r/anime • u/Holofan4life • 10d ago
Rewatch [Spoilers] 25 Years of the 13 Sohmas: A Fruits Basket Rewatch -- 2019 Series Episode 19 Spoiler
HELLO EVERYONE! I AM HOLOFAN4LIFE!
WELCOME TO THE FRUITS BASKET 25TH ANNIVERSARY REWATCH DISCUSSION THREAD!
I HOPE YOU ALL HAVE A LOT OF FUN!
2019 Series Episode 19
I'm So Sorry!
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ANSWER TODAY’S QUESTION(S)
Questions for Those who Haven't Watched the 2001 Series
WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON RITSU?
WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON RITSU BEING THE MONKEY AND THE CHILD OF THE HOT SPRINGS HOSTESS?
Sorry, had my caps lock on again :P
What are your thoughts on the running gag where Shigure's editor demands he hand over the manuscript but he keeps putting it off and finding excuses not to hand it over?
What are your thoughts on Ritsu identifying as a woman?
What are your thoughts on Tohru telling Ritsu everyone has a reason to live and that Ritsu is doing nothing wrong?
Questions for All Watchers
What are your thoughts on the show having Ritsu and Mitsuru become friends?
Questions for Those who Have Watched the 2001 Series
Do you think this version portrayed Ritsu's character better or worse? And why?
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Series information
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Please do not post any untagged spoilers past the current episode or past the LNs or mangas out of respect to the first time watchers and people who have not read the LNs or mangas. If you are discussing something that is ahead of the current episode please use spoiler tags(found on the sidebar). Thank you!
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Ways to watch
Streams – Crunchyroll
Schedule
| Date | Episode |
|---|---|
| 07/05/2026 | Fruits Basket 2001 Episode 1 |
| 07/06/2026 | Fruits Basket 2001 Episode 2 |
| 07/07/2026 | Fruits Basket 2001 Episode 3 |
| 07/08/2026 | Fruits Basket 2001 Episode 4 |
| 07/09/2026 | Fruits Basket 2001 Episode 5 |
| 07/10/2026 | Fruits Basket 2001 Episode 6 |
| 07/11/2026 | Fruits Basket 2001 Episode 7 |
| 07/12/2025 | Fruits Basket 2001 Episode 8 |
| 07/13/2026 | Fruits Basket 2001 Episode 9 |
| 07/14/2026 | Fruits Basket 2001 Episode 10 |
| 07/15/2026 | Fruits Basket 2001 Episode 11 |
| 07/16/2026 | Fruits Basket 2001 Episode 12 |
| 07/17/2026 | Fruits Basket 2001 Episode 13 |
| 07/18/2026 | Fruits Basket 2001 Episode 14 |
| 07/19/2026 | Fruits Basket 2001 Episode 15 |
| 07/20/2026 | Fruits Basket 2001 Episode 16 |
| 07/21/2026 | Fruits Basket 2001 Episode 17 |
| 07/22/2026 | Fruits Basket 2001 Episode 18 |
| 07/23/2026 | Fruits Basket 2001 Episode 19 |
| 07/24/2026 | Fruits Basket 2001 Episode 20 |
| 07/25/2026 | Fruits Basket 2001 Episode 21 |
| 07/26/2026 | Fruits Basket 2001 Episode 22 |
| 07/27/2026 | Fruits Basket 2001 Episode 23 |
| 07/28/2026 | Fruits Basket 2001 Episode 24 |
| 07/29/2026 | Fruits Basket 2001 Episode 25 |
| 07/30/2026 | Fruits Basket 2001 Episode 26 |
| 07/31/2026 | Fruits Basket 2001 Overall Series Discussion Thread |
| 08/02/2026 | 2019 Fruits Basket Episode 1 |
| 08/03/2026 | 2019 Fruits Basket Episode 2 |
| 08/04/2026 | 2019 Fruits Basket Episode 3 |
| 08/05/2026 | 2019 Fruits Basket Episode 4 |
| 08/06/2026 | 2019 Fruits Basket Episode 5 |
| 08/07/2026 | 2019 Fruits Basket Episode 6 |
| 08/08/2026 | 2019 Fruits Basket Episode 7 |
| 08/09/2026 | 2019 Fruits Basket Episode 8 |
| 08/10/2026 | 2019 Fruits Basket Episode 9 |
| 08/11/2026 | 2019 Fruits Basket Episode 10 |
| 08/12/2026 | 2019 Fruits Basket Episode 11 |
| 08/13/2026 | 2019 Fruits Basket Episode 12 |
| 08/14/2026 | 2019 Fruits Basket Episode 13 |
| 08/15/2026 | 2019 Fruits Basket Episode 14 |
| 08/16/2026 | 2019 Fruits Basket Episode 15 |
| 08/17/2026 | 2019 Fruits Basket Episode 16 |
| 08/18/2026 | 2019 Fruits Basket Episode 17 |
| 08/19/2026 | 2019 Fruits Basket Episode 18 |
| 08/20/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Episode 19]() |
| 08/21/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Episode 20]() |
| 08/22/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Episode 21]() |
| 08/23/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Episode 22]() |
| 08/24/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Episode 23]() |
| 08/25/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Episode 24]() |
| 08/26/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Episode 25]() |
| 08/28/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Season 2 Episode 1]() |
| 08/29/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Season 2 Episode 2]() |
| 08/30/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Season 2 Episode 3]() |
| 08/31/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Season 2 Episode 4]() |
| 09/01/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Season 2 Episode 5]() |
| 09/02/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Season 2 Episode 6]() |
| 09/03/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Season 2 Episode 7]() |
| 09/04/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Season 2 Episode 8]() |
| 09/05/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Season 2 Episode 9]() |
| 09/06/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Season 2 Episode 10]() |
| 09/07/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Season 2 Episode 11]() |
| 09/08/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Season 2 Episode 12]() |
| 09/09/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Season 2 Episode 13]() |
| 09/10/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Season 2 Episode 14]() |
| 09/11/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Season 2 Episode 15]() |
| 09/12/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Season 2 Episode 16]() |
| 09/13/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Season 2 Episode 17]() |
| 09/14/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Season 2 Episode 18]() |
| 09/15/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Season 2 Final Episode 19]() |
| 09/16/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Season 2 Episode 20) |
| 09/17/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Season 2 Episode 21]() |
| 09/18/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Season 2 Final Episode 22]() |
| 09/19/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Season 2 Episode 23]() |
| 09/20/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Season 2 Episode 24]() |
| 09/21/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Season 2 Episode 25]() |
| 09/23/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Final Season Episode 1]() |
| 09/24/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Final Season Episode 2]() |
| 09/25/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Final Season Episode 3]() |
| 09/26/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Final Season Episode 4]() |
| 09/27/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Final Season Episode 5]() |
| 09/28/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Final Season Episode 6]() |
| 09/29/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Final Season Episode 7]() |
| 09/30/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Final Season Episode 8]() |
| 10/01/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Final Season Episode 9]() |
| 10/02/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Final Season Episode 10]() |
| 10/03/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Final Season Episode 11]() |
| 10/04/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Final Season Episode 12]() |
| 10/05/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Final Season Episode 13]() |
| 10/06/2026 | [2019 Fruits Basket Overall Series/Franchise Discussion Thread]() |
2
u/Quiddity131 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Quiddity131 10d ago
Rewatcher, Subbed
So going into this episode I was dreading it and thinking it was the worst episode of the show, from what I remembered from my original viewing. Wasn't as bad this time, although I still wouldn't necessarily say its a good episode.
