The highly anticipated anime adaptation of Ko Nikaido’s slice-of-life manga, With You and the Rain (雨と君と, Ame to Kimi to), is officially slated for a July 2025 premiere. The announcement comes with the reveal of the main cast and key staff members who will bring this heartwarming story to the screen. Fans of the manga have eagerly awaited this adaptation, and now the details are finally here.
Main Cast Announcement
The anime will feature a talented cast of voice actors to bring the characters to life. Here is the list of the main voice cast:
- Fuji will be voiced by the acclaimed Saori Hayami. Hayami is well known for her roles in various popular anime, and her experience should bring a unique depth to the character of Fuji.
- Mimi will be voiced by Yuna Kamakura. Kamakura’s voice acting is expected to capture the unique personality of Mimi.
- Ren will be voiced by Satomi Satō. Satō’s talent in portraying varied characters will add an intriguing aspect to the role of Ren.
- Krause Ella Kii will be voiced by Yuzu Yumoto. Yumoto’s performance will be essential to bringing the character to life.
Key Staff Members
The anime adaptation is being brought to life by a dedicated team of industry professionals. Here are the key staff members:
- Director: Tomohiro Tsukimisato (known for Kirakira Kirari☆, Bikkuri-Men, and Tanuki to Kitsune) will be directing the anime. Tsukimisato’s prior works demonstrate his ability to handle heartwarming and unique stories, making him a fitting choice for this adaptation.
- Series Script Supervisor: Touko Machida (7th Time Loop: The Villainess Enjoys a Carefree Life, Battle Game in 5 Seconds) is in charge of the series scripts. Machida’s prior work demonstrates her expertise in crafting engaging narratives.
- Character Designer: Ayano Ōwada (Bikkuri-Men, How Clumsy you are, Miss Ueno) will be responsible for character design. Ōwada’s experience ensures that the characters will be visually appealing and true to the manga’s style.
- Animation Studio: The anime is being produced by Lesprit, a studio known for its commitment to quality animation.
Story and Setting
With You and the Rain is a heartwarming slice-of-life story that revolves around a woman and a mysterious “dog” she encounters on a rainy evening. The premise is simple yet charming: a woman finds an animal in a box, which is waiting to be adopted. This “dog,” which has written that he wants to be adopted, comes to live with the woman. Despite initial uncertainties, the woman believes her new companion is a dog, and their peaceful new life together begins. The anime will explore the nuances of their relationship and the daily experiences they share.
Manga Origins
The original manga, written and illustrated by Ko Nikaido, has been serialized in Kodansha’s Weekly Young Magazine since August 2020. It has garnered a loyal following for its gentle humor, emotional depth, and unique take on the slice-of-life genre. The manga’s success has led to the release of seven tankōbon volumes as of September 5, 2024. Kodansha USA has licensed the manga for digital release in North America. The manga is described by Kodansha as: “If it looks like a dog and acts like a dog and insists it’s a dog, it’s…a dog? Probably?”
Anticipation and Reception
The anime announcement has generated significant excitement within the anime community. The combination of a beloved manga, a talented cast and staff, and a unique premise has fans eagerly anticipating its July 2025 debut. The original manga creator, Ko Nikaido, has expressed their excitement about the anime adaptation. They shared an illustration inspired by their tour of the animation studio and commented on how well they were treated during their visit, adding to the anticipation among fans. The manga has reportedly sold over 500,000 copies, further cementing its popularity and demand for the anime adaptation.
Themes and Genre
The anime falls under the comedy and slice-of-life genres, promising a relaxing and heartwarming viewing experience. The themes of companionship, self-discovery, and the simple joys of everyday life will likely be central to the series. It is expected that the anime will retain the manga’s gentle humor and emotional depth, appealing to a wide audience. The story is a blend of comedy and heart, promising a unique narrative that sets it apart from other anime in the genre.
Production Details
The anime is being produced by Lesprit, known for their high-quality work in animation. The studio’s involvement adds to the excitement surrounding the project, as fans expect a visually stunning and emotionally resonant adaptation. The character designs by Ayano Ōwada are particularly anticipated, as they will translate the manga’s unique style to the animated medium.
A Look Ahead
With You and the Rain is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated anime releases of 2025. With a talented cast, experienced staff, and a captivating story, the anime promises to be a must-watch for fans of slice-of-life and comedy genres. The combination of gentle humor and heartwarming moments is expected to create a viewing experience that is both enjoyable and emotionally resonant. The anime will premiere in July 2025, and fans around the world are eagerly awaiting its release. The show is expected to be a standout of the summer 2025 anime season.
