Nozomi Entertainment previously picked up a new property for release as they announced the acquisition of the Sayonara, Zetsubou-Sensei series back in the summer of 2019. In September 2021, we saw them asking if fans would like a limited edition release that would include the extensive liner notes in a physical book. This version is set for release on April 19th, 2022 where it’ll be priced at $79.99 for the first season run of twelve episodes and will come with the Japanese promos and clean ending as on-disc extras.
The second set is scheduled for an April 18th, 2023 release. This, not surprisingly, is slimmed down a bit with a $59.99 price point and is a standard edition only. The set is in its original Japanese language with English subtitles once again and comes with the clean theme songs and a commercial collection for it. It’ll have the full thirteen-episode season plus the three OVAs.
While we’re not getting a physical book of liner notes, a digital version is being produced and you can now take a sneak peek at what they’re working on for this release in the video below.
The series was directed by Akiyuki Simbo based on the series composition by Kenichi Kanemaki based on the manga by Koji Kumeta. Hideyuki Morioka worked on the character designs with SHAFT handling the animation production.
The Japanese cast includes Hiroshi Kamiya as Nozomu Itoshiki, Ai Nonaka as Kafuka Fūra, Asami Sanada as Matoi Tsunetsuki, Asuka Tanii as Kiri Komori, Marina Inoue as Chiri Kitsu, Miyu Matsuki as Harumi Fujiyoshi, Miyuki Sawashiro as Maria Tarō Sekiutsu, Ryoko Shintani as Nami Hitō, Yu Kobayashi as Kaere Kimura, and Yuko Goto as Abiru Kobushi.
The series was at one time licensed by Media Blasters but that contract was terminated.
Plot Concept: “I’ve lost all hope in this world!”
Nozomu Itoshiki is a teacher who’s at the end of his rope. Literally. He’s trying to hang himself from a beautiful cherry tree, when one of his students, a girl named Kafuka, butts in and saves his life. She can’t help it, though. Kafuka is an abnormally cheerful girl who can only see the good in every situation.
In fact, all of Nozomu’s students are a bit odd. Chiri is a hyper-perfectionist, Matoi is a female stalker, Usui is a balding masochist, and the list goes on. Nozomu is supposed to be preparing these young men and women for the future – but since his idea of “preparing for the future” involves tying nooses and buying funeral plots, he might not be the best man for the job.
Filled with dark humor and sharp social commentary, Sayonara, Zetsubou-sensei finally has its first-ever North American release. Come lose all hope with this absurd comedy!
Also included is the ultimate book of liner notes, over 200 pages long! Sayonara Zetsubou-sensei is famous for its non-stop cultural references, visual gags, and ever-changing chalkboard text. With this essential guide, you won’t miss a thing!
