Hikaru ga Shinda Natsu

There’s no question in my mind that if not for homophobia, The Summer Hikaru Died would’ve been much more popular and in anime of the year discussions. The ratings show that for people who did go in with an open mind, this was incredible, but the fact the story is an analogy for repressed homosexuality and conforming to societal norms turned a lot of people off. Sadly, we as a society have began to accept yuri stories much more, but there’s still a stigma about a love story with two boys, especially one that acts as a social commentary like TSHD does. It’s a shame ... because if people gave this a fair shake, they’d see it’s also one of the best horror stories in anime history. Anime is a medium where it’s just difficult to make genuinely scary stuff happen and TSHD does it consistently in nearly every episode thanks to the pervasive feeling of unease and dread established by CyGames. Almost every moment of this show oozes with a supernatural eerie sensation that makes the hair on the back of your neck standup. That’s not it though, TSHD features one of the most enthralling and captivating supernatural mystery stories you’ll ever encounter. It grips you from the first episode, gradually drip feeds you more information and lore and leaves you hungry for more at the end of each episode. Not only does this show function as a social commentary, it’s a damn good story on its own as well. The 25 minute runtime on these episodes were just not enough, I needed more and certainly need a second season, ASAP.

Now, I know some people are going to be upset that I’m harping on the LGBT stuff so much out the gate, but frankly I don’t care. Denying that aspect of the series would be like throwing out the core component of the story and underlying driving force behind most developments. Hikaru and Yoshiki were in love, even if they didn’t know it, and how Yoshiki handles the grief and trauma from losing his friend is essential to the story. That’s just the tip of the iceberg though, the series is filled with references and analogies for sexual identity and repression, coming out the closet, sex, consent and much more. Some things are more subtle than others, but I like how it’s all done with the backdrop of this conservative out of touch boomer run village in the Japanese countryside. Like everywhere in the world, in Japan there’s a lot of generational divide and conflict with older people struggling to accept the changing times and young people being, well, young people. TSHD shows us Yoshiki and his family struggling to be accepted by the village, constantly being talked about behind their backs and made to feel like outsiders in their own home all because they don’t conform to the ideal standards the older villagers have set forth. While the show doesn’t explicitly state everything, you can tell a lot of this has to do with Yoshiki’s implied sexuality, as well as his father’s and the fact his sister is homeschooled. I found this to be hard to watch at times because I couldn’t imagine living in such a small village and not being allowed to be myself for fear of reproach by some out of touch boomer. Yet it happens, far too often people have to hide who they are to be accepted and I think at its core, this story is about people embracing who they really are. The author just presents it through the lens of a supernatural god coming down from the mountain(homosexuality) and disrupting the village(young people being openly gay) story.

Oh and have I mentioned the sexually and romantically charged moments between Hikaru and Yoshiki in this? Just google the chest fisting scene for examples. Their relationship is the engine that drives everything in this story. It walks that fine line giving us both an amazing romantic ship, as well as a great friendship. The way they support each other in times of need and how Yoshiki is willing to throw everything away to help Hikaru fit into the village is awesome, but they also have this bittersweet dynamic as both of them come to terms with how their relationship has changed due to traumatic events. it’s one of those relationships that makes you look back and regret the things you left unsaid, but also motivates you to move forward and grow as a person. There’s not too much more I can say without spoiling major details which is why I’ll keep things brief on that front. But just know they are one of the best ships of the year and the only reason you won’t see them listed is because they’re two guys and while we’ve got to a point recently where yuri is deemed acceptable, there’s a huge stigma about two guys being romantically involved still, in the western anime community at least.

“OK, we get it, bro. The show’s gay as hell, is it actually good though?” Yes, yes it is. The LGBT themes are an added bonus, but TSHD is actually a phenomenal supernatural mystery filled with twists and turns, no shortage of brutal and terrifying moments that’s enjoyably for Fujoshi’s and general anime fans alike. Learning the truth about Hikaru and his family, uncovering the village’s true origins, the secrets behind what’s happening to the place and dealing with vengeful spirits all while having to avoid the supernatural bounty hunter(s) sent to town to investigate make every episode a nonstop thriller. It felt like every week I’d come into this show with 5 questions, they’d get answered and then I’d somehow leave out with even more questions. It’s just a really well thought out and planned story by the author that hooks you. It’s all taken to the next level thanks to Cygames incredible atmospheric storytelling. I feel like they’ve really established themselves as the best at creating atmosphere in the medium. Apocalypse hotel last season had this unique melancholic vibe that was omnipresent throughout the season and TSHD has this impending sense of doom and dread that follows you. Even when the boys are chilling, it just always feels like something horrible is right around the corner. It ensures you’re never able to relax and thus are always on guard. That makes things way scarier than just relying on jump scares. The best horror films/shows are able to constantly have you feeling scared. Now don’t get me wrong, this show does have some jump scares, arguably the best I’ve ever seen in an anime that actually made me jump/flinch btw, but the scariest part is the atmosphere no doubt. This show’s creepy as hell and I love it.

