Review of ReLIFE
Story: 8/10 This plot takes place where a man named Kaizaki Arata has led a pretty disappointing life and suddenly meets a man that gives him a second chance. This leads Arata to be reincarnated as a high school student but with a mind of a full grown adult. I just want to say that the premise is interesting despite the pretty lackluster originality to the plot. The execution throughout is very good. The anime sets up the Arata through a series of obstacles and barriers which tests his ability to change from who he once was. These twits and turns entails intricate character development forour main character, changes of pace throughout plot and a satisfying trip at the end that wants you to watch more. I enjoyed how this show was able to convey the reality of today's society in a innocent, funny, but also a somewhat dark tone. I anticipated that this show will bring a rollarcoaster of emotions given the sad reality of the plot, but I recommend that people overlook the simplicity of the story; they should focus on the journey that Arata takes to establish his worth as a human to society and experience the happiness and anticipation the story leads you.
Art: 9/10
The art is not anything too crazy but in my opinion definitely nice to watch. The character and art design for the setting is relaxing to watch and fits very well with the premise. The color selection done by the animators is well done and makes you feel like enjoying the the show as a whole. The facial expressions and character design is nice since all the characters and places have their own distinct style. You have a different feel of the show when it strays off from the high school setting, but it in a good way. The art style makes it so nice to watch the interaction between characters. The facial expression, color selection of the surrounding and the gags are funny to watch on the way.
Sound: 9/10
The opening and endings of the show really do a good job of bringing a mixed tone and emotion. The soundtrack is very subtle but fits with what the producers want to show. When emotional scenes come up, the piano plays a mellow and chill tune which sets the mood for the dialogue or the actions taking place. However, I am a huge fan of the piano that plays. It has a wide range and I think a underrated part of the anime's success.
Character: 8/10
The characters are pretty self explanatory, the main character who is a long time adult who gets to relive is life as a high school student. There is a main character that thinks everyone is weird at first and vice versa.
Kaizaki Arata 10
Definitely not the prefect person but has flaws that you want to see. A hilarious but serious character. When the story progresses you watch him and you tell yourself you want him to succeed. Charismatic throughout the show as its shows by the other characters he has affected and the development of all of the characters stem from him.
Hishiro Chizuru 10
Quiet and shy character type, but has a determination for change. One of my favorite characters in the show, she might seem pretty annoying with her stone faced attitude, but shows a lot of innocence. A cute character with a one of the larger roles in Arata's development.
Kariu, Rena 9
Tsundere with a underlying secret that does not get revealed at the end but really worth the watch for this character. At times she gets annoying with her viewpoints but makes up in the end with acts of redemption.
Ooga Kazuomi 7
The really smart but not that athletic character that pushes Arata through his academic studies. He doesn't have a huge role besides being bright and optimistic for the group but still a good character. He also is a character that is a pivoting point for some conflict in the plot. The writer made him dense so that the other characters can work around him, so don't expect so much out of him.
Onoya and Yoake 9
Both characters that play a supporting role for Arata, but after watching the show I wish they explained more of their backgrounds, but overall a good supporting cast of characters.
Enjoyment: 10/10
The combination of the dialogue, characters and soundtrack really made this show. You can watch this show multiple times for the humor and the story development. It may not have the rewatchability of something like 10 times, but an emotional ride throughout that is just as good as the first time watching it.
Overall: 9/10
I think this show has a lot to be desired. If you are looking for a mixture of slice of life and romance in a school setting you can definitely check this out. Even if thats not your peaking interest, you can put your eyes in the perspective of Kaizaki Arata and enjoy the ride with him by watching the show.