Picture: Netflix
As Netflix continues its development of new and amazing anime titles, one such feature we’re super excited for is the release of Rilakkuma and Kaoru. Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming stop-motion title, including the plot, cast, trailer, and Netflix release date.
Rilakkuma and Kaoru is an upcoming Netflix Original stop-motion anime series. Based on the characters of the popular Rilakkuma franchise, the series will be Netflix’s first stop-motion title.
The Plot of Rilakkuma and Kaoru
The official synopsis given by Netflix is the following :
“Her life might be a little mundane, but Kaoru gets to go home to Rilakkuma, her endearingly lazy roommate who happens to be a fuzzy toy bear.”
The Cast of Rilakkuma and Kaoru
The cast of Rilakkuma and Kaoru is one the smallest yet, with only one voice actor lending themselves to a role. Lana Condor has been cast as Kaoru while there are no voice actors for the stuffed bear and friends.
Condor is most well known for playing the role of Lara Jean in All the Boys I’ve Loved Before and Jubilee in X-Men.
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The cultural significance of Rilakkuma
Rilakkuma isn’t Japan’s first cutesy animal export, and he certainly won’t be the last, but there’s no denying the loveable bear is a favorite among many.
The bear’s origins can be traced back to 2003 by the Japanese company San-X. A requirement of the workforce was for each person to create a ‘cute’ character each month. The company struck gold when now former employee Aki Kondo designed the bear Rilakkuma. Kondo’s inspiration behind the design of Rilakkuma came from her desire to own a pet and lead a more relaxing life.
Like fellow Japanese icon Hello Kitty, Rilakkuma has been featured on numerous stationery, clothing, backpacks, and, most importantly, stuffed animals. In 2010 the stuffed bear was the fifth most popular character that year.
Rilakkuma and Kaoru Episode Count and Run Time
The first season will feature 13 episodes to which all the episodes will be available to stream upon release! Each episode is expected to last around 20 to 25 minutes.
Rilakkuma and Kaoru photos
Rilakkuma and Kaoru Netflix Trailer
Netflix has released two trailers for Rilakkuma and Kaoru. The series is definitely going to be popular with fans of all ages. It’s easy to why the charming and cute little characters of the original series are so popular in Japan,
When is the Netflix release date for Rilakkuma and Kaoru?
The first season of Rilakkuma and Kaoru arrives on Friday, 19th of April.
Any news on a second season for Rilakkuma and Kaoru?
Not just yet! It will take some time before Netflix comes to a decision on commissioning another season. As we are fully expecting the series to perform very well with subscribers we definitely believe that Rilakkuma would return for another season.
Are you excited for the first season of Rilakkuma and Kaoru? Let us know in the comments below.