Production wise the entire thing is solid as hell. Cygames cooked with the atmosphere, but the voice acting and general direction are incredible as well. It’s extremely well animated and the art style is gorgeous. It reminds me a lot of the muted look CSM went for, which CSM fans hated, but I think it looks great here. It reflects the eerie atmosphere and depressive vibe of the village as a whole. There’s a few episodes here that are contenders for best directed of the year!

No doubt in my mind TSHD is a top 10 show this year. It’s one of the best horror anime of all time and one of the most well done social commentary in the medium. Yes, it very proudly embraces LGBT themes, but that’s not all it is. It’s a damn good anime in its own right and a must watch for anyone who likes supernatural mystery and Japanese horror. I’m glad I got to watch this as it aired and discuss it with other fans! I’ll miss my boys.


TSHD gets 9 out of 10

Now that episode 3 is out I can say with confidence that the production team knows what they're doing.

Stunning audio and visuals, along with such a deep and captivating story that explores the complex nature of grief and acceptance. The animation stays true to the original source material, while adding unique direction reflective of the director's style.

As a horror anime, The Summer Hikaru Died offers an incredibly refreshing style that is both unsettling and alluring, reminiscent of classic anime horror yet produced exceptionally well through a modern lens. The combined use of 2d and 3d animation alongside the eerie sound design create an ... intense atmosphere like no other.

I highly recommend this anime to anyone with an appreciation for art and horror, along with those prepared to study the complicated and painfully realistic inner turmoil between the characters in this series.

STAR CHILD OF SUMMER 2025 and he is gay 🏳️‍🌈 🏳️‍🌈 🏳️‍🌈

no one—or maybe just a handful of people—were even anticipating this anime but no one knew it would take the whole anime fandom, flip it upside down, and choke it out with feelings.

the core of this story is so deep rooted in grief, "what if grief was cosmic horror and you couldn’t unfollow it?"
"what if your comfort person is not the same person anymore but you cannot give up the comfort they provide?"
what if this, what if that, there are so many what ifs and we are just at the beginning to ... see it all unfold, unwind, unravel.

set in a small town during summer has to be one of the best genres ever ("BUT SONI IT IS NOT A GENRE", SYBAU !!! IDGAF- IT'S AMAZING, WE LOVE TO SEE SUCH SETTING) - A STORY ABOUT TWO "FRIENDS" and their town and ALL the secrets it is hiding.
the eeriness is so prominent, it crawls on your neck and you feel it down your toes. it is melancholic yet poignant and utterly deliciously beautiful. it is so hard to say what comes ahead but i can say surely WE ARE ALL SEATED.

bonus : IT IS SUPER GAY (do not interact homophobes)

How would you feel if you discovered that your best friend had died and been replaced by something you can’t comprehend? Would you seek out what’s actually happening, or just shrug it off and pretend nothing changed? It’s not like this creature will hurt you, and it seems to be doing its best to “be” your friend.

From the very first episode, you’ll be bombarded with a lot of stuff—and I mean a LOT of it. So many things enough to make you question everything, and most of the time it won’t be easy to digest. The creator refuses to spoon‑feed you answers and revelations in ... each episode, confusing enough to force my third‑world‑country brain to work overtime deciphering it, yet just enough to keep me from dozing off and dropping the show.

The eeriness and uncomfortable tension ooze from every scene. The sound design is brilliantly creepy: even mundane noises like cicadas, train sirens, or distant chatter feel heavy and grating to your ears. It wants to make sure you feel unsettled by everything—so much so that when a happy song like “Aitakata” by AKB48 plays, it doesn’t brighten the mood; it makes it even more disturbing.

As for the animation, it’s Cygames—so you know they went all out. They’re using that horse‑girl gacha money to its fullest. They never quite exceed my sky‑high expectations (since my expectations for them are always high), but they never let me down, either. Their work and direction on this adaptation convinced me they can do justice to at least one of Inio Asano’s manga. It’s just that good.