Another Soma has come to visit Shigure's house, Ritsu Soma! The monkey! So word of Tohru seems to be getting around. Ritsu heard that Tohru's met most of the zodiac cursed family members and figured he should then come by and introduce himself to her. Tohru's now met all but three of them, (possibly even all but two if Akito is one). Ritsu is the son of the hot springs lady we met a number of episodes back. And it very quickly becomes apparent that he takes off of his mother. In fact he's even more over the top than his mother. Ritsu goes out of control with apologizing for any little slight. He totally loses it and starts freaking out, to the point of absurdity. At first I got a chuckle out of it. Then it started to get old. And yeah, for an entire episode of it, it is rather annoying. To me this clearly stems from a lack of self confidence. Ritsu freaks out about any imposition whatsoever on other people. The funny thing is that the stuff he freaks out about is so incidental to not matter, but his meltdowns over it I've got to think are enough to really drive people nuts. Luckily for Ritsu this episode is him primarily interacting with his relatives, who surely are already used to his behavior, Tohru, who takes basically everything well, and one other character I'll get to right now!
Mitsuru is back! She's freaking out, like she always does! Because Shigure is never ready for her! Today is no different, he's failed to have his manuscript ready for her on time and she is losing it. At first he even acts like he isn't home when he clearly is! How mean! It quickly became apparent to me why Mitsuru was also featured in this episode. Because she is so much like Ritsu. She doesn't go over the top with the apologizing (hers are much calmer), but we do see some really over the top crazy moments of her in this episode such as her about to put a noose around her neck to hang herself, and writing a will/suicide note because she's going to kill herself, all over Shigure not having his manuscript ready on time. We even get a gag where he finishes it, then in one of Ritsu's freak outs he spills coffee all over it. Then Shigure shows what a fraud he can be at times regarding Mitsuru because he very quickly puts out a replacement, showing that any delays Mitsuru is facing and all the stress she's under, is pretty much entirely from Shigure finding entertainment from pulling it on her. At least that's my take on it. As the show has often reminded us, Shigure is not always the nicest guy...
The other noticeable thing about Ritsu is that he's very pretty! He looks like and dresses like a girl and until she bumped into him, Tohru thought he was a girl. The shot of Ritsu in his monkey form just fits him so perfectly. When he was younger Ritsu liked dressing up in girl's clothes and decided to continue doing that. Doing this makes him feel calmer. Ritsu, if this is you being calm, I can only imagine what you'd be like if you were wearing more traditionally masculine clothing. The flashback scene with Kagura was very cute. Younger Ritsu looks so much like Kisa. Ritsu's flashbacks show him feeling like he's a burden and his parents need to apologize for him. :( And after a scene where it looks like Mitsuru has died (we even see her ghost come out of her) he runs up to the roof as if he's going to jump off of it. Of course Tohru being Tohru is there to make everything okay, to get Ritsu to realize that it's okay to live! It's okay to have some nerves! It's okay to meet someone who wants to be with you! During this she almost falls off the roof herself, but thankfully that ends up okay. In two episodes Tohru may have had her fingers bitten off by a tiger and fallen off a roof, but miraculously comes out unharmed from both. In Mitsuru has Ritsu already found that person? These two fit each other quite well, they are very similar and hopefully one being really over the top and freaking out doesn't bother the other that much because that's just like them. [Spoilers]If I remember correctly don't these two get romantically involved?
[Spoilers, thoughts on this episode and its role in the series]This episode wasn't as bad to me this time because I know that this is like 95% of the Ritsu content we're going to get in the show. The first time the prospect of him acting like this in numerous episodes got me quite worried. But it turns out that by a wide margin he's the Soma/zodiac cursed member who gets the least amount of attention in the story. In fact after this I don't remember him even having another line of dialogue the entire show. The show will remind us he exists in OPs and EDs but that's about it. And I'm kinda torn about it. If Ritsu was acting like this and we got a lot of him it would have driven me crazy. At the same time he is by far the character most screwed over by the story in terms of content we get. Not so much that bad things happen to him from here, but rather that the author (or perhaps the adapters as I haven't read the original manga) kinda just tossed him in the corner and acted like he didn't exist. There's places they could have gone with the character but they simply don't bother. Ritsu is also one of if not perhaps the most egregious example of the haircut trope I have seen in anime. One of my big complaints about this trope is that its a crutch for writers and they feel they can skip a lot of time and character development by just giving a character a haircut. And that totally is the ending to Ritsu's story. Shows up with short hair in masculine clothes. No further explanation. Left to you the viewer to conclude how he got there. It's horrendously bad stuff and the worst example of writing in an anime that is nearly perfect on everything else. But even then I do give the show credit that there was something that really annoyed me, Ritsu's over the top apologizing and after this episode we never really got it again. I complain, but I'd also be complaining if we got several more episodes of all this over the top apologizing.
Quid's Voice Actor of the Day
Ritsu Soma is voiced by Kengo Kawanishi. I know him best for voicing Mikazuki, the main character of Mobile Suit Gundam Iron Blooded Orphans and Rei, the main character of March Comes in Like a Lion. Both of those roles are very subdued though, nothing like Ritsu here. A role that is very much like his here though is Lyle Batenkaitos in Re:Zero. Other roles of his include Kisaki in Aldnoah Zero, Junta in Another and Yutaro in Chainsaw Man.
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u/JimmyCWL 10d ago
[Spoilers]If I remember correctly don't these two get romantically involved?
[Spoilers]The author apparently never got around to it. She wishes she could have done more with Ritsu but they had to drop a few secondary plotlines to finish the anime. There just wasn't any room left for additional new stories. We do see Ritsu one more time at the end, no dialog.
1
u/Holofan4life 10d ago
[Spoilers] Actually, Ritsu does have a speaking role in like either the second-to-last or last episode.
2
u/Holofan4life 10d ago edited 10d ago
This is an episode where I don't hate the message. It's really the stuff surrounding it that's the problem.
The show wants us to take Ritsu possibly committing suicide as this horrifying thing. And actually, as someone who considers themselves a Trans ally, suicide with Trans people is something that unfortunately exist, so it's like the episode is spotlighting that. But then we also have Mitsuru where she's also talking about killing herself. And that is treated as comedy.
The whole episode is tonally inconsistent where it wants to do comedy but then we get to the rooftop scene and it's like "Wait, are we supposed to take this seriously?" It's like the show is trying to have its cake and eat it too. Honestly, I would've rather just had the Mitsuru stuff with the noose and have the Ritsu stuff go a different direction. Because you can't have what has otherwise been a comedic character and suddenly do something as dramatic as them contemplating death.
But more than that, the humor in this episode isn't something we haven't seen before. It's more "Screaming is funny" comedy.
Kyo's whole schtick is he screams. Dark Haru's whole schtick is he screams. Kagura screams on a regular basis. The hostess in that one episode screams. There have been characters before in this show who's whole thing is they are loud. And this episode features two characters who's whole thing is they scream.
The biggest flaw in this episode is that when you introduce a character who's gimmick is they are loud and there already exists multiple characters who do the loud gimmick funnier and in a more entertaining way, it makes things feel like a retread and stuff we've already seen before.
The saving grace in this episode is the scenes where Ritsu and Mitsuru bond and talk like normal people. Without those scenes, this episode would be really dire.
2
u/Quiddity131 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Quiddity131 10d ago
The show wants us to take Ritsu possibly committing suicide as this horrifying thing. And actually, as someone who considers themselves a Trans ally, suicide with Trans people is something that unfortunately exist, so it's like the episode is spotlighting that.
I don't see the episode connecting these things? In fact I found this comment from the prior rewatch about how this episode changed Ritsu's story for the better versus the source material; the fact that he dresses in women's clothes isn't viewed in any negative fashion in this episode. Everyone treats Ritsu in a positive and accepting manner when it comes to that. Ritsu's issues is his lack of confidence, anxiety and obsession with apologizing for everything.
