“Rainbow: Nisha Rokubou no Shichinin” is a gripping anime series that delves into the harsh realities of life in a reformatory. The series, set in Japan in 1955, follows the lives of seven boys who are put into the same holding cell in the reformatory of Shio12.
Each boy comes from a different past but suffers the same fate, forced to do time in the reformatory1. The story begins when Mario Minakami arrives at Shounan Special Reform School along with five other teenagers who have been arrested on serious criminal charges3. They meet older inmate Rokurouta Sakuragi, a former boxer, with whom they establish a close bond3.
The series explores themes of friendship, resilience, and redemption against a backdrop of suffering and injustice12. The boys create a bond forged through pain, suffering, and death1. They learn to cope with the atrocities and unfairness they encounter there2.
The narrative is both heart-wrenching and inspiring, highlighting the struggles the lower class faced in post-war Japanese society2. The series presents a stark depiction of life in a reformatory, fraught with brutality and humiliation inflicted upon them by sadistic guards and doctors3.
Despite the grim circumstances, the boys manage to find hope and camaraderie amongst themselves. Their shared experiences and collective struggle for survival forge an unbreakable bond between them13.
The anime is visually striking, featuring original character designs and animation by Madhouse3. The atmospheric soundtrack further enhances the series’ intense and somber mood3.
“Rainbow: Nisha Rokubou no Shichinin” is not just an anime; it’s an exploration of human resilience in the face of adversity. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in thought-provoking narratives and storytelling13.