Overall, I highly recommend it if you’re into bleak, suffocating mysteries.


Oh, and extra note: this anime is gay as fuck. It really is gay as fuck, so there’s your heads‑up. I don’t know why MAL doesn’t at least add a “Boy’s Love” tag, since the relationship between the two MCs is one of the most important things in the series. It’s not just bait for meat‑fencing fanbases to oogle over. It’s not exactly on a pure “yaoi” level, but there are definitely scenes that’ll make anyone not used to Boy’s Love do a funny face. Personally, it’s easy to shrug off, but certainly not everyone could—so do what you wanna do about that info.

~I should note that I haven’t read the manga, and this review is based only on the first five episodes of the anime. Because of that, some of my thoughts may contain spoilers. Also I’ll probably update this review as I delve further into the series~

In a sea of increasingly formulaic manga and anime, The Summer Hikaru Died (Hikaru ga Shinda Natsu) emerges as a deeply refreshing and unforgettable experience. It’s not just worthwhile—it’s delicious. Every scene feels meticulously crafted, dripping with atmosphere and layered emotion. This is storytelling that lingers on your skin like humidity in midsummer, both intoxicating and suffocating. Yet despite the ... dread, you want to stay. It doesn’t just tell you a story—it holds you in it, gently and relentlessly.

What makes it all the more refreshing is that this isn’t just another “BL story.” The mangaka themselves has clarified that this is a queer story—not boxed in by the expectations or tropes of Boys’ Love. And honestly, it doesn’t need to be. This narrative is more than that. It refuses easy categorization, instead weaving horror, tenderness, grief, and identity into something unsettlingly human.

From the outset, this series doesn’t scream for your focus—it draws you in, gradually and unnervingly, like something lurking just beyond the tall grass. What starts as a tale of grief between two boys in a quiet countryside town slowly unfurls into something deeply unsettling and unshakably intimate.

The emotional center belongs to Yoshiki, a boy trapped between longing and dread. He has already lost his best friend—and his silent secret crush—in death, leaving him no space to resolve his feelings. But now, he must live alongside a “Hikaru” who looks the same, speaks the same, but is alien in ways even “Hikaru” does not understand. This forces Yoshiki into impossible roles: caretaker, reluctant teacher, guardian, and grieving lover. He is both terrified of and tethered to this new Hikaru, compelled to keep him human while mourning the boy who can never return. The emotional complexity is what gives the series its edge. Yoshiki’s turmoil isn’t only about losing his best friend—he’s also losing his unspoken crush, a boy he could never fully confess to or resolve his feelings for, because Hikaru is already gone. What he’s left with is a terrible confusion that mirrors the audience’s own: an imitation of Hikaru who wears his face and speaks in his voice, yet is alien, potentially dangerous, and perhaps even unaware of his own threat. But the weight of that contradiction—that Yoshiki must nurture the very thing that symbolizes his loss—creates a psychological unease as compelling as any supernatural horror. This scenario creates an unbearably poignant tension—because every interaction with this "Hikaru" is tinged with the grief of a connection he can never reclaim. It's tragedy—loss compounded by the impossibility of reconciliation.

Adding another layer, there’s a thoughtful intimacy suggested through hints that “Hikaru” might be drawn not only to Yoshiki’s physical familiarity but to the vibrance of his spirit—his “bright life force.” This destabilizes the dynamic further: it’s not just Yoshiki nurturing the undead; it's Hikaru seeking something ineffable, something Yoshiki embodies not merely as a person, but as a presence alive in grief and luminous in longing.

Music:-

The music of 'The Summer Hikaru Died' lends crucial emotional commentary to the visuals, enriching the metatextual mood. The lyrics don’t simply accompany the story; they echo its contradictions—the push-and-pull between warmth and coldness, life and death, desire and fear. What absolutely blows me away is how the opening and ending songs don’t just decorate the anime—they are the anime. They are its voice, its pulse, its echo. It feels like the story bleeds right into the music.

The opening theme “Saikai” could not be more thematically entwined with The Summer Hikaru Died. Its lyrics read like a direct articulation of Yoshiki’s inner turmoil, his grief, and his yearning for a Hikaru he can never truly meet again.

'one more time, もう少しで起こすよmagic' 'one more time I'm about to make the magic happen': This plea echoes Yoshiki’s desperate and longing wish for Hikaru’s return. The reappearance of “Hikaru”—a simulacrum, not the real boy—feels like a cruel realization of that wish. It’s as if Yoshiki’s grief has “awakened the magic,” but the result is uncanny rather than comforting.

