After reliving the life of a high school student through the ReLIFE experiment, 27-year-old Arata Kaizaki cannot believe how quickly it has changed him. He has begun to see the world through a different perspective that he had completely forgotten as an adult. He has made friends and formed deep relationships with each one of them. However his support, Ryou Yoake, reminds him that the experiment is all an illusion; after his experiment ends, he will be forgotten by all of them.
The experiment of another ReLIFE subject is also coming to an end. After spending two years with ReLIFE, Chizuru Hishiro has developed into a more open, more thoughtful person than she could have ever imagined. She has met people who have changed her life, her perspective, and ultimately her. However, now that their ReLIFE is coming to an end, will they be able to let go of the memories they have made?
ReLIFE: Kanketsu-hen: A Second Chance at Youth Worth Living?
Synopsis
The compelling story of ReLIFE: Kanketsu-hen, continues the saga of the 27-year-old Arata Kaizaki who has failed miserably in every career he has embarked upon post-graduation. But when he is offered an opportunity by the ReLIFE Research Institute, all may not be lost.
The remedy they offer? An unusual pill that can make him relive a year in high school. How many times have we wished to revisit our past, if only to make those right moves? Reliving his high school days ain’t as fun as it sounds though. Without giving away any spoilers, let’s say, Arata’s got a colorful year ahead of him.
Review
To navigate the tempting waters of youth without giving in to immaturity is easier said than done and it’s here that ReLIFE: Kanketsu-hen strikes a chord.
Arata’s journey is all of us, gripped in the conflict of adulthood versus our adolescent selves, and trying to not just fit in, but also make a difference. It’s life with all its messy uncertainties and the sweet taste of little victories. Each episode unfolds a piece of Arata’s past, shaping his decisions in the present. Look out for the narrative style; it’s impressively engaging and creative.
What sets ReLIFE: Kanketsu-hen apart from typical high-school based anime is that the stakes are high here. Each choice Arata makes backed by his adult sensibility has a consequence, for better or worse. The characters are well developed, complex and relatable. They grow on you and you will find yourself deeply invested in their journeys.
The art style of ReLIFE: Kanketsu-hen pays homage to the raw simplicity of manga while infusing vibrant colors and shades. The animation is smooth and detailed, elevating the everyday scenarios to a trance-like viewing experience. The use of colors to highlight the character’s emotional journey is commendable.
Not to forget the sound design; it is awe-inspiring. The background scores beautifully synchronize with the scenario and carry forward the story. The voice actors have done a splendid job, bringing the characters to life with intensity and honesty.
ReLIFE: Kanketsu-hen is a unique blend of life lessons, nostalgia, melodrama, romance, friendships and it’s all underpinned by a wistful longing for our youthful days.
The final verdict: A Must-watch! Whether to rent, buy or stream, is your choice. But prepare yourself to be engrossed in ReLIFE: Kanketsu-hen. If real life were as charged up with raw emotions and introspection, well, many of us wouldn’t be wishing for a do-over now, right? ReLIFE: Kanketsu-hen, is more than just an anime, it’s an experience. An experience worth remembering!
To sum it up, ReLife: Kanketsu-hen is life re-visited and you are the better for it. Give it a try and here’s to hoping you come out of it with a newfound appreciation of the messy yet beautiful journey we call life.
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