"This Monster Wants to Eat Me" Anime: Intense Premise Meets Mixed Reception in First Episodes

The eagerly anticipated anime adaptation of Sai Naekawa's "This Monster Wants to Eat Me" has officially premiered, sparking considerable discussion among enthusiasts of supernatural, yuri, and dark fantasy genres. Now featured prominently on Crunchyroll as part of the Fall 2025 anime lineup, the initial two episodes offer a compelling, though somewhat subtle, introduction to its dark and intricate world.

While critics acknowledge the successful establishment of its unique premise and the thoughtful introduction of its key characters, early reviews suggest a desire for a more potent infusion of horror and a heightened sense of urgency to truly elevate the viewing experience.

A Bond Forged in Despair and Danger

At the core of the narrative is Hinako, a high school student grappling with profound grief following the tragic loss of her family, consumed by a longing for oblivion. Her desolate existence takes an unexpected and chilling turn when she encounters Shiori, a mysterious mermaid. Shiori's unsettling declaration that she intends to devour Hinako once she reaches her full maturity establishes a deeply complex and unsettling bond, intertwining themes of survival, longing, and a perilous form of companionship.

The series skillfully employs water imagery as a powerful visual metaphor, brilliantly reflecting Hinako's emotional state. This includes her overwhelming sorrow, the sensation of drowning in despair, and the fluidity of her existence. While these visuals effectively convey her inner turmoil, some critiques propose that a more deliberate, slower revelation of her harrowing past could intensify their emotional resonance and impact.

Shiori herself is a fascinating study in contrasts. Her character expertly balances a predatory nature with surprising moments of tenderness, adding layers of psychological depth and intrigue to the burgeoning relationship between the two protagonists.

Initial Reception and Future Potential

Despite the strong characterizations and thematic depth, the pacing of the inaugural episodes has been described by some as somewhat flat, leading to a perception of lacking the dynamic momentum that could fully immerse viewers. Nevertheless, the series has garnered praise for its contemplative writing and its remarkably empathetic depiction of Hinako's struggle with suicidal ideation and loss.

This nuanced approach, combined with its unique blend of supernatural elements and yuri romance, positions "This Monster Wants to Eat Me" as a distinctive, thought-provoking addition to the anime landscape, even as it finds its footing in these crucial early stages.