'どうにかしてでも, 一つ願い、聞いてくれ, どうこうよりも, 一つ想い、悟ってくれ' 'Please grant me one wish, no matter what. More than anything else, please understand my feelings': Here, the song mirrors Yoshiki’s inability to articulate or resolve his emotions. His desire for Hikaru isn’t logical, isn’t reasonable—it’s raw feeling. The new Hikaru embodies that contradiction: a “wish” granted, but twisted into something Yoshiki cannot fully embrace.

'もしもここから, また出会えるのなら, この先は, 一瞬も一寸の隅も' 'If we meet again, from here, I will remember, every moment and every detail from now on': This refrain captures the bittersweet heart of the series. Yoshiki’s memories of the real Hikaru become the only space where they can “meet again.” Even as he lives beside the new Hikaru, it is memory—dream, summer, eyelids closed—that preserves their bond. The anime visualizes this beautifully through soft countryside light and lingering shots of silence, which feel like memories stretching across time.

'もし, 黄泉の果て繋ぐ呪文と航路の, 在処など僕が知らなかったら, 君はそれでも、胸の奥僕の何かの, 在処をそれでも、探すだろうか' '“If I didn’t know the spell or the path that links to the land of the dead, would you still search for the place deep in my heart where something of me remains?': This is my favorite stanza because it cuts right into the series’ supernatural core. The “spell” and “path” evoke the impossibility of crossing from death back into life, yet in the anime, that impossibility has been broken—Hikaru is back, but not as himself. His survival feels less like resurrection and more like a haunting. What makes this line powerful is the uncertainty it raises: is Hikaru drawn to Yoshiki because of memory, because of love, or simply because of Yoshiki’s radiant soul, his life force? The lyric blurs the boundary between genuine connection and monstrous instinct, asking whether their bond is eternal or just a distorted shadow of what once was.

'また夏で話そう' 'Let's talk again in the summer': The refrain ties directly into the title The Summer Hikaru Died. It is both an invitation and a curse: summer as the season of reunion, but also of loss, memory, and endings. The cyclical promise—meeting again, talking again—is tragic because it cannot be fully realized. Yoshiki can speak to Hikaru, but not his Hikaru. Every summer, every “again,” will be marked by this absence.


If the opening speaks to yearning, the ending song 'You Are My Monster' serves as its tragic counterpoint—grief, acceptance, and resignation; stripping away the illusion. The ending admits the unbearable truth: Hikaru is gone, and what remains is something uncanny.


'眩しい日差しがまた, この身を焼きつくしたから, 幻みたいな貴方の嘗ての笑顔が見たくて, 私はずっと 立ち尽くした' 'Because the dazzling sunlight once again burned this body, I longed to see the smile you once had, like a phantom, and I stood there frozen': This lyric mirrors Yoshiki’s suffocating summers, filled with a heat that amplifies memory and pain. The “phantom smile” is Hikaru’s, now gone, leaving Yoshiki clinging to shadows of warmth that can’t return. Summer, the season of both life and death in this story, becomes both oppressive and nostalgic—a backdrop that scorches as much as it soothes.


'幼い頃の些細な幸せも, 二人だけの秘密も, 貴方が消えた その瞬間に, あやふやになってしまった' 'The little joys of childhood, the secrets we shared, all became vague the moment you disappeared' : This section captures the dissolution of Yoshiki’s past. Hikaru’s death doesn’t just take away the boy—it destabilizes their shared history. Memories blur, certainty collapses, and what remains is fragile, unreliable, like half-remembered dreams. The “vagueness” parallels how the new Hikaru feels familiar yet distorted, eroding Yoshiki’s ability to distinguish comfort from horror.


'サヨナラ 貴方じゃなくたっていいから, その手の温度さえ変わらないで, サヨナラ 私の心のグロさも, 物足りないくらいに 夏が暑くて' ' “Goodbye. It doesn't matter if it's not you, as long as the warmth of your hands remains the same. Goodbye, to the ugliness in my heart, the feeling of inadequacy, the heat of the summer...': Perhaps the most devastating line. Yoshiki knows that this “Hikaru” is not his Hikaru. Yet he clings to the comfort of touch, of presence, of a fragment of warmth—even if it belongs to a stranger or a monster. This lyric echoes the series’ tragic paradox: Yoshiki is trapped between recognition and denial, clinging to what’s left even though it isn’t truly what he longs for. Ugliness becomes a metaphor for Yoshiki’s conflicted feelings—his love, his grief, his dread. Even acknowledging the monstrousness of this reunion, the unbearable heat of summer overwhelms it. The season itself is complicit in amplifying memory, longing, and tragedy, refusing Yoshiki the cool relief of forgetting.