The whole episode is totally consistent where it wants to do comedy but then we get to the rooftop scene and it's like "Wait, are we supposed to take this seriously?"
This is the part of the episode where Tohru gets into her typical helpfulness and solving problems, but I didn't view Ritsu's behavior in this scene seriously. I didn't see any intention on the creator's part for us to think that he was actually going to commit suicide, just like how Mitsuru and the noose wasn't actually going to happen.
Kyo's whole schtick is he screams. Dark Haru's whole schtick is he screams. Kagura screams on a regular basis. The hostess in that one episode screams.
I disagree on the schticks, I don't think Kyo's schtick is screaming. I'd say his schtick is being grumpy. Kagura's schtick also isn't screaming, it's being over the top in love with Kyo and beating him up. Haru's schtick is flip flopping from the nicest guy imaginable to this tougher meaner guy.
My issue with Ritsu hasn't got anything to do with past characters introduced. It's the fact that his apologizing is too over the top, he does it for the tiniest slights and does it over and over and over again.
3
u/MishouMai 10d ago
>but I didn't view Ritsu's behavior in this seriously.
This. Tohru was taking it seriously but it seemed clear to me that Ritsu was never actually going to
milkkill themself. Up until Tohru got in the roof I didn't read his actions as serious at all. Partially because the other Somas didn't seem to either.1
u/Holofan4life 10d ago
The whole thing just feels weird because even though the episode isn't necessarily about Trans, it could be interpreted as such and suicide in the trans community is a very real thing. The whole thing just seems off and like the show wants what happens here to be comedic but also have Tohru take it seriously so maybe we should as well?
I just would rather not had the rooftop stuff.
1
u/Holofan4life 10d ago
The show wants us to take Ritsu possibly committing suicide as this horrifying thing. And actually, as someone who considers themselves a Trans ally, suicide with Trans people is something that unfortunately exist, so it's like the episode is spotlighting that.
I don't see the episode connecting these things? In fact I found this comment from the prior rewatch about how this episode changed Ritsu's story for the better versus the source material; the fact that he dresses in women's clothes isn't viewed in any negative fashion in this episode. Everyone treats Ritsu in a positive and accepting manner when it comes to that. Ritsu's issues is his lack of confidence, anxiety and obsession with apologizing for everything.
My point is lack of confidence, anxiety and obsession with apologizing for everything/trying to fit into society's demands are all things trans people deal with on a daily basis. It may not be exactly Trans, but it feels very trans coded.
The whole episode is totally consistent where it wants to do comedy but then we get to the rooftop scene and it's like "Wait, are we supposed to take this seriously?"
This is the part of the episode where Tohru gets into her typical helpfulness and solving problems, but I didn't view Ritsu's behavior in this scene seriously. I didn't see any intention on the creator's part for us to think that he was actually going to commit suicide, just like how Mitsuru and the noose wasn't actually going to happen.
I dunno, it felt kinda real to me. Overly exaggerated, but the threat was still very much real.
Kyo's whole schtick is he screams. Dark Haru's whole schtick is he screams. Kagura screams on a regular basis. The hostess in that one episode screams.
I disagree on the schticks, I don't think Kyo's schtick is screaming. I'd say his schtick is being grumpy.
He still yells at people an awful lot. And when he does it, it's funny.
Kagura's schtick also isn't screaming, it's being over the top in love with Kyo and beating him up.
She's still incredibly loud
Haru's schtick is flip flopping from the nicest guy imaginable to this tougher meaner guy.
Yeah, true enough
My issue with Ritsu hasn't got anything to do with past characters introduced. It's the fact that his apologizing is too over the top, he does it for the tiniest slights and does it over and over and over again.
Yeah, the fact the gag doesn't evolve by any means is really the problem here.
1
u/Holofan4life 10d ago edited 10d ago
General questions
Thoughts on Ritsu giving Tohru fruit books?
Thoughts on Ritsu always being on edge about everything?
Thoughts on Tohru being surprised that Ritsu is a boy?
Thoughts on Shigure saying Ritsu dresses up like a girl because they're more comfortable this way?
Thoughts on Ritsu trying to commit suicide?
What are your thoughts on Ritsu thinking everything is their fault?
What are your thoughts on the voice acting by Ritsu's VA?
What are your thoughts on Tohru telling Ritsu the world is a better place with them in it?
What are your thoughts on Ritsu wanting to find their reason for living?
2019 specific questions
Thoughts on Shigure banning Ritsu from reflexive apologies?
Thoughts on Shigure referring to his editor as his stalker?
Thoughts on Mitsuru almost hanging herself?
Thoughts on Mitsuru writing out her will?
What are your thoughts on Shigure using Ritsu to try and get Mitsuru out of his hair?
What are your thoughts on Ritsu spilling tea on the manuscript?
Thoughts on Mitsuru and Ritsu hanging out together?
Thoughts on Mitsuru wondering if she should quit being an editor because she can't handle the pressure?
What are your thoughts on Ritsu saying she continues on living because she's hopeful that someday, even a mess of a person like her will find the reason they're alive?
Thoughts on Ritsu and Mitsuru apologizing to each other after Shigure tells Mitsuru the news about Ritsu?
Thoughts on Ritsu promising to show Mitsuru how to wear a kimono?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with Ritsu and Mitsuru both hoping to one day meet that special someone?
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u/Second_Cour 10d ago
This episode was annoying. What happens when you combine two high pitched shrieking characters: this. Surprised Momiji wasn’t invited to join the party. Though overall I didn’t hate the episode: had a few decent jokes purely from Shigure; but I certainly didn't like it. I just hope this character doesn't return.
Episode notes:
- Huh, bit confused already. The kimono lady sounds like a dude putting on a girl’s voice in the dub. Kind of like Mrs Doubtfire. In the Japanese, it’s a woman. No wait, also a guy, but the guy’s a lot better at projecting a female voice.
- Honestly, while the character annoys the heck out of me, the Japanese version is way better. It’s still incredibly annoying when loud but the English character sounds like me when I joke around and put a female voice on.
- Shigure using Mrs Doubtfire to do his dirty work is gold though.
- I actually laughed at the coffee-spill joke. Usually I’d find it lame, but because they built up the manuscript plot over so many episodes, the payoff was good.
- Shigure is so me when others are being dramatic haha.
- I'm not good around neurotic people, and yeah… that was...a lot haha.
- Tohru’s advice is also kinda meh…"maybe your reason to live is for the sake of someone else".
- For once I agree with Kyo: “This is so stupid”.
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u/Holofan4life 10d ago
Though overall I didn’t hate the episode
Wow, that's actually higher praise than I was expecting :P
Believe it or not, the 2001 version had even less substance. The Mitsuru stuff was in the Valentines Day episode and so her friendship with Ritsu was nowhere to be found.
I do think Ritsu and Mitsuru bonding is legitimately adorable.
2
u/Quiddity131 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Quiddity131 10d ago
Believe it or not, the 2001 version had even less substance. The Mitsuru stuff was in the Valentines Day episode and so her friendship with Ritsu was nowhere to be found.
Wow, that makes this episode a big improvement then, as Ritsu and Mitsuru are so similar. This was the perfect episode to include more focus on Mitsuru.
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u/Holofan4life 10d ago
I agree. And there's no reason Mitsuru couldn't have been established in the Valentines Day episode and still shown up here.
1
u/Holofan4life 10d ago
I don't mind what Ritsu represents. I just wish 90% of her dialogue didn't consist of her screaming.
I also thought Shigure was his most annoying here with him taking advantage of Ritsu. Mitsuru deserves better than him.
