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In the realm of anime, there’s a vast ocean of genres and themes to explore. Among these, the supernatural often stands out for its ability to blend the extraordinary with the mundane. “Sankaku Mado no Sotogawa wa Yoru” (The Night Beyond the Tricornered Window), which aired in 2021, is a noteworthy entry in this category. This series, based on the manga of the same name by Tomoko Yamashita, marries mystery, supernatural elements, and a unique form of romance in a way that’s both intriguing and refreshing. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this series stand out, sans the usual fluff.
The Premise
At its core, “Sankaku Mado no Sotogawa wa Yoru” is a story about two men bound by a supernatural connection. Kosuke Mikado is a bookstore clerk with the unwanted ability to see ghosts, a talent that has left him understandably anxious and withdrawn. His life takes a turn when he meets Rihito Hiyakawa, an exorcist whose methods are as unconventional as his personality. Hiyakawa can not only exorcise spirits but also uses Mikado’s ability to his advantage, pulling the reluctant Mikado into his work of solving paranormal mysteries.
Characters and Dynamics
Kosuke Mikado
Mikado is the reluctant hero of our story, a man whose life has been overshadowed by his ability to see what others can’t. His character arc is one of growth, as he learns to confront his fears and embrace his abilities, thanks in no small part to Hiyakawa’s influence.
Rihito Hiyakawa
Hiyakawa is the yin to Mikado’s yang. Confident, skilled, and somewhat enigmatic, he’s a character that draws you in. His past and motivations unfold as the series progresses, adding layers to his character and his relationship with Mikado.
Their Dynamic
The relationship between Mikado and Hiyakawa is the series’ backbone. It’s complex, evolving from mere convenience to something deeper. Their interactions range from comedic to intense, providing a rich vein of character development and emotional depth.
The Supernatural Elements
“Sankaku Mado no Sotogawa wa Yoru” excels in its portrayal of the supernatural. The series presents a variety of ghosts and entities, each with its backstory and reasons for lingering in the mortal world. These stories are not just for show; they serve to explore themes of regret, unresolved issues, and the impact of the past on the present.
Mystery and Intrigue
Each episode unfolds a new mystery, often linked to a supernatural occurrence. The series does an excellent job of balancing the investigation with the overarching narrative, ensuring that each episode contributes to the story’s progression. The mysteries are well-crafted, with enough twists and turns to keep viewers engaged without resorting to convoluted plot devices.
Themes and Messages
Beyond the supernatural and the mysteries, “Sankaku Mado no Sotogawa wa Yoru” delves into deeper themes. It explores the nature of human connections, the idea of acceptance, and the journey towards self-discovery. The series doesn’t shy away from darker themes either, such as trauma and the consequences of one’s actions, giving it a grounded feel despite its supernatural trappings.
Visuals and Sound
The animation style of “Sankaku Mado no Sotogawa wa Yoru” is another point in its favor. It strikes a balance between the detailed and the simplistic, creating a unique aesthetic that complements the story’s tone. The use of color and shadow, especially in depicting the supernatural, is particularly noteworthy. The sound design and music also deserve mention, enhancing the atmosphere and adding an extra layer to the emotional and suspenseful scenes.
Why It Stands Out
In a genre that’s often filled with clichés and repeated tropes, “Sankaku Mado no Sotogawa wa Yoru” manages to carve its niche. It does so by focusing on the human aspect of its supernatural stories, grounding the extraordinary in the ordinary. The series doesn’t just aim to thrill; it seeks to resonate, to explore what it means to be human in a world where the line between the living and the dead is blurred.
Conclusion
“Sankaku Mado no Sotogawa wa Yoru” is a series that deserves more attention than it gets. It’s a compelling blend of mystery, supernatural, and character-driven drama, wrapped in a visually appealing package. The series asks viewers to look beyond the surface, to see the ghosts not just as fears to be overcome but as stories to be understood. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the things that haunt us are not so different from ourselves.
For fans of the supernatural genre looking for something that breaks the mold, or for those who appreciate stories with depth and complexity, “Sankaku Mado no Sotogawa wa Yoru” is a must-watch. It’s a series that proves, once again, that the world of anime is as diverse and nuanced as the real world it often seeks to escape from.