'もしも心の中に 怪物が潜んでいて, それが貴方自身になってしまっても, ただ ただ この夏が 何事もなく 過ぎればいいのに' 'Even if there is a monster lurking in your heart, and even if it becomes a part of you, I just hope that this summer will pass without incident': This final stanza resonates chillingly with the central premise. Yoshiki recognizes that what remains of Hikaru is monstrous, and that Yoshiki himself might one day be consumed by the emotional monstrosity within his own heart—his inability to let go. His only wish is for quiet—for survival through this unbearable summer. Yet this wish, too, is tragic, because the narrative implies no easy passing, no resolution, only the cycle of oppressive summers and lingering grief.

The ending contrasts the opening’s hopeful plea of “Let’s talk again in summer” with a more devastating resignation: “I just hope this summer passes quietly.” Together, the two songs form a dialogue—the opening embodying desire for reunion, the ending acknowledging the impossibility and cost of that desire. Thematically, this mirrors Yoshiki’s journey. His love for Hikaru, his grief, and his desperate clinging to the uncanny “replacement” form a cycle: longing → reunion → recognition of monstrosity → reluctant acceptance. The songs bookend this cycle, framing the anime as both beautifully complex and profoundly tragic.


What makes The Summer Hikaru Died so engaging is its masterful tone control. The mood is thick, constant, and immersive. There's no need for bombastic action or exaggerated horror tropes. Instead, the horror creeps up on you, as much emotional as it is supernatural. The quiet countryside setting amplifies the unease: the rustling wind in the fields, the quiet tension in shared glances, the unspoken truths that fill the silences—these are the tools of its storytelling, and they’re used with razor precision. And that’s the brilliance of this series. It confuses not only the characters but you as well, tangling desire, grief, and fear into something that can’t be untangled cleanly. The mood permeates every scene like a low hum: tender, terrifying, and strangely comforting all at once. This is not a story about what it means to love, or even what it means to lose—it’s about what lingers in the space between. A story that leaves you haunted, aching, and unable to look away.

Though what really sets this series apart is its emotional core. Beneath the unease and mystery is a tender, aching story about love, identity, and letting go. It’s rare for horror to feel this human. Yoshiki’s inner turmoil—his desire to protect this version of Hikaru even as he fears what it might be—strikes a powerful emotional chord. The horror is not in jump scares or monsters, but in the beautiful, terrible ambiguity, and suffocating intimacy of being trapped with something both beloved and unknowable. It’s not just worthwhile—it’s a rare gem that earns your attention with every scene, every pause, and every eerie silence that permeates its dusky, melancholic world. Honestly, I can’t recommend this anime enough—if you haven’t watched it yet, do yourself a favor and dive in.

As someone who has followed this story since chapter 10 of the manga was published, I can safely say that this is one of the best stories that I’ve consumed.

The characters, (especially Yoshiki,) are so compelling, how the anime sets the scene is masterful. The music is amazing. They took is already perfect manga and enhanced it x100.

PLEASE watch this anime. Don’t put it off, it’s 20 minutes of your time per week. It’s accessible (thx Netflix?) to watch, it comes with the subs, and the surface level story is so easy to understand.

Also: I am someone who hates reading or watching horror! ... You may not find this story scary, but you will find it tragic and unsettling. (It’s worth it though!) :D

Summer Hikaru Dies – my rollercoaster of feelings 🌞💀

Episodes 1–3 had me thinking this was a solid 10/10 – the start is so haunting and beautiful that I was completely hooked. But as I kept watching… my score slowly slipped down to around 7/8.

It’s not bad at all – there are genuinely moving moments that almost make you cry and remind you why you started watching. But then there are stretches that feel a bit draggy and slow. (I kind of expected that after reading reviews of the manga – people did warn it can feel a bit meandering.)

Some scenes really hit; others feel like ... they just… drift. It’s this mix of “wow that’s gorgeous and emotional” and “hmm okay can we move on now?”

Overall, I’d say about a 7.5/10

As someone who read the manga and absolutely loved it, I was genuinely terrified for the anime adaptation. Let’s be honest—most adaptations of psychological or horror manga tend to miss the emotional depth or butcher the pacing entirely. So when The Summer Hikaru Died was announced, I was excited... but very cautious.