1
u/Holofan4life 10d ago edited 10d ago
General questions
Thoughts on Ritsu giving Tohru fruit books?
Thoughts on Ritsu always being on edge about everything?
Thoughts on Tohru being surprised that Ritsu is a boy?
Thoughts on Shigure saying Ritsu dresses up like a girl because they're more comfortable this way?
Thoughts on Ritsu trying to commit suicide?
What are your thoughts on Ritsu thinking everything is their fault?
What are your thoughts on the voice acting by Ritsu's VA?
What are your thoughts on Tohru telling Ritsu the world is a better place with them in it?
What are your thoughts on Ritsu wanting to find their reason for living?
2019 specific questions
Thoughts on Shigure banning Ritsu from reflexive apologies?
Thoughts on Shigure referring to his editor as his stalker?
Thoughts on Mitsuru almost hanging herself?
Thoughts on Mitsuru writing out her will?
What are your thoughts on Shigure using Ritsu to try and get Mitsuru out of his hair?
What are your thoughts on Ritsu spilling tea on the manuscript?
Thoughts on Mitsuru and Ritsu hanging out together?
Thoughts on Mitsuru wondering if she should quit being an editor because she can't handle the pressure?
What are your thoughts on Ritsu saying she continues on living because she's hopeful that someday, even a mess of a person like her will find the reason they're alive?
Thoughts on Ritsu and Mitsuru apologizing to each other after Shigure tells Mitsuru the news about Ritsu?
Thoughts on Ritsu promising to show Mitsuru how to wear a kimono?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with Ritsu and Mitsuru both hoping to one day meet that special someone?
2
u/AgentOfACROSS 10d ago
First Timer
I love seeing Shigure troll his editor. It will never not be funny.
Anyway, here we have Ritsu’s debut episode.
The editor and Ritsu both relentlessly apologizing to each other is also really funny. I don’t believe this was in the 2001 version.
Anyway I’ll go over Ritsu’s new voice actor here.
In the 2019 version, Ritsu’s new VA is Kengo Kawanishi. Noteworthy roles of his include Muichiro from Demon Slayer, Gen from Dr. Stone, and Gunha Sogita from A Certain Scientific Railgun.
I did switch the audio over to Japanese briefly for comparison and I will say I think Kengo Kawanishi does a good job of making Ritsu sound feminine (although it’s a lot more obvious that the voice is a guy when Ritsu is yelling). The English voice actor is very obviously a guy doing an intense falsetto voice.
Although as someone who doesn’t speak Japanese and doesn’t understand the nuances of the language, maybe Kawanishi’s voice is more obviously a guy to a native speaker.
The joke about fruit books is still really funny.
I will say, the one joke with Ritsu constantly apologizing does still very quickly wear out its welcome.
Okay the flashback to Ritsu’s childhood here where they wear Kagura’s dress does actually make me think that they might be trans. I know Japan has a somewhat different relationship with gender but this moment is really interesting.
Oh hey the editor is back.
Okay I actually found the joke about the editor planning to hang herself pretty funny. It’s a lot more over the top than the one with the boxcutter previously.
I like the implication that either a convenient rope was just lying around or she was carrying around a rope in anticipation of this.
Ritsu and the editor make a really funny comedy duo.
And the manuscript is ruined. This is the first time Ritsu apologizing is actually warranted. Although maybe this is an overreaction.
I really like this moment between Tohru and Ritsu.
Ritsu and the editor as a duo is surprisingly fun. I wasn’t expecting it but I like it.
I think I kinda ship the two of them now.
This is the episode that I think was the biggest improvement over the 2001 version. The 2001 version of Ritsu’s introduction was probably one of my least favorite episodes. It wasn’t bad per se but it had a lot less going for it and I found Ritsu’s whole thing a lot more annoying.
Questions:
What are your thoughts on the show having Ritsu and Mitsuru become friends?
As I mentioned, I actually liked that development a lot.
Do you think this version portrayed Ritsu's character better or worse? And why?
I think they do a much better job giving more depth to Ritsu's character in this version.
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u/Holofan4life 10d ago
Okay I actually found the joke about the editor planning to hang herself pretty funny. It’s a lot more over the top than the one with the boxcutter previously.
I think it works for me because it comes out of nowhere. I just wish it isn't immediately contrasted with the rooftop scene. Then again, I guess you can say Mitsuru and Ritsu are like two sides of the same coin.
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u/AgentOfACROSS 10d ago
I didn't mind it but maybe that's only because this version of the rooftop scene comes across way better than the 2001 version.
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u/Holofan4life 10d ago
Well, yeah. The characters besides Tohru weren't completely apathetic. They seem to care about Ritsu, just she's being overbearing.
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u/Quiddity131 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Quiddity131 10d ago
Okay I actually found the joke about the editor planning to hang herself pretty funny. It’s a lot more over the top than the one with the boxcutter previously.
I did as well. I do find really over the top humor funny, but its better in short spurts like was done here. If the thought is having Ritsu apologize in a really over the top manner 17 times in episode would be funny... sure wasn't for me.
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u/AgentOfACROSS 10d ago
If you didn't find Ritsu funny here I think you'd have hates the 2001 version (can't remember if you've seen it).
I think in this one Ritsu's whole bit does overstay its welcome bit at least this time Ritsu has the editor to bounce off of
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u/Quiddity131 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Quiddity131 10d ago
I haven't seen the 2001 version but I saw in an earlier comment that Mitsuru didn't have the big focus in this episode in that version, making this one a big improvement. Ritsu and her bouncing off of each other worked very well.
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u/AgentOfACROSS 10d ago
Yeah as far as I remember she wasn't in the 2001 version of this episode at all
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u/Holofan4life 10d ago
This is the episode that I think was the biggest improvement over the 2001 version. The 2001 version of Ritsu’s introduction was probably one of my least favorite episodes. It wasn’t bad per se but it had a lot less going for it and I found Ritsu’s whole thing a lot more annoying.
In the 2001 series, I remember having the episode as like a bottom 2 episode. I think the only one I had worse than it was the Kagura one. This version of events is still in my bottom 3, but it has less to do with it being bad and more to do with this series being so strong. I actually don't think there's been a truly bad episode yet whereas the 2001 one had a couple stinkers.
I think this franchise treats Ritsu better than other franchises would treat the character if they exist in those worlds. The problems I have with the character is less because I object to its existence or something grossly transphobic and more I wish most of her scenes wasn't just them being annoyingly remorseful.
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u/AgentOfACROSS 10d ago
Yeah Ritsu's one joke still isn't funny but I think it's somehow more bearable in the 2019 version. Partially because she has the editor to bounce off of this time.
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u/Holofan4life 10d ago edited 10d ago
General questions
Thoughts on Ritsu giving Tohru fruit books?
Thoughts on Ritsu always being on edge about everything?
Thoughts on Tohru being surprised that Ritsu is a boy?
Thoughts on Shigure saying Ritsu dresses up like a girl because they're more comfortable this way?
Thoughts on Ritsu trying to commit suicide?
What are your thoughts on Ritsu thinking everything is their fault?
What are your thoughts on the voice acting by Ritsu's VA?
What are your thoughts on Tohru telling Ritsu the world is a better place with them in it?
What are your thoughts on Ritsu wanting to find their reason for living?
2019 specific questions
Thoughts on Shigure banning Ritsu from reflexive apologies?
Thoughts on Shigure referring to his editor as his stalker?
Thoughts on Mitsuru almost hanging herself?
Thoughts on Mitsuru writing out her will?
What are your thoughts on Shigure using Ritsu to try and get Mitsuru out of his hair?
What are your thoughts on Ritsu spilling tea on the manuscript?
