Chapter 399 of the manga Kanojo, Okarishimasu (Rent-A-Girlfriend). It has caused a real astonishment on social networks. Readers noted that Kazuya Kinoshitathe protagonist, appears with a drastic change of look that makes him look surprisingly similar to his creator, Reiji Miyajima. The short haircut, the more sober style and the mature air of the character ignited comparisons and memes. Although the plot continues to explore Kazuya's personal and professional challenges, what really captured attention was this apparent self-portrait within the manga.
Fandom reaction and similarity to the author
In forums and networks like reddit and Twitter/Xthe comments multiplied immediately. Many fans assured that Kazuyait looks like an animated version of Miyajimawhile others joked that the author ultimately wrote himself into the story. One of the most popular comments states:
“He literally went back twelve years. Now he looks like a college freshman again.”
The visual resemblance is undeniable: short hair, firmer gaze and less naive expression.
Furthermore, the change occurs in a symbolic moment within the manga of Rent-A-Girlfriend. Two weeks have passed since the kiss with Chizuruand Kazuya faces job interviews with an artificial intelligence, which underlines his attempt to take a step towards maturity and independence. In parallel, his 22nd birthday finds him alone, with the absence of the main girls, and an unexpected reunion with Mommy during your driving course. All of this creates an introspective atmosphere that reinforces the idea of a new beginning for the character.
Kazuya's change and its context
This redesign of Kazuya could have multiple readings. From a narrative perspective, it symbolizes a change of stage in your life. Leaving behind your most immature version to open up to adulthood. The fact that he is now looking for a job and showing greater responsibility coincides with the more serious tone that the manga Rent-A-Girlfriend has acquired in the last chapters. Her shorter, more natural hair can be seen as a reflection of that emotional maturation process.
On the other hand, the similarity with Reiji Miyajima It doesn't seem to be a complete coincidence. In Japansome readers have commented on forums like 5channel that the author projects part of himself onto Kazuya. something common between mangakas that seek to transmit personal experiences. Miyajima has made no official statement about whether he based the character's new design on his own appearance, but his brand of self-referential humor leaves the door open to that possibility.
Meanwhile, the fandom continues to react with enthusiasm: there are fanarts, memes and even side-by-side comparisons of the mangaka and the protagonist. The transformation of Kazuya has not only renewed interest in the series. But it has also revived the conversation about how creators consciously or unconsciously reflect themselves in their works.
Post a Comment