Now, with Episode 4 on the horizon, I can confidently say: they know exactly what they’re doing. The direction, the subtle tension, the lingering shots—it all feels so right. I’m so incredibly in love with the art style (the lighting?? the shadows?? chef’s kiss), the voice acting (every line hits with the perfect tone), ... and just the whole vibe. It’s eerie and intimate in the same breath.

This isn’t just a good adaptation. It’s becoming one of my favorite anime of all time. It’s that good. Thank you to the team for treating this story with the care it deserves. I’m all in. 🖤

Let's be real, most of the people hating on this just can't handle the gay.

I've read some of the manga but decided to put it on hold hoping the animation would elevate audiences' (mine) experience of this work. I wasn't very happy with the first episode - it just hit slightly off the mark for me. I'd even say it was a bit boring but I stayed curious and hopeful which paid off.

Now after seeing third episode I can say this is something worth a watch even if only for how the directors handle atmosphere and characters' emotions. It might not become a show to ... infinitely rewatch for enjoyment but the one time memorable experience should prove worth it. Can't wait to see what horrors this story leads to.

As others said the production of this is incredibly high. We usually don't see any works including main queer characters of this quality. Big yay for me. I give this a very optimistic 10/10 for now.

One of the best animes of the season for me (besides dan da dan) probably the best horror anime I've seen, its what I expected Uzumaki to be

Animation and OST is phenomenal, voice acting 10/10. The way it captures the creepy atmosphere 😩🤌✨️

The cicadas remind me of og Higurashi (iykyk), and the sprinkles of GAY it's like a paranormal horror with bits of gay romance in it with a focus on the supernatural mystery horror aspects.

If you're tired of the same isekai anime every season and want to watch something truly original, give this a watch!!!

Giving it a 9/10 for now, hopefully it ... keeps this quality for the entire season

Oh and if you're not willing to give this a chance cuz of the lgbt themes, sucks to be you homophobe 🤪🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈

It’s really upsetting to see this anime being reduced to hateful thoughts or dismissed as just fanservice. It’s so much more than that. The mix of psychological horror and the deep connection between the two main characters creates something honest and emotionally strong. Their relationship isn’t forced it’s at the heart of the story, and you can feel it in every scene, from the animation to the voice acting.

Not liking queer themes isn’t the same as giving real criticism. Often, it’s just prejudice in disguise. If someone reacts with disgust to a close emotional bond between two people, maybe the problem isn’t with the anime ... it’s with their perspective.

I really appreciate the creators for telling such a brave and meaningful story. The visuals and performances bring everything together beautifully. This isn’t a step backwards it’s a sign that stories are growing, changing, and becoming more powerful.

It's sad that some people dismiss Summer When Hikaru Died just because it features an LGBT theme.Meanwhile, this element is very subtle and incidental, it doesn't dominate the plot, it doesn't shout, it doesn't impose itself.This anime (and manga) is first and foremost about loss.About how hard it is to come to terms with the passing of someone close.About grief that doesn't let you breathe. About what is left when the person we loved... returns, but no longer the same.It is worth looking deeper than just through the prism of one character trait. Because then you can miss a story that is not about “orientation” ... at all, but about the human heart torn between memory and reality.

ahhh in general I love this anime I will wait already these 2/3 months when all the episodes come out because it's a miracle:)
and for those who are homophobic that if there is a lgbt relationship then nah pass check yourself the story of Alan Turing the real hero of World War II I guarantee you maybe not 100% but you will become less homophobic:)

It’s still a bit early to give a full opinion since only five episodes are out, but I wanted to say how much I appreciate this show so far. Each episode has been really good, and I feel like it keeps getting better. I’m honestly excited to see where it goes.

The show has a great mysterious vibe that pulls you in from the start. The story flows well and mixes quiet sadness with some suspense in a natural way. The characters feel real and their emotions and behavior seem believable, which makes the story easier to connect with.

I also want to praise how the show ... handles emotions. The sadness and grief that come up early on are shown in a gentle way not too much, but enough to add depth. This makes the mysterious and slightly creepy feeling of the show even stronger and more interesting.

From a psychological point of view, the way the characters act and react feels natural and thoughtful. Their feelings about fear, loss, and uncertainty don’t feel over the top. It’s clear the show pays attention to these small details, which makes the story feel more real.

Overall, Summer Hikaru Died is a nice mix of mystery, emotions, and realistic characters. It’s a well made show that’s already made a good impression on me, and I’m looking forward to what happens next.

