Kemono Jihen

Kemono Jihen plunges viewers into a captivating realm where the mundane intersects with the mystical. Produced by the adept Ajia-do studio and first aired in January 2021, this supernatural action-mystery anime unravels a chilling tale beginning in a secluded rural village. Here, a peculiar epidemic causes domestic animals to perish inexplicably, their forms decaying overnight. Enter Kohachi Inugami, a seasoned detective specializing in the occult, whose investigation leads him to a perplexing encounter. He crosses paths with Kabane Kusaka, a quiet, shunned boy known by the villagers as "Dorotabō," a name echoing a mud-dwelling yokai, due to his unusual nature as a half-human, half-monster. Kabane's personal quest to unearth his origins and locate his estranged parents becomes inextricably linked with Inugami's probe into the bizarre occurrences. This fateful meeting propels Kabane into a clandestine world teeming with demons, spirits, and unique demi-humans collectively known as Kemono. He soon joins Inugami's eccentric detective agency, forming bonds with other extraordinary individuals like Shiki Tademaru, a spirited boy with spider-like abilities, and the enigmatic Akira. Together, they confront a web of formidable adversaries, most notably the cunning and ruthlessly ambitious kitsune, Yoko Inari, who schemes to manipulate mystical artifacts called Calculi for her own dominion. The series masterfully weaves together intricate drama, nail-biting suspense, and exhilarating battles against a backdrop rich with Japanese folklore, delving deep into profound themes of identity, the complexities of coexistence between different beings, and the very essence of humanity. Its atmospheric rural setting and the evolving dynamics among its compelling characters elevate Kemono Jihen into a truly absorbing and thought-provoking entry in the action-supernatural genre.

Kemono Jihen stands out as a compelling journey into the supernatural, expertly blending gripping mystery with dynamic action, all underpinned by a poignant emotional core. Ajia-do's animation is a highlight, delivering fluid and vivid sequences that bring the world of Kemono to life. The darker, eerie aesthetic is perfectly suited to the occult themes, enhancing the sense of dread and wonder. Voice acting is superb, with Kaisei Kamimura's portrayal of Kabane Kusaka particularly resonating, capturing his quiet determination and vulnerability. The narrative pacing strikes an admirable balance, seamlessly transitioning between episodic monster-of-the-week investigations and the overarching, intricate plot involving complex antagonists like Yoko Inari. Her morally ambiguous ambitions add significant depth, preventing a simplistic good-versus-evil dichotomy. Character development, especially for Kabane, is a strong suit; his quest for self-discovery and belonging, alongside a diverse and well-realized cast, enriches the story's emotional landscape. Thematic explorations of coexistence between humans and Kemono are handled with nuance, inviting viewers to ponder identity and acceptance without resorting to easy answers. Amidst the tension, moments of humor and camaraderie provide welcome relief, further solidifying the bonds within Inugami's agency. The soundtrack complements the mood impeccably, amplifying suspense during critical junctures and underscoring emotional beats. While it may lean on some genre conventions, Kemono Jihen’s distinct interpretation of demons and half-human entities, coupled with its robust character work and an absorbing plot, offers a uniquely satisfying experience for fans of dark fantasy and supernatural detective stories.