Rilakkuma, a long-time rival mascot character to Sanrio’s Hello Kitty, is set to receive an upcoming anime by Japanese studio Production I.G, best known for the likes of Ghost in the Shell and Kaiju No. 8.
Via San-X’s official website, Production I.G revealed the first promotional trailer of its upcoming Rilakkuma anime, featuring the theme song by Lilas Ikuta, “stay with me”. Production I.G is well-known for anime such as Ghost in the Shell, Psycho-Pass, Haikyu!! and the recent Kaiju No. 8. Meanwhile, Rilakkuma is one of Japan’s most iconic mascots, often drawing comparisons to the fame of Sanrio’s Hello Kitty. The new trailer features Rilakkuma enjoying an adventure in a dream world, meeting Kiiroitori, Korilakkuma and Chairoikoguma. Readers can check it out below.
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The Rilakkuma anime will be directed by Yoshimi Itazu, who helmed The Concierge, likewise animated by Production I.G. It was also revealed that Lilas Ikuta was a huge fan of the popular bear mascot even before the anime, writing the lyrics on top of performing “stay with me” herself. “I am happy to be able to collaborate with Rilakkuma, a character I have loved since childhood,” she said on X (formerly Twitter). “Just having him there is a comforting and warm presence. May the song resonate with your feelings for Rilakkuma and the important people by your side 💔 Japanese composer KOHD arranged the song, having previously worked with Lilas Ikuta on several tracks, alongside major talents like Aimer, milet, Aimyon and Mori Calliope.
Rilakkuma has otherwise been in the news recently for San-X’s new line of merchandise, reviving several mascots popular in the early 2000s associated with the character. Just like Hello Kitty’s collaboration with McDonald’s this year, Rilakkuma also received a set of Happy Meal Toys, including puzzles for Korilakkuma and Kiiroitori.
Source: San-X official website
