Anime adapted from famous manga Kaii to Otome to Kamikakushi, what is passing Mysterious disappearances official in English, finally launched. The 2019 comic series offers a harmonious combination of humor, light horror, and supernatural elements. Luckily, the anime version delivers the same satisfying mix.
I recently watched the first episode of Mysterious disappearances ABOVE Crunchyroll and walked away in wonder. Although I had heard about the manga, I had never checked it out and was intrigued by the premise. It concerns two main characters named Sumireko and Adashino, who work in a bookstore, as they investigate strange occurrences.
But what I appreciate about the first episode is that it almost feels like a 24-minute standalone experience. The premiere introduces the two main characters, their work at the bookstore, and their connection to each other. This ultimately leads to a strange book that provides the episode’s core mystery.
In the process, it gently explores the inner workings of Sumireko’s mind and her deepest fears. But instead of being extremely serious or completely spooky, this series is great at setting up fun plots. It’s almost classic Goosebumps Drama series but even funnier.
Of course, there is a mystery in this episode and perhaps future mysteries. However, they stand behind the actual characters. This allows for a lighter tone for the series, which Mysterious disappearances anime benefits from. I will admit that it was a little too light at times in the first episode, especially because I felt like it was a few brief but unnecessary fan service moments. However, its humor and characters continued through the premiere.
Given the mysterious way that brought the two main characters together, I will say that I’m curious to see how future episodes play out. All in all, this episode benefits greatly from focusing on Sumireko as a person and her backstory. Perhaps future episodes won’t be able to do that as much. I wonder if that affects the pacing and atmosphere.
Thankfully, there are some clear hints about what the future holds. The promise of what would happen next fascinated me. First, there is the intriguing situation with the remaining main character, Adashino. He looked more like a kid, maybe just in middle school, but he acted very strangely. Not to mention, his yellow spiral eyes can’t just be for show.
I hope that Mysterious disappearances The anime will delve deeper into Adashino’s story in the near future, especially since he seems to know more about the paranormal than he was initially told. For now, though, I’m hopeful and optimistic about the possible episodic nature of the series. If it continues with each episode focusing on a different mysterious object or situation, that fast-paced nature will keep my eyes peeled for the spring 2024 anime season.
Mysterious disappearances is currently available to stream on Crunchyroll.