"Horror to represent internalized homophobia"
It is a hauntingly beautiful blend of horror and emotional depth. The story explores grief, identity, and love in a small-town setting where something isn't quite right.It's a unique show that balances supernatural dread with heartbreaking intimacy. The pacing is perfect-quiet but tense-and each episode leaves you unsettled yet emotionally invested. The way it portrays human emotion, memory, and denial is raw and unforgettable.
I liked the use of metaphors too , if you are enough smart and takes interest in psychology /philosphy then , you can catch hidden details easily otherwise it's hard to get in psychological tropes .
This is the ... kind of series that lingers with you long after you finish a episode , making you reflect on connection, identity, and what it truly means to know someone. For anyone who appreciates thoughtful storytelling with an emotional edge, it's an absolute must-watch.
Don't let negative comments affect you e.g anti village tropes , bl elements etc .

You can watch this as a coming-of-age Horror story with Queer characters, or, as a coming-of-age Queer Horror story. It follows a boy grieving over his friend (his romantic feelings (a crush) function as a backdrop to his grief) and his decision to accept an entity who he relates to as "other" (this is where the 'queer' elements come from; it is NOT BL, it is grappling with the sense of suffocating in a small town and not understanding why you are not as satisfied as everyone else seems to be), and there is great care in showing the consequences of each characters' actions and ... promises.

The Horror exists both directly (it's japanese horror so there's unsettling things and 'inhuman things') and indirectly (the experience of not accepting yourself and your own selfishness). You may not enjoy this series if you are looking only for simple jumpscares and shounen elements, it's subtler than other 'comfy' series. You can enjoy this series if you are looking for a coming-of-age experience of a smalltown guy and a creature learning what humans consider to be alive vs. living. Lot of subtext and overt text. I enjoyed it.

There are also a lot of interviews with the studio behind the scenes of creating the anime and their decisions on keeping faithful to the manga.

This is my first time ever writing a review on MAL, and I just had to because this anime was something else, it was a masterpiece from beginning to the end. The combined quality of the animation with the depth represented in this story was what made this anime so outstanding to me.

The animation: 10/10

I loved the stylistic choices, the colour contrasts that gives a visual representation of the horror the characters experience. The interpolation with real word scenes work so well in giving both depth and eeriness to the story. Nothing feels out of place, the animators deserve so much credit for both ... the fluidity and for their choices that worked so well with the story.

The story: 10/10

The story alone deserves a whole essay. This is the midsommar type of situation where horror is used in excellence to explore a broader social theme. Tension is everywhere, the characters sweating in anxiety for both their internal turmoil and the horrors they’re surrounded by it’s such an interesting way to represent the understanding of itself, your own identity, during your formative years especially when this means getting at odds with what is socially acceptable. And to make it better, the metaphors don’t exist just for the sake of it because the story is indeed scary. This is good horror done at its best.

Characters: 10/10

All characters have depth, even secondary ones. Their evolution and emotions feel realistic and relatable, quite different from your usual anime dynamic.

Music: 10/10

Directly to the point, both opening and ending are great and catchy, specially the opening, Vaundy never disappoints.

In short, this was peak. Really looking forward for a second season.

This was such a phenomenal adaption. Cygames proves once again that they don't play. I couldn't be happier with this series as a manga reader and they did it so much justice.

The animation on this alone is absolutely gorgeous. The colors, the fluidity of everything, absolutely amazing production overall. And the mix with hyper realistic elements within some episodes was such a brilliant touch on their end.

Obviously plot is banging. That's what makes this series so good. The horror element on this is amazing and how they create tension is well thought out and executed great. As well as how everything connects together ... as it gets further into the plot is brilliant. Absolutely no complaints whatsoever.

Overall, i think this summer season may be the one season where I have 2 anime of the seasons cause i can't choose lol. i had been waiting for so long to see this animated and I feel so proud with this adaptation.

🩷 i love this series 🩷

Yes, it’s gay. No, it’s not yaoi (yet?).

The plot follows a kid whose best friend dies and is replaced by a monster that replicates him. This then leads to a slow-burn horror/psychological drama that’s heavy on the emotional aspect of the situation and atmospheric story telling.

The psychological aspect is one of its strengths in my opinion. The show emphasizes on the emotional weight of grief, dealing with loss, overcoming trauma, and tackling self-identity.

The eerie environment, unsettling art, and complementary music work together very well. The pacing is slow and so far is working well to build the suspense. Hopefully the buildup will be rewarded.