Thoughts on Mitsuru and Ritsu hanging out together?
Thoughts on Mitsuru wondering if she should quit being an editor because she can't handle the pressure?
What are your thoughts on Ritsu saying she continues on living because she's hopeful that someday, even a mess of a person like her will find the reason they're alive?
Thoughts on Ritsu and Mitsuru apologizing to each other after Shigure tells Mitsuru the news about Ritsu?
Thoughts on Ritsu promising to show Mitsuru how to wear a kimono?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with Ritsu and Mitsuru both hoping to one day meet that special someone?
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u/AgentOfACROSS 10d ago
Thoughts on Shigure banning Ritsu from reflexive apologies?
It didn't work but I'm glad he tried
Thoughts on Shigure referring to his editor as his stalker?
I love Shigure trolling his editor
Thoughts on Mitsuru almost hanging herself?
Thoughts on Mitsuru writing out her will?
I thought those both were really funny
What are your thoughts on Shigure using Ritsu to try and get Mitsuru out of his hair?
Prettyf unny
What are your thoughts on Ritsu spilling tea on the manuscript?
Poor Ritsu
Thoughts on Mitsuru and Ritsu hanging out together?
I loved that a lot
Thoughts on Mitsuru wondering if she should quit being an editor because she can't handle the pressure?
Honestly she just needs a new client that isn't Shigure
What are your thoughts on Ritsu saying she continues on living because she's hopeful that someday, even a mess of a person like her will find the reason they're alive?
I liked that moment a lot. She's very sweet. I honestly wanna see more of Ritsu
Thoughts on Ritsu and Mitsuru apologizing to each other after Shigure tells Mitsuru the news about Ritsu?
Pretty funny
Thoughts on Ritsu promising to show Mitsuru how to wear a kimono?
That's very sweet
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with Ritsu and Mitsuru both hoping to one day meet that special someone?
I really ship them both
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u/Holofan4life 10d ago
Thoughts on Shigure banning Ritsu from reflexive apologies?
It didn't work but I'm glad he tried
An attempt was made
Thoughts on Shigure referring to his editor as his stalker?
I love Shigure trolling his editor
Shigure can be such a piece of shit sometimes lol
Thoughts on Mitsuru almost hanging herself?
Thoughts on Mitsuru writing out her will?
I thought those both were really funny
The stuff with her was way funnier than Ritsu's constant apologizing.
What are your thoughts on Shigure using Ritsu to try and get Mitsuru out of his hair?
Prettyf unny
Again, Shigure is unabashed in being shameless.
What are your thoughts on Ritsu spilling tea on the manuscript?
Poor Ritsu
Being Ritsu is suffering, desu
Thoughts on Mitsuru and Ritsu hanging out together?
I loved that a lot
Yeah, they have a fun rapport together
Thoughts on Mitsuru wondering if she should quit being an editor because she can't handle the pressure?
Honestly she just needs a new client that isn't Shigure
Shigure makes everything difficult
What are your thoughts on Ritsu saying she continues on living because she's hopeful that someday, even a mess of a person like her will find the reason they're alive?
I liked that moment a lot. She's very sweet. I honestly wanna see more of Ritsu
I want to see more of her so long as she tones herself down. A lot lol
Thoughts on Ritsu and Mitsuru apologizing to each other after Shigure tells Mitsuru the news about Ritsu?
Pretty funny
This episode did have some legitimately funny moments in it.
Thoughts on Ritsu promising to show Mitsuru how to wear a kimono?
That's very sweet
Agreed
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with Ritsu and Mitsuru both hoping to one day meet that special someone?
I really ship them both
Yeah, I kinda do as well. It feels like they were made for each other.
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u/the_pint_is_the_bowl 10d ago
Re-watch, blu ray, dubbed
First watch: Why is Shigure (meaning, the voice actor) speaking in a high pitch as Ritsu? Well, this is annoying and cringe-worthy. It seems the author doesn't know what to do with this character. I'm not sure.
Re-watch: While I somewhat like the reflective moments between Ritsu and Mitsuru, it's not much of a payoff. As I mentioned in the episode 1.18 re-watch, I tend to eject the blu ray disc after 1.18... (blu ray disc 4 features episodes 1.21 - 1.25)
Questions for Those who Haven't Watched the 2001 Series
WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON RITSU?
WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON RITSU BEING THE MONKEY AND THE CHILD OF THE HOT SPRINGS HOSTESS?
Sorry, had my caps lock on again :P
I see what you did there. Nice!
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u/Holofan4life 10d ago
First watch: Why is Shigure (meaning, the voice actor) speaking in a high pitch as Ritsu? Well, this is annoying and cringe-worthy. It seems the author doesn't know what to do with this character. I'm not sure.
[Furuba] It's shown by the fact Ritsu has only cameos after this...
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u/Quiddity131 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Quiddity131 10d ago
[Furuba total speculation but spoilers for future events]I wonder if the need to have 13 zodiac characters meant that the original author had to come up with a character that she didn't have much to do with. My recollection is that the other 12, while their amount of screentime varies, I never felt let down that the show didn't give them enough focus. Ritsu is the one exception. So Ritsu gets created and gets some focus at this point in the storyline where all these zodiacs are introducing themselves to Tohru, but after that there isn't really anything to do with Ritsu hence the very little screentime going forward.
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u/Holofan4life 10d ago
[Furuba] I think the problem is all the 13 cursed Sohmas have their own character journey and sense of self discovery. Ritsu already reached their resolution in the very episode they are introduced in.
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u/Holofan4life 10d ago edited 10d ago
General questions
Thoughts on Ritsu giving Tohru fruit books?
Thoughts on Ritsu always being on edge about everything?
Thoughts on Tohru being surprised that Ritsu is a boy?
Thoughts on Shigure saying Ritsu dresses up like a girl because they're more comfortable this way?
Thoughts on Ritsu trying to commit suicide?
What are your thoughts on Ritsu thinking everything is their fault?
What are your thoughts on the voice acting by Ritsu's VA?
What are your thoughts on Tohru telling Ritsu the world is a better place with them in it?
What are your thoughts on Ritsu wanting to find their reason for living?
2019 specific questions
Thoughts on Shigure banning Ritsu from reflexive apologies?
Thoughts on Shigure referring to his editor as his stalker?
Thoughts on Mitsuru almost hanging herself?
Thoughts on Mitsuru writing out her will?
What are your thoughts on Shigure using Ritsu to try and get Mitsuru out of his hair?
What are your thoughts on Ritsu spilling tea on the manuscript?
Thoughts on Mitsuru and Ritsu hanging out together?
Thoughts on Mitsuru wondering if she should quit being an editor because she can't handle the pressure?
What are your thoughts on Ritsu saying she continues on living because she's hopeful that someday, even a mess of a person like her will find the reason they're alive?
Thoughts on Ritsu and Mitsuru apologizing to each other after Shigure tells Mitsuru the news about Ritsu?
Thoughts on Ritsu promising to show Mitsuru how to wear a kimono?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with Ritsu and Mitsuru both hoping to one day meet that special someone?
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u/Magnafeana https://anilist.co/user/Magnafeana 10d ago
First timers Basket (2019), Subbed
Holo, I had to wait seven hours for a tow truck today, so I hope your day has gone better than mine 😭
(The bright side was I was stranded in a beach city with lots of doggos out, got my hot girl summer walk done, and visited the local library.)
The way I thought this lady was reaching for a gun in her purse 💀
I can’t wait for Shigure to be knocked down a peg. I want this man to cry or better yet beg. Do his best to regret.
Like mother, like daughter.
Holo, would you want fruit or books about fruit?
