Westernizing anime and manga, literally translating some of the eccentricities of the medium into live action without caring for nuances, has resulted in disastrous consequences in the past. Netflix’s old releases like small screen adaptations of Cowboy Bebop, or live action Death Note movies hold testament to that. The recently released Netflix series, Bet, inspired by Kakegurui manga/anime, repeats similar mistakes in its narrative treatment – resulting in some caricature-ish characterization. However, amidst all the characters that have appeared in the series, the oft silent, mask wearing member of Black Jackets student council, Riri, seems quite interesting. Possibly because she isn’t blabbering obnoxious and nonsensical stuff most of the time like most of the other players, and shows a bit of complexity which contrasts with the overly comical nature of the rest of the bunch.

Spoilers Ahead

Exploring Riri’s Past

Riri in Netflix’s Bet is inspired...