Another: A Haunting Anime Review

Another is a psychological horror and mystery anime, based on the novel by Yukito Ayatsuji. Released in 2012, this 12-episode series is notorious for its eerie atmosphere, tense pacing, and unexpected twists. The show centers around a curse that haunts a particular high school class, leading to a string of mysterious and gruesome deaths. Here's what makes Another an unforgettable horror experience.

The anime follows Kouichi Sakakibara, a transfer student who arrives at Yomiyama North Middle School. He quickly finds himself caught up in the mystery surrounding Class 3-3, which has been affected by a terrifying curse for over two decades. The curse seems linked to a series of tragic, often brutal, deaths that occur among students and their relatives. The root of the curse lies in an event that took place years ago, but uncovering the truth is far from simple.

The central mystery revolves around the enigmatic Misaki Mei, a classmate whom the rest of the students and teachers act like she does not exist. As Kouichi tries to understand the strange dynamics of the class, the tension escalates, and more students begin to fall victim to bizarre, seemingly supernatural accidents.

The muted color palette, along with the careful use of sound design, draws viewers into a constant state of unease. Every scene is charged with a sense of dread, whether it is a quiet classroom moment or a blood chilling accident. The horror here is psychological, with a slow build-up that keeps you on edge, waiting for the next catastrophe.

Main Characters

• Kouichi Sakakibara: As the protagonist, Kouichi brings a fresh perspective to the strange happenings of Class 3-3. He is curious, kind hearted, and determined to unravel the mystery, but his actions sometimes lead to disastrous consequences.
• Misaki Mei: The mysterious, soft spoken girl with an eye patch. Misaki’s aloof nature makes her an enigmatic figure throughout the show. Her connection to the curse is one of the major puzzles of the series, and her eerie calm in the face of danger is unsettling.

The anime explores the emotional toll the curse takes on the students. Fear, paranoia, and despair gradually break down their sense of reason as they struggle to find a way to survive. Each character is haunted by the ever-present threat of death, and it is interesting to watch how they cope with the trauma. Some fight, some try to escape, and others give in to despair.

One of the strengths of Another is how it slowly reveals the rules of its curse. Viewers, like Kouichi, are left in the dark for much of the story. The gradual revelation of how the curse works, and the chilling realization that breaking the rules can lead to horrific consequences, keeps the suspense alive. The deaths are often brutal and shocking where seemingly innocuous situations turn deadly in an instant.

While Another is a horror anime, it delves into deeper themes like the weight of guilt, the cycle of death, and human nature under extreme pressure. The curse acts as a metaphor for collective trauma. Something that has been passed down from generation to generation, with each group of students forced to bear the consequences of past actions. The story also explores how people handle fear and the lengths they will go to survive, even if it means sacrificing others.

One of the standout aspects of Another is the way it draws its female characters, particularly Misaki Mei. Her design, with her striking eye patch and delicate, doll-like features, adds to the eerie atmosphere and makes her one of the most memorable characters in the series. The overall character designs are well executed, especially when it comes to expressing subtle emotions that enhance the psychological tension.

The opening song, “Kyoumu Densen” by Ali Project, perfectly sets the tone for the anime. Its haunting melody and intense lyrics complement the show’s dark themes, drawing you into the unsettling world of Class 3-3. It is the kind of opening that sticks with you long after the episode ends.

Another is not your typical horror anime. Its strength lies in its atmosphere and slow-burn mystery rather than jump scares. While the plot may feel convoluted at times, it rewards patient viewers with a complex and layered narrative. If you enjoy psychological horror with a dose of mystery and a dark, twisted atmosphere, Another is a must-watch. Just be prepared for its brutal and unforgettable ending. :)