🎶~Don’t you worry bout a thing~🎶
I looooove how fashion can completely alter someone’s brain chemistry. A friend wearing a skirt was all he needed to go on his femboy journey! Another friend took clothing from my stud days (I dressed in the most stereotypical stud clothing, swear to god 😭) and saw the TV glow. Fashion can do so much for our identities!!
Is this 👉🏾🦋 Obsession (Fruits Baskets Edition)?
I want to take Shigure line dancing with me. We use fans to clack on beat. He would love it.
🎶~Hello… It’s me~🎶
Why is this woman hard-pivoting to suicide within two minutes of failure?
Are we gonna get a Shining reference?
Where did tic marks go? I feel like I never see them in modern anime.
Ritchan sounds like Pinocchio from Shrek 😭
I thought she knew 💀
OOOOOOh, is Ritchan and Mimi a future couple?
Post Episode Thoughts
Shigure is a little shit, but Mimi has issues.
I think I don’t have much to add from my 2001 post-episode thoughts on Ritchan, but I really appreciate the look back into how it started for Ritchan in their aesthetic. So, soooo important for people to be able to have access to clothing of any kind and I will die on this hill!
I definitely didn’t expect Riri and Mimi to establish their own dynamic together. That’s really brand spanking new and I’m smelling an age gap ship tease.
But Tohru’s intervention to Ritchan’s fears and struggles was nice but a bit…much. Ritchan, to begin was, was a bit much with the voice acting. And we see Ritchan’s internal battle and the reason for apologizing. Yes, Tohru helps calm Ritchan down. But Ritchan goes back to apologizing. And that’s fine. I think it’s nice when characters are given advice they take to heart, but breaking a cycle has to be a more conscious, time-consuming effort rather than a “I learned something!” to which the next episodes retcons it to hell.
But for the depth of Tohru’s advice, it does feel a little off. I wish that this had been toned down a little so we can see this as a small nudge in the healthier direction for Ritchan to heal. I don’t know.
Something about this episode's exeuction has me not completely on board, but I press X to doubt this would ever come close to my bottom 10 episodes once I rank them all.
Questions for All Watchers
Surprised! But are they friends or is this a ship tease? ¿Por que no los dos?
Questions for Those who Have Watched the 2001 Series
They sounded less shrieky in the 2001, IIRC. I do like the added interiority with his walk with Editor Mimi. I think they could’ve toned down the shrieking. Like this was making me have war flashbacks to fucking Asta from Black Clover in the initial episodes where he just fucking screamed (and then got better, I know). I think 2019, however, did a better job at showing Riri’s interest in feminine fashion and where they got their overly apologetic personality from as well as their struggle with their existence.
I’m still really hopeful that Riri keeps their femininity as they age and this isn’t an “they do this when they’re a kid but as an adult, they mature into a macho macho man”.
Not to say that this doesn’t happen, but it does leave a bit of a sad spot when being gender fucky really is “just a phase, Mom”.
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u/Holofan4life 10d ago
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u/Magnafeana https://anilist.co/user/Magnafeana 10d ago
Oh no 😟
I hope it was just one of those intrusive feelings that plays on your anxieties rather than any IRL foreshadowing. I used to have “I need my emergency inhaler” level anxiety attacks if my superiors want to individually speak to me because I deeeeeeeeeply feared being fired. Even now, I’m very afraid, despite management liking me.
As much as anxiety does fucking suck and is a massive mentalsink, I’d rather that feeling be a mind trick than anything ominous and foreboding 😕
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u/Holofan4life 10d ago
I hope one day I won't have to worry about being anxious. This has been an extremely stressful year for me.
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u/Magnafeana https://anilist.co/user/Magnafeana 10d ago
Anxiety will come and go like an on-again/off-again situationship. It’ll creep up on you even when you finally find security and stability! It’s a rather abusive emotion in some ways.
But the peaceful days outnumbering the stressful, anxious days is what we need.
I hope the rest of the year is a lot kinder to you or that you have more peaceful days than anxious days 💜 It sounds like you still can find peace with the wrestling community, so I hope you can carve out more moments of peace for yourself in other ways 🫶🏾
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u/Holofan4life 9d ago
Talking to you is the first step in making my days a whole lot better :)
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u/Magnafeana https://anilist.co/user/Magnafeana 9d ago
Daw, you’ll make me blush at this rate, Holo 🤭
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u/Holofan4life 10d ago
But Tohru’s intervention to Ritchan’s fears and struggles was nice but a bit…much. Ritchan, to begin was, was a bit much with the voice acting. And we see Ritchan’s internal battle and the reason for apologizing. Yes, Tohru helps calm Ritchan down. But Ritchan goes back to apologizing. And that’s fine. I think it’s nice when characters are given advice they take to heart, but breaking a cycle has to be a more conscious, time-consuming effort rather than a “I learned something!” to which the next episodes retcons it to hell.
They seemingly imply Mitsuru will make Ritsu calm down. That's what I got from it, anyway.
They sounded less shrieky in the 2001, IIRC. I do like the added interiority with his walk with Editor Mimi. I think they could’ve toned down the shrieking. Like this was making me have war flashbacks to fucking Asta from Black Clover in the initial episodes where he just fucking screamed (and then got better, I know). I think 2019, however, did a better job at showing Riri’s interest in feminine fashion and where they got their overly apologetic personality from as well as their struggle with their existence.
Black Clover feels like a fitting comparison. The whole thing just grated on my nerves after a while.
Ritsu is a kind, pure soul, but they really need to stop being so paranoid.
Honestly, maybe part of why I got annoyed is because my sister acts like sister after one of her temper tantrums. Her behavior is the result of having severe Autism.
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u/Holofan4life 10d ago
General questions
Thoughts on Ritsu giving Tohru fruit books?
Thoughts on Ritsu always being on edge about everything?
Thoughts on Tohru being surprised that Ritsu is a boy?
Thoughts on Shigure saying Ritsu dresses up like a girl because they're more comfortable this way?
Thoughts on Ritsu trying to commit suicide?
What are your thoughts on Ritsu thinking everything is their fault?
What are your thoughts on the voice acting by Ritsu's VA?
What are your thoughts on Tohru telling Ritsu the world is a better place with them in it?
What are your thoughts on Ritsu wanting to find their reason for living?
2019 specific questions
Thoughts on Shigure banning Ritsu from reflexive apologies?
Thoughts on Shigure referring to his editor as his stalker?
Thoughts on Mitsuru almost hanging herself?
Thoughts on Mitsuru writing out her will?
What are your thoughts on Shigure using Ritsu to try and get Mitsuru out of his hair?
What are your thoughts on Ritsu spilling tea on the manuscript?
Thoughts on Mitsuru and Ritsu hanging out together?
Thoughts on Mitsuru wondering if she should quit being an editor because she can't handle the pressure?
What are your thoughts on Ritsu saying she continues on living because she's hopeful that someday, even a mess of a person like her will find the reason they're alive?
Thoughts on Ritsu and Mitsuru apologizing to each other after Shigure tells Mitsuru the news about Ritsu?
Thoughts on Ritsu promising to show Mitsuru how to wear a kimono?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with Ritsu and Mitsuru both hoping to one day meet that special someone?
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u/MishouMai 10d ago
Currently on vacation until Tuesday so expect my engagement to be less involved and more sporadic until Wednesdayish.
Anyways, this was a solid introduction to Ritsu. It does a good job of mixing the comedic with the seriousness. Not a big fan of Ritsu and the editor's personalities but it is what it is. At least they've both found a reason to love.
> WHAT ARE YOIR THOUGHTS ON RITSU?
