Kemono Jihen

Characters & Voice Actors

Akira BACKGROUND	Ayumu Murase
Kohachi Inugami MAIN	Junichi Suwabe
Kabane Kusaka MAIN	Natsumi Fujiwara
Shiki Tademaru MAIN	Natsuki Hanae

Kemono Jihen – A Supernatural Thriller That Roars with Potential

“Kemono Jihen” emerges as a thrilling addition to the world of supernatural anime, seamlessly blending elements of mystery, action, and folklore. Set against a backdrop of rural Japan, this series follows the exploits of a mysterious group tasked with investigating enigmatic occurrences involving supernatural creatures, or ‘kemono’.

At its core, “Kemono Jihen” shines through its compelling characters. The enigmatic protagonist, Kabane, is a half-human, half-tanuki boy, whose unique heritage sets the stage for both riveting action sequences and moments of emotional introspection. His interactions with the supporting cast, each possessing their own distinct abilities and backstories, forge a dynamic and engaging ensemble. Watching their relationships evolve, from reluctant allies to steadfast comrades, adds depth and complexity to the narrative.

The animation in “Kemono Jihen” is notably crisp and detailed. The dark and moody aesthetics serve to heighten the eerie atmosphere, perfectly complementing the supernatural elements of the plot. Action scenes are fluidly choreographed, and the creature designs are imaginatively crafted, exuding a sense of both beauty and terror.

The series does an admirable job in world-building, delving into Japanese folklore and mythology to breathe life into its supernatural elements. The integration of yokai, or traditional Japanese monsters, adds an authentic layer of cultural depth to the narrative, offering fans of the genre a fresh and engaging experience.

One of the standout aspects of “Kemono Jihen” is its ability to balance moments of intense action with quieter, character-driven scenes. These moments of respite allow for meaningful character development and exploration of themes such as identity, acceptance, and the blurry line between good and evil. The series tackles these subjects with nuance, giving weight and significance to the characters’ personal journeys.

However, it’s worth noting that at times, the pacing can be a bit uneven. While the slower moments contribute to character development, they occasionally slow down the overall narrative momentum. Some viewers may find themselves wishing for a more brisk progression of the plot.

In conclusion, “Kemono Jihen” is a standout anime that masterfully combines supernatural elements with compelling character dynamics. Its well-executed blend of action, mystery, and folklore creates an immersive viewing experience that keeps viewers eagerly anticipating each new episode. While the pacing may occasionally falter, the series more than compensates with its rich world-building, intriguing characters, and thought-provoking themes. For fans of the supernatural genre, “Kemono Jihen” is an absolute must-watch that promises an exhilarating and captivating journey.