
© GEEK TOYSKazusa Takashima
Overview
'Phantom in the Twilight' immerses viewers in a mysterious and suspenseful narrative that blends supernatural elements with psychological tension. The story follows Kotoko Souma, a young woman who moves to London to study abroad and escape the monotony of her everyday life. However, her journey takes a dark turn when she becomes entangled in a hidden world of vampires, werewolves, and other supernatural beings. After stumbling upon a peculiar café called 'Doorkeeper,' Kotoko discovers that the establishment serves as a sanctuary for these creatures, offering them refuge from humans who fear and hunt them. As she begins working at the café, Kotoko forms deep bonds with its enigmatic patrons, including the brooding vampire lord Dylan Cecil, the cheerful yet secretive werewolf Luke, and the stoic bartender Seira. Together, they navigate the delicate balance between humans and supernatural entities, uncovering long-buried secrets and confronting dangerous threats that seek to disrupt their fragile coexistence. Themes of trust, identity, and the blurred line between good and evil permeate the narrative, creating a deeply emotional experience. The series blends intense action sequences with moments of introspection, exploring the psychological toll of living in a world where danger lurks beneath the surface. With its atmospheric animation, intricate character designs, and thought-provoking commentary on prejudice and acceptance, 'Phantom in the Twilight' captivates audiences, delivering a gripping tale of mystery, camaraderie, and self-discovery.
Opinion
'Phantom in the Twilight' stands out as a visually atmospheric and emotionally engaging entry in the supernatural-drama genre, offering a perfect blend of mystery, romance, and character-driven storytelling. At its core is Kotoko Souma, a protagonist whose journey from an ordinary student to a key figure in a hidden supernatural world is portrayed with remarkable authenticity. Her growth arc—from feeling out of place in a foreign city to finding purpose and belonging among the café's patrons—is both relatable and inspiring, showcasing the power of resilience and empathy. The supporting cast adds further depth to the narrative, particularly Dylan Cecil, whose aloof demeanor hides a complex past, and Luke, whose lighthearted charm masks deeper insecurities. Visually, the series impresses with its moody animation during supernatural encounters, capturing the eerie beauty of London's streets and the intensity of confrontations with hostile forces. The soundtrack complements the tone perfectly, heightening tension during pivotal moments and adding emotional weight to quieter, more reflective scenes. However, the anime isn’t without its flaws. Some episodes focus heavily on setup and exposition, which may feel slow-paced to viewers seeking constant action or external conflict. Additionally, certain plot threads—such as the motivations of antagonists and the overarching mystery behind the supernatural world—are left underdeveloped, leaving untapped potential for richer storytelling. That said, these minor issues don’t detract significantly from the overall experience. What makes 'Phantom in the Twilight' truly special is its ability to weave profound themes into its fantastical premise. It explores ideas like the importance of trust, the value of acceptance, and the resilience required to bridge divides between different worlds, ensuring it resonates on multiple levels. For fans of shoujo anime with a mix of supernatural and drama elements, this series offers plenty to admire, even if it occasionally leans into familiar tropes. Ultimately, 'Phantom in the Twilight' reminds us that true strength lies not in wielding power but in embracing change and striving for unity amidst chaos.
Characters
Kotoko Souma
Voice: Ayane Sakura
Dylan Cecil
Voice: Yoshimasa Hosoya
Luke
Voice: Junya Enoki
Credits
Author
Kazusa Takashima
Studio
GEEK TOYS
Cover Art
N/A
Publisher
Hakusensha
Producers
Happy Elements, Liden Films, Tokyo MX, BS Fuji, Crunchyroll