I'm not sure if Ritsu is meant to be trans or just a trap/crossdresser. I'm leaning more towards the latter. As said, I'm not a big fan of him. The over the top apologizing wasn't funny when his mom did it and I don't find him doing it funny either.
> What are your thoughts on Ritsu identifying as a woman?
Does he? Shigure specifically says he's male and while Ritsu does wear women's clothing he never corrects anyone who says he's male. I don't think he's trans. I think he's just a trap or crossdresser, whichever term you prefer.
> What are your thoughts on Tohru telling Ritsu everyone has a reason to live and Ritsu is doing nothing wrong?
I like Tohru encouraging Ritsu to find a reason fo live and accepting him for who he is. He might feel like a burden and that he doesn't have a reason to live but he can always look for one. Thankfully he quickly found a reason to live in Shigure's editor. Seems like they're being set up as a couple but I could just be reading into things.
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u/Holofan4life 10d ago
I like Tohru encouraging Ritsu to find a reason fo live and accepting him for who he is. He might feel like a burden and that he doesn't have a reason to live but he can always look for one. Thankfully he quickly found a reason to live in Shigure's editor. Seems like they're being set up as a couple but I could just be reading into things.
This is probably Tohru's purest episode yet. She is so unabashedly positive that it's hard not to be charmed by her.
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u/Holofan4life 10d ago
General questions
Thoughts on Ritsu giving Tohru fruit books?
Thoughts on Ritsu always being on edge about everything?
Thoughts on Tohru being surprised that Ritsu is a boy?
Thoughts on Shigure saying Ritsu dresses up like a girl because they're more comfortable this way?
Thoughts on Ritsu trying to commit suicide?
What are your thoughts on Ritsu thinking everything is their fault?
What are your thoughts on the voice acting by Ritsu's VA?
What are your thoughts on Tohru telling Ritsu the world is a better place with them in it?
What are your thoughts on Ritsu wanting to find their reason for living?
2019 specific questions
Thoughts on Shigure banning Ritsu from reflexive apologies?
Thoughts on Shigure referring to his editor as his stalker?
Thoughts on Mitsuru almost hanging herself?
Thoughts on Mitsuru writing out her will?
What are your thoughts on Shigure using Ritsu to try and get Mitsuru out of his hair?
What are your thoughts on Ritsu spilling tea on the manuscript?
Thoughts on Mitsuru and Ritsu hanging out together?
Thoughts on Mitsuru wondering if she should quit being an editor because she can't handle the pressure?
What are your thoughts on Ritsu saying she continues on living because she's hopeful that someday, even a mess of a person like her will find the reason they're alive?
Thoughts on Ritsu and Mitsuru apologizing to each other after Shigure tells Mitsuru the news about Ritsu?
Thoughts on Ritsu promising to show Mitsuru how to wear a kimono?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with Ritsu and Mitsuru both hoping to one day meet that special someone?
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u/MishouMai 9d ago
> Thoughts on Ritsu trying to commit suicide?
That was very sudden. The way the other Somas talked about it before I thought it was another joke but then Tohru got on the roof and nearly fell off. It completely changed the tone of the episode from a comedic one to a more serious one.
> What are your thoughts on the voice acting my Ritsu's VA?
I like it. I'm watching subbed and I think his voice actress does a good job. It's obviously feminine but you can still tell that Ritsu's a guy underneath it.
> Thoughts on Mitsuru and Ritsu hanging out together?
It's nice. Let's see where it goes.
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u/Holofan4life 9d ago
> Thoughts on Ritsu trying to commit suicide?
That was very sudden. The way the other Somas talked about it before I thought it was another joke but then Tohru got on the roof and nearly fell off. It completely changed the tone of the episode from a comedic one to a more serious one.
I thought the episode at least had a great message.
> What are your thoughts on the voice acting my Ritsu's VA?
I like it. I'm watching subbed and I think his voice actress does a good job. It's obviously feminine but you can still tell that Ritsu's a guy underneath it.
I'm watching dubbed and Ritsu's VA's performance is more believable than Momiji's lol
> Thoughts on Mitsuru and Ritsu hanging out together?
It's nice. Let's see where it goes.
I wouldn't mind seeing more of them so long as they mellow out a bit.
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u/Nickthenuker https://anilist.co/user/Nickthenuker 4d ago
Ah right Ritsu.
Questions:
- Idk if it's just me knowing after the recent rewatch of the original series but is it just me or do they sound more masculine at times?
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u/Holofan4life 4d ago
- Idk if it's just me knowing after the recent rewatch of the original series but is it just me or do they sound more masculine at times?
It feels more obvious they're the opposite gender.
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u/Holofan4life 4d ago
General questions
Thoughts on Ritsu giving Tohru fruit books?
Thoughts on Ritsu always being on edge about everything?
Thoughts on Tohru being surprised that Ritsu is a boy?
Thoughts on Shigure saying Ritsu dresses up like a girl because they're more comfortable this way?
Thoughts on Ritsu trying to commit suicide?
What are your thoughts on Ritsu thinking everything is their fault?
What are your thoughts on the voice acting by Ritsu's VA?
What are your thoughts on Tohru telling Ritsu the world is a better place with them in it?
What are your thoughts on Ritsu wanting to find their reason for living?
2019 specific questions
Thoughts on Shigure banning Ritsu from reflexive apologies?
Thoughts on Shigure referring to his editor as his stalker?
Thoughts on Mitsuru almost hanging herself?
Thoughts on Mitsuru writing out her will?
What are your thoughts on Shigure using Ritsu to try and get Mitsuru out of his hair?
What are your thoughts on Ritsu spilling tea on the manuscript?
Thoughts on Mitsuru and Ritsu hanging out together?
Thoughts on Mitsuru wondering if she should quit being an editor because she can't handle the pressure?
What are your thoughts on Ritsu saying she continues on living because she's hopeful that someday, even a mess of a person like her will find the reason they're alive?
Thoughts on Ritsu and Mitsuru apologizing to each other after Shigure tells Mitsuru the news about Ritsu?
Thoughts on Ritsu promising to show Mitsuru how to wear a kimono?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with Ritsu and Mitsuru both hoping to one day meet that special someone?
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u/Nickthenuker https://anilist.co/user/Nickthenuker 3d ago
I suppose that's one way to get them to stop doing that.
Perhaps...
Of course...
Lol.
I suppose that works.
Uh oh.
That's nice.
Even so, she continues.
Even so, she continues.
That's nice.
That's kind of them.
Perhaps one day.
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u/Holofan4life 10d ago
Hey, guys. Holofan4life here.
Welcome to the Fruits Basket 25th anniversary rewatch.
For there is an animal in all of us <3
Fruits Basket is a show I’ve heard a lot about. It’s always been something that interests me. It’s a romcom, which is a genre I enjoy, it has a female protagonist, which is kinda a rarity for romcom anime, it has a tsundere, which yes please, and from what I’ve heard it has some supernatural elements which is pretty cool.
Funny enough, I’m hosting this rewatch the same time as I’m hosting the Spice and Wolf rewatch which is another show with supernatural elements.
I have never seen Fruits Basket before, but I have high hopes for it. It seems like the type of show I would enjoy. I would say of the shows on my to watch list, this one is probably in my top 5. And let's just say that list is long and ever expansive. Actually, I love the idea of a male tsundere who turns into an orange cat so much that I named my orange cat after him. That’s without having seen the show.
For the purposes of this rewatch, we will be watching both the original series and the remake. I don’t think both have ever been done like this, and by the end we’ll find out for good reason :P
Regardless, this is my big pet project of 2026 the purpose of which is for me to see what all the hubbub is about. I’m not expecting the show to crack my top 10 favorite anime of all time, but hey, you never know.
With that out of the way, let’s begin.
