The much-anticipated anime series, the Summer Hikaru Died, is set to debut in July 2025. Netflix is gearing up to present the adaptation of Mokumokuren's popular manga, which has captured the hearts of fans around the globe.
At the recent AnimeJapan 2025 event, the official trailer for the Summer Hikaru Died was unveiled, sparking excitement among anime enthusiasts. The trailer not only features a glimpse of the storyline but also the ending theme song titled Anata wa Kaibutsu (You Are My Monster), performed by the rising talent TOOBOE.
The series revolves around two teenagers, Yoshiki and Hikaru, who share a deep bond despite their contrasting personalities. Unfortunately, their lives take a dark turn when Hikaru mysteriously does not return home one day after a hike in the mountains. Concurrently, the narrative reveals that Hikaru has returned, but something has unnervingly replaced him, stirring a wave of mystery and horror. Fans of horror and supernatural narratives are likely to be captivated by the premise.
The character dynamics appear to be poignant, as Yoshiki grapples with the haunting realization that his friend may not be the same person he once knew. Chiaki Kobayashi vocally portrays Yoshiki while Shuichiro Umeda takes on the role of Hikaru. Both actors were present at the AnimeJapan event, alongside newly announced cast members Yumiri Hanamori (as Asako Yamagishi), Wakana Kowaka (as Rie Kurebayashi), and Chikahiro Kobayashi (as Tanaka).
Asako Yamagishi is portrayed as a classmate of Yoshiki's who has a unique sensitivity to inexplicable events, while Rie Kurebayashi is depicted as a concerned neighbor who perceives a frightening presence surrounding the boys. Tanaka stands as an enigmatic figure, always playful yet immersed in investigation of odd occurrences that permeate the village.
The unique theme encapsulates the confusion and bewilderment faced by Yoshiki, especially expressed during pivotal trailer moments where he questions Hikaru about the missing time. A notable interaction occurs when Yoshiki asks Hikaru whether he genuinely does not recall his disappearance. During this interaction, Hikaru's face transforms partially into a grotesque form, heightening suspense as he discloses a peculiar fondness for Yoshiki, revealing layers of horror intertwined with their friendship.
Director Ryohei Takeshita leads the production, with animation crafted by CygamesPictures. The collaboration promises stunning visuals and a gripping depiction of the story that original readers have come to know. The show's staff has committed to translating Mokumokuren's distinctive storytelling into vibrant animation.
As the excitement builds toward the premiere, the digital distribution of the anime on Netflix will present it globally, promising an opportunity for viewers to experience this chilling take on friendship and identity. Streamed on Netflix, the series will offer coverage beyond Japanese borders when it launches as scheduled.
The character Asako Yamagishi has garnered attention, with voice actor Yumiri Hanamori reflecting on her role, stating, “I was greatly shocked that the story begins from the point where it didn’t make it in time. What if 'something' very close to what didn’t make it appears in front of us? What choice would we choose? I will do my best to portray the atmosphere that sticks to your skin.”
Kowaka, voicing Rie Kurebayashi, has expressed eagerness about how the show will visualize the emotional nuances of the narrative, particularly her character’s insights regarding the hauntings surrounding Yoshiki. She is committed to capturing the essence of Rie, who balances kindness with vigilance.
Chikahiro Kobayashi, who lends his voice to Tanaka, captured the spirit with his statement: “When I read the original story, my heart was firmly grasped from the beginning! The scene of 'Summer' that everyone feels nostalgic about is mixed with fear and wonder.” He is excited to bring this complex character to life.
Fans have also been eager to hear the contributions from TOOBOE, who creates the song Anata wa Kaibutsu that serves as the emotional heartbeat of the show. TOOBOE shared his feelings on the song, saying, “This song became a kind of forgiveness that I extended to the characters.” The song captures the essence of the themes of loss and reconnection coursing through the anime.
The Summer Hikaru Died, based on the manga of the same name serialized since August 2021 in Kadokawa Shoten’s Young Ace Up website, has made waves in the horror genre. The anticipation for the anime adaptation comes after significant success for the manga, with a total of six volumes published thus far.
As viewers gear up for its release, the series promises to be a blend of a coming-of-age tale intertwined with supernatural dread, showcasing the unpredictability of reality. It likely will be a seminal work as it tests the boundaries of friendship against the forces of the unknown.
