Series & First Appearance
Ritsuka Uenoyama is a prominent character from the anime and manga series "Given," which was created by Natsuki Kizu. He made his debut in the first chapter of the manga and is a central figure throughout the storyline. The anime adaptation, produced by Lerche, aired in 2019 and has further popularized the character.
Profile at a Glance
Ritsuka Uenoyama is a 16-year-old protagonist known for his role as the main guitarist in a high school band. He is a member of a scientific course and also juggles a part-time job. Uenoyama is particularly captivated by Mafuyu Sato’s unique voice and his overall personality, which drives much of the narrative forward.
Personality & Motivations
Ritsuka is characterized by his laid-back demeanor, keen musical talent, and a strong sense of responsibility. He often appears pragmatic but possesses a deep emotional layer, especially when it comes to music and his relationships. As a musician, he is motivated by the pursuit of genuine expression through his art; he often finds himself conflicted about balancing his aspirations with personal relationships, particularly with Mafuyu. Notably, Uenoyama is a bit of a perfectionist when it comes to music but can be seen as somewhat dismissive or impatient towards others initially, which leads to development throughout the series.
Abilities / Powers
Ritsuka’s standout ability lies in his exceptional guitar skills, contributing significantly to the band’s dynamic. He has a good sense of music theory and often helps with songwriting and arrangements. Though primarily focused on his instrumentation, he also showcases emotional intelligence through his ability to connect with others, especially during performances. While Ritsuka does not possess supernatural powers, his character evolves through the emotional power of music, ultimately showing growth in his interpersonal relationships and self-awareness.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Key plot points in Ritsuka’s arc include his initial disinterest in Mafuyu’s musical potential, which changes after a pivotal performance at a local venue. His growth is marked by moments of self-discovery as he learns to appreciate Mafuyu not only as a vocalist but as a friend. Throughout the series, he confronts his own insecurities and learns to embrace vulnerability, especially in his interactions with the band members and their evolving camaraderie. The climax of his character development occurs during the emotional culmination of the band’s tour, where he acknowledges the profound connection between music, love, and loss.
Notable Relationships
Ritsuka shares a complex relationship with Mafuyu Sato, the soulful vocalist whose talent inspires him. Their dynamic serves as a push-pull throughout the series, defined by Uenoyama’s protective nature and gradual deepening feelings for Mafuyu. He also has noteworthy interactions with bandmates Akihiko Kaji and Haru Kato, each of whom brings distinct elements to both the music and the narrative. Akihiko acts as a mentor figure, helping Ritsuka navigate the complexities of band life and personal issues.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One memorable moment occurs when Ritsuka first hears Mafuyu sing, which sparks a transformative journey for him; this scene is pivotal in the anime’s first episode, showcasing how music can evoke profound change. A significant quote from Ritsuka is, “It’s not just about the notes; it’s about how you feel when you play,” which encapsulates the emotional journey shared among the characters and resonates with fans who appreciate music’s impact on personal growth.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Ritsuka Uenoyama has been positively received in fan circles, ranking high in various popularity polls, with thousands of members listing him as a favorite. His character design reflects Natsuki Kizu’s distinctive art style, emphasizing a relatable yet striking appearance. The character is voiced by Yūichi Nakamura in the Japanese version and Matt Shipman in the English dub. Additionally, the themes of musical passion and emotional connection found in Ritsuka’s journey parallel real-life experiences for many viewers, contributing to the character’s enduring popularity and relatability.
In summary, Ritsuka Uenoyama serves as a compelling representation of how music intertwines with personal struggles and relationships, embodying a journey of self-discovery that resonates with a diverse audience.
