Overview of BELLE#
BELLE (also known as Ryū to Sobakasu no Hime) is a compelling blend of drama, fantasy, romance, and science fiction. The story follows Suzu Naito, a shy and socially awkward 17-year-old high school student struggling with the trauma of her mother’s death.
While Suzu is anxious in her daily life, she maintains a close bond with her best friend, Hiroka Betsuyaku. A computer whiz, Hiroka decides to shake up the social hierarchy by helping Suzu create a virtual persona. On the massive social media site known as “U,” Suzu is reinvented as the singing sensation Belle. This duality creates a poignant conflict between Suzu’s real-world struggles and her virtual success.
If you are looking to experience this visual and emotional journey, you can watch the anime on Prime Video.
Is the Anime Really Finished?#
Yes, BELLE is a standalone anime film released on July 15, 2021. Because it is a feature-length movie rather than a serialized television show, it provides a complete, self-contained narrative. Viewers can expect a satisfying conclusion without the need to seek out additional source material to wrap up the plot.
If you enjoyed the film and want to bring a piece of the “U” site home, you can buy BELLE merchandise here.
Who Is This Anime For?#
BELLE is best suited for audiences who enjoy character-driven stories that explore the intersection of technology and human emotion. Its primary appeal lies in its exploration of the following themes:
Key Themes#
- Virtual Reality and Technology: The film examines how social-networking and virtual spaces can allow people to express parts of themselves they hide in the real world.
- Music: Music serves as a central pillar of the story, acting as the bridge between Suzu’s trauma and her healing.
- Family and Healing: At its heart, the movie is about dealing with loss and the enduring bonds of family.
If you find these themes resonant, this film is a must-watch. If you appreciate the work we do in helping you navigate your anime watchlist, please consider supporting us on Ko-fi!
Recommended Watch Order#
Because BELLE is a single film, the watch order is incredibly straightforward.
The Completionist Order#
For those who want the full experience, simply watch the film released in 2021. There are no prequels, sequels, or mandatory side stories to worry about. You can refer to the relationship tree below to see the official release date and entry.
For Source Material Seekers#
Since the anime is a self-contained film, there is no requirement to read additional materials to understand the ending. However, for those who enjoy collecting related media, you can search for available written materials to see if any companion pieces match your interests.
BELLE • anime • 2021-07-15
