Netflix debuts highly anticipated horror-slice of life anime, “The Summer Hikaru Died”

‘The Summer Hikaru Died’ debuts on Netflix, bringing Mokumokuren's acclaimed manga to screens this July.

The Summer Hikaru Died has premiered on Netflix, bringing Mokumokuren’s award-winning manga to a wider audience in an atmospheric new anime adaptation. 

Directed by Ryohei Takeshita and produced by CygamesPictures, the series blends slice-of-life storytelling with a gradual, pervasive sense of dread, set in the quiet, rural landscapes of Japan.

The series has arrived with significant anticipation from fans of the manga, who praised its emotional storytelling and unique visual style. 

Online discussions and fan communities have closely followed the adaptation process, sharing excitement over the casting, music selection, and commitment to preserving the manga’s quiet, unsettling tone. This strong fan interest has positioned The Summer Hikaru Died as one of the most anticipated anime releases of the season on Netflix.

The series centres on two childhood friends, Yoshiki Tsujinaka and Hikaru Indou, whose bond shapes their daily lives in a small, isolated village. This relationship is disrupted when Hikaru disappears into the mountains and returns under unsettling circumstances. 

The narrative explores the emotional and psychological impact of grief and change, offering viewers a reflective approach to horror rather than relying on conventional scares.

The Summer Hikaru Died also incorporates themes of identity and connection, using its supernatural premise to explore complex emotional dynamics without losing focus on its central friendship narrative. 

The series features an opening theme by Vaundy and an ending theme by Tooboe, with voice performances led by Chiaki Kobayashi and Shuichiro Umeda.

Premiering on July 5, The Summer Hikaru Died is now streaming exclusively on Netflix. Episode two will air on July 12.