms him back into a 17-year-old high school student for a year. During this period, Arata must relive his high school experience. The experiment aims to help him rediscover his potential and address lingering issues from his past.
ReLIFE mixes slice-of-life, romance, and drama to tell a story that connects with people across generations. The show explores second chances and self-discovery prompting viewers to consider the struggles of adulthood and how past decisions shape the present and future.
Themes
Second Chances and Redemption:
- ReLIFE explores the concept of second chances illustrating how a fresh start can enable someone to grow and heal. Arata’s story embodies the idea that you can always change your path and overcome past mistakes regardless of your age.
Self-Discovery and Growth:
- The series explores how Arata and his friends discover themselves, confront their doubts, worries, and aspirations. Their connections and adventures teach them key insights about their identities and potential.
Friendship and Support:
- ReLIFE focuses on friendship and emotional backing. Arata’s ties with his classmates demonstrate how empathy and mutual understanding can help people tackle challenges and become better versions of themselves.
Navigating Adulthood:
- ReLIFE offers a poignant look into the struggles and pressures of adult life. The show addresses issues like societal expectations, career hurdles, and how past decisions shape one’s current situation and outlook.
Story of “ReLIFE”
Arata Kaizaki, a 27-year-old man, hits rock bottom. He left his job due to workplace bullying and harassment. Now he struggles to find stable employment and faces judgment from society and his friends. Arata depends on part-time work and financial support from his parents to survive. He experiences growing despair and disconnection from his aspirations.
One night, Arata meets Ryo Yoake after a job interview that didn’t pan out. Ryo offers Arata an opportunity through the ReLIFE experiment. Ryo explains the experiment to Arata. It includes taking a pill that will turn Arata’s body back to 17 years old. This enables Arata to return to high school for a year. The experiment has an aim to help Arata rediscover his strengths, learn new life lessons, and determine a fresh direction for his life.
Despite his doubts, Arata decides to join the experiment and travels back to his high school days. , he feels unsure and out of place, but he starts to form genuine connections with his fellow students. These include Chizuru Hishiro, a diligent and composed student, Kazuomi Oga, an athletic and compassionate individual, and Rena Kariu, a spirited and caring classmate. As Arata navigates the ups and downs of high school, he reflects on his past missteps and begins to heal from the traumatic events that shaped his current situation.
Throughout the series, Arata’s interactions with his classmates demonstrate the importance of friendship, empathy, and resilience. As he helps his friends through their struggles and learns valuable lessons from them, Arata rediscovers his purpose and direction. By the end of the year, Arata has not improved himself but also gained the insights and experiences he needs to move forward in life.
Main Characters
- Arata Kaizaki: The story’s lead, a 27-year-old man who joins the ReLIFE experiment to discover a new aim and path in life. As a high school student, he creates new friendships and confronts his earlier errors.
- Chizuru Hishiro: A high school student who begins as aloof and awkward. Through her conversations with Arata and their schoolmates, she begins to open up and form genuine relationships.
- Ryo Yoake: A person from the ReLIFE Research Institute who oversees Arata’s experiment. He assists and supports Arata throughout his time in the program.
- Kazuomi Oga: Arata’s classmate known for his athletic talent and goodwill. He becomes one of Arata’s close friends.
- Rena Kariu: An energetic and rival-minded student who struggles with insecurity and jealousy. Her connection with Arata helps her overcome her own challenges.
Background Information of “ReLIFE”
Creator and Studio:
- Creator: Yayoiso
- Anime Studio: TMS Entertainment
Source Material:
- The web manga written and drawn by Yayoiso, forms the foundation for the series.
Release Dates:
- Yayoiso published the manga from October 2013 to March 2018.
- The anime version premiered in July 2016.
Episodes:
- The anime consists of 13 episodes, plus a 4-episode OVA to conclude the story.
Genre:
- This series falls under the slice-of-life, romance, and drama categories.
Visuals and Animation of “ReLIFE”
Animation Quality:
- ReLIFE has clean and expressive animation. It captures the characters’ emotions and interaction details well. The visual style matches the series’ slice-of-life tone to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Character Design:
- The character designs have detail and are distinctive. Each character’s appearance reflects their personality traits. The designs remain faithful to the original manga to preserve the series’ unique look.
Setting and Atmosphere:
- The series portrays the high school setting effectively. It blends everyday scenes with opportunities to reflect and emotional depth. The backgrounds and settings show careful craftsmanship to make the story feel more authentic.
Sound and Music of “ReLIFE”
Opening and Ending Themes:
- The show begins and ends with songs that reflect its themes and emotions. PENGUIN RESEARCH’s “Button” kicks off each episode, while Mikako Komatsu’s “Hotaru” wraps it up. These tunes catch your ear.
Background Music:
- Masayasu Tsuboguchi composed the soundtrack, which adds to the show’s emotional impact. The music spans from cheerful and lively to profound and reflective.
Voice Acting:
- The voice work in ReLIFE shines, with performances that bring out the characters’ unique traits and emotional growth. Key voice talents include Kensho Ono (as Arata) and Ai Kayano (as Chizuru).
Review
Critics applaud ReLIFE for its thought-provoking premise complex characters, and emotional depth. The show’s exploration of second chances and self-discovery resonates with viewers giving them an opportunity to consider the challenges and triumphs of adulthood. The character interactions feel genuine and poignant, with each individual experiencing significant growth throughout the narrative.
The series’ appeal gets a boost from its animation and soundtrack creating a visual and emotional experience that captivates the audience. While it addresses serious themes, the show incorporates humor and warmth resulting in a multi-layered story.
In the end, ReLIFE fascinates and enlightens teaching lessons about resilience, empathy, and the courage to start anew.
