Anime Debut Announcement: Hyakki Yakou Shou Manga Adaptation
The renowned horror manga "Beyond Twilight," created by the talented Ichiko Ima is receiving a thrilling new adaptation. The official X/Twitter account of Asahi Shimbun Publications, through Nemuki+ magazine, recently unveiled that Ichiko Ima's "Hyakki Yakou Shou" will be adapted into a television anime series. Set to premiere in April, this anime will consist of shorts and will additionally be available for online streaming.
Previously, Aurora Publishing, Inc. had introduced the manga in English as "Beyond Twilight," albeit releasing only one volume before closing its operations in 2010. The manga, deeply rooted in the supernatural, follows Ritsu who, from birth, inherits the ability to perceive spirits and demons from his novelist grandfather. However, a life-altering event leads Ritsu to form a pact with a demon named Blue Storm upon his grandfather's passing.
Ichiko Ima first introduced this captivating manga in 1995 within Nemuki magazine. Following Nemuki's closure in 2012, the series transitioned to Nemuki+. Recently, the 31st compiled volume became available in Japan in April 2024, with the forthcoming 32nd volume poised for release on April 7.
The manga's profound impact on the cultural landscape is undeniable. In 2005, it received accolades in the Japanese Media Arts Festival and was honored with an Excellence Award at the 2006 edition. Furthermore, the manga was esteemed as a finalist for the Grand Prize at the 9th Tezuka Osamu Bunka-sho in 2005, solidifying its status as a beloved work within the industry.
Further testament to its allure, "Beyond Twilight" inspired stage plays in 2003 and 2006. Moreover, a live-action television series based on the manga was brought to life in 2007, captivating audiences with its eerie narrative and complex characters.
The upcoming anime adaptation holds promise to delve even deeper into the intricacies of Ichiko Ima's haunting world. Fans eagerly anticipate how the animated format will breathe new life into the compelling narrative and mesmerizing characters crafted by the illustrious creator.
Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting project as the anime community eagerly awaits the debut of "Hyakki Yakou Shou" in April. The fusion of Ichiko Ima's mesmerizing storytelling with the dynamic nature of animation is sure to create an unforgettable viewing experience for anime enthusiasts worldwide.
Update: This blog post has been enriched with additional insights from Nemuki+ magazine, shedding light on the format of the anime adaptation and the manga's rich history. It also includes a retrospective on the prestigious awards received by the manga and its impactful adaptations over the years.
Sources: Nemuki+'s X/Twitter account, Nemuki+ March issue, Comic Natalie