It's ... pretty dissapointing that due to the characters' relationships the show is being dropped into a bucket where it isn't getting the love it deserves. I'm a firm believer anyone feeling threatened by the queer themes in this show has another internal fight they need to be dealing with instead. 😭

If you’re into atmospheric, emotionally led, psychological heavy storytelling with a hint of horror, this is worth your time (atleast for now when I'm 5 episodes in).

*TL;DR available.

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(CAUTION: Lots of I and Me statements below. I believe personal opinion is an extremely important topic to touch on during reviews, but nonetheless, you have been warned.)

Hypothetically, this show couldn't have been better. It's a mystery/psychological horror with some good ol' homoeroticism sprinkled in for flavor, because why not? That sounds absolutely sick. You've maybe read the manga, and enjoyed it enough to be interested in an anime adaptation (personally, I had to force myself to enjoy it because everyone around me did, but fill this scenario in for YOU). You watch the trailer. The art style is on par with the manga, ... and the animation seems decent. You add it to your plan-to-watch. When it airs, you watch it.

Though the plot is decent, I still couldn't find myself enjoying it. What about this show went so wrong for me?

1. Both the mystery and the horror aspects are very, very watered down. There are barely any actual horror segments in the show, and none of them are scary. Horror animes usually aren't scary, but this one doesn't even make you cringe out of disgust or anxiety. The show only starts dabbling in the mystery genre a bit more than halfway through the first season, and the mystery itself isn't given any time to develop. The season ends with no proper cliffhanger because the amount of information given wasn't enough to put anyone on the edge of their seats. It doesn't succeed as either a horror or a mystery.

2. The psychological aspect is also, like the horror and the mystery aspects, extremely weak. I genuinely felt nothing during this whole show. The ending of the first season is quite dramatic, and I feel like neither Yoshiki's nor Hikaru's reactions are true to the types of characters they were portrayed as. Even if they did make sense, it wasn't all that sad...

3. The homoeroticism is just here to be here, which would be alright if it didn't feel so out of place. For the love of whichever god is up there listening to my prayer, please send down a divine messenger with the sole purpose of letting Mokumokuren know that absolutely nobody acts like this with their best friend, dead or not.

Despite all of this, my negative feelings for this show are still mixed with quite a few positive ones. Which ones, per say?

1. I really like the switch-up from the usual cityscape setting found in most animes to the rural Japanese countryside. It's a breath of fresh air, and I think it elevates the supernatural aspect of this show a lot more. There's something more scary about a secretive family ritual happening in a small town, where everybody knows everything but has yet to truly learn about this thing. It just feels more natural with this setting than with a huge city.

2. The art style is absolutely lovely. For manga readers, this was probably a given, but the addition of colors truly brings out the art of the show. I personally like how warm-toned everything in this anime is, despite the topics it deals with.

My point is: I hope to someday find a show with this artstyle, this setting, and a completely different genre. I feel like this could make a very good slice-of-life, as there are already some fun slice-of-life snippets scattered throughout the episodes.

(TL;DR: The genres that this show was actually supposed to be are all barely there. It fails to deliver effectively as both a horror and a mystery, but I really, REALLY like the art for this one!)

Honestly this was the best series this summer season, while I was planning to watch I was really cautious after what happen with Uzumaki but thought about giving it a chance and I am glad I did. never thought it would hook me as much as it did. The storyline, the characterization, the setting, the music are all spot on. Hikaru´s and Yoshiki´s are two characters that are so fascinating as how they are portrait and how they evolved. Seeing Yoshiki´s breakdowns about Hikaru and morality is something that can be related to any person who is having issues with his sexuality and don´t ... know what to do about their feelings. Seeing the journey of discovery and part acceptance about who he is, it's an experience. I could feel Yoshiki´s and Hikaru´s fear, love, acceptance like if I was feeling it too.

Love all supporting characters they are all very likeable and all of them have interactions with the main characters. Asako is my favorite without a doubt, for sure but will not spoil, also Tanaka is really interesting, want to learn more about him in the second season. The soundtrack was really good; every track was play in the correct scenes and make the anime journey emotional. The cinematography was spectacular. There were some scenes that look so real, and I could feel myself in Japan at those moments. It was devine.

If you want amazing characters, supernatural genre, and an emotional journey about self-discovery and acceptance this is the show for you, just to mention that like a normal journey they are happy, emotional and sad situations, sometimes you need to travel a rocky road to find happiness. Many people will have some issues about this having queer situations but please try to watch it with an open mind and give it a chance because I assure you it's going to be a really good anime.