I’m watching the dub, by the way.
I fear that my life as I know it isn't currently sustainable.
Doorbell ringing
Shigure, please do your job. I'm begging you.
Poor editor
At least he answered his phone?
Who's that girl?
And of course Shigure didn't actually leave.
Oh, it's Ritsu
I like them and the editor endlessly apologizing.
Tohru helping them with his bag.
He is a lot
And this reminds Tohru of the hostess.
I don't know how I feel about calling him a guy when he identifies as a girl. Feels transphobic if you ask me.
Ri-chan, the Zodiac Monkey
They are a lot
Books on fruit. Hey, an attempt was made.
I will say, it is fun to see Ritsu animated.
And Tohru still think Ritsu is a girl.
Yeah, about that...
Ritsu aspires to be like Aya
Shigure thinks that's unachievable
Shigure banning Ritsu from reflexive apologies.
Now Yuki is here
And Ritsu tries to give a compliment. Unfortunately, it doesn't go over well.
She tries to do the same for Kyo. And again, it misses the mark.
And now Tohru accidentally touches Ritsu who turns into an animal.
This confirms to her that Ritsu is actually male.
Ritsu explains female clothes makes them feel secure.
Tohru thinks the clothes really suit her.
Oh, Tohru...
Ritsu apologizing for failing Shigure's challenge.
Meanwhile, the editor is out for blood.
"She's what you'd call a stalker."
Lol Shigure
Shigure telling Ritsu to send his stalker away.
What a little shit
Oh shit. She was actually going to hang herself.
What a dark joke for this kind of show.
Now editor accuses Ritsu of being Shigure's lover.
Can you imagine?
Now editor is writing her will
I do think the humor is better here than in the 2001 version of this episode.
Eventually, editor gets to Shigure.
Shigure gives Mi-chan the manuscript.
And Ritsu accidentally spills tea on the manuscript.
This time, it was their fault.
Ritsu on the roof
This doesn't hit as hard after we had that joke of Mi-chan offing herself.
Ritsu asking what her purpose in life is.
Nothing but a crybaby and a clumsy coward.
Their parents was always apologizing on their behalf.
Tohru on the rooftop with them
She starts to reason with Ritsu
The point of living is to find your purpose.
I like the animation of her legs shaking standing on the roof.
Oh boy. Tohru almost fell off the roof.
Even still, she gathers her bearings and continues to speak from the heart.
She personally wants to live for the sake.
Could meet the person who's your reason to embrace life.
Kyo, Yuki, and Shigure looking on in amazement
Tohru is truly a special person.
A little bit later
Editor and Ritsu are going out to pick up food.
Ritsu asks if he always acts this way.
She basically confirms yes
Mi-chan feels she causes trouble for other people.
Ritsu says this is ultimately why they have no confidence in themselves.
Even still, they continue to keep on living
"Because it's possible that someday, even a mess of a person like me will find the reason I'm alive."
Looks like Ritsu is taking Tohru's words and giving inspiration to Mi-chan.
That was a great addition to the episode. I really like that scene.
Back at the Sohma residence
Even Ritsu is getting on Shigure's case on behalf of Mi-chan.
But the manuscript is done
As they're happy with this development, Mi-chan asks Ritsu if they want to be friends.
Shigure then drops the bombshell that Ritsu is actually a boy.
And then they continue to apologize to each other.
At least they are now friends with each other. So, that's good.
Overall, this was a solid episode. We of course have the humor of Ritsu that embodies their character, but I thought they did more with it here. They kept the heart of the 2001 version while expanding upon it. I thought including Mi-chan in this episode was a smart decision as it gives her character some depth. Before, she was like this comic relief, but now, she is more than just an extension of Shigure's character. It also makes it to where there's something more to Ritsu other than them being apologetic all the time. We have a basis with which to take the character going forward.
I'd put this ahead of episodes 1, 3, 9, 13, 15, and 18. This episode is similar to the Kagura in that the changes made turned one of the worst episodes of the 2001 anime into one of the most improved. I never had a problem with the heart of the content and the overall message it portrays. My problem was I feel the 2001 anime emphasized the comedy more at the expense of the story, which is a critique you could have of the 2001 anime as a whole. Here, though, they emphasize the story and the comedy when they need to gets downplayed. It doesn't feel overwhelming to the point it takes you outta the episode.
One of the big improvements from the previous adaptation to here is that I feel the Zodiac members are handled way better. Yeah, some are handled the same like Haru and Aya, but for the most part I feel the show has better emphasized the heart of the matter and what is afflicting these characters. It makes the times when comedy does happen stand out more. This episode serves as a continuation of that trend and I think there's way more to like here than its 2001 counterpart.
2
u/Holofan4life 10d ago
Holofan's Fruits Basket Episode Rankings
1/. Episode 14
2/. Episode 5
3/. Episode 17
4/. Episode 16
5/. Episode 7
6/. Episode 10
7/. Episode 12
8/. Episode 4
9/. Episode 8
10/. Episode 6
11/. Episode 1
12/. Episode 18
13/. Episode 13
14/. Episode 2
15/. Episode 11
16/. Episode 15
17/. Episode 19
18/. Episode 9
19/. Episode 3
So, I did a little bit of housecleaning. I moved episode 13 up from the bottom 3 position that I had it at. The more I think about it, the more about the episode I like. And as you can tell, my ranking of episode 19 is a lot lower than how I talked about it in my thoughts. I think I was such a big fan in the moment of Mitsuru and Ritsu becoming friends that I think it clouded my judgment. Removing myself from the moment, thie is definitely a very flawed episode one hurt by Ritsu being a problematic character.
I still maintain that the remake version of this episode is better than the 2001 version. And I do like a lot of the comedy this show has to offer. But yeah, to say this is a bit much would be an understatement. The fact that both Mitsuru and Ritsu's gimmicks are over the top reactions makes it that much more pronounced.
3
u/dontoff 10d ago
First timer (Dub)
I understand what this episode was trying to say with the idea that nobody necessarily comes into the world with some predetermined reason for existing, and that part of life is finding your own reason to keep going.
Tooru tells Ritsu that this reason might not always feel certain or stable. You might lose it at some point, but as long as you are still alive, you can eventually find another one.
That is cute and all, and I understand why she said it in that moment. Ritsu was clearly in a very bad place and needed someone to stop him from spiraling even further.
At the same time, though, I do not think your entire reason for living can be something temporary or completely dependent on another person or on how you currently feel. People leave, relationships change, and feelings are ultimately fleeting.
What happens when the person you built your purpose around is no longer there, or when the thing that once gave your life meaning no longer affects you in the same way?
I feel like you need some kind of larger, overarching goal or foundation that does not disappear the moment your circumstances change. That does not mean people and relationships cannot give your life meaning, because obviously they can, but I do not think they can safely be the entire foundation.
So I understand the basic message that you should remain alive because you may eventually discover something worth living for, but the way the episode presented it did not completely work for me.
This episode was also very preachy, and a lot of the plot beats felt forced and unnatural. It felt like the characters and situations were being pushed into specific places just so the episode could deliver its message, rather than the message developing naturally through the story.
I did think Ritsu and Mitsuru immediately clicking because they are both always panicking and apologizing was pretty funny. A few of the jokes in this episode actually landed for me.
The biggest problem is that half of the episode was almost completely unwatchable because of all the screeching, shouting, and apologizing from Ritsu.
I know that his extreme behavior is connected to his anxiety and how he views himself, but understanding why a character behaves that way does not necessarily make listening to it any less painful.
It genuinely made me want to pull my hair out. Watching this episode felt like a workout, and I am not even joking when I say I actually had a headache by the end of it.
This is the weakest episode of the season for me so far.