

Netflix to Release Coming-of-Age Horror Anime The Summer Hikaru Died in Summer 2025
Netflix is broadening its horror anime offerings with the eagerly awaited adaptation of The Summer Hikaru Died, scheduled to debut globally in the summer of 2025. Based on the acclaimed manga by Mokumokuren, this coming-of-age horror series merges psychological tension with rural mystique, promising a spine-chilling yet emotionally impactful experience for audiences around the world.
A New Addition to Netflix’s Horror Anime Collection
Following the triumph of Junji Ito Maniac: Japanese Tales of the Macabre in 2023, Netflix maintains its commitment to high-quality horror anime. The Summer Hikaru Died represents a significant advancement in this trajectory, with the streaming platform acquiring exclusive worldwide rights to the series.
This announcement was made during a special presentation at AnimeJapan 2025, led by Nippon TV announcer Rina Sato. The event showcased key cast members and crew, providing fans with an in-depth look at the production and themes of the forthcoming anime.
Story Synopsis: A Serene Village with a Sinister Secret
Set in the peaceful countryside of Kubitachi Village, The Summer Hikaru Died follows Yoshiki Tsujinaka, a regular high school student whose life takes a sinister twist after the death of his close friend, Hikaru Indo, who appears to come back as something other than human. The narrative delves into Yoshiki’s emotional struggle as he confronts the chilling truth that the entity claiming to be Hikaru is an impostor.
The manga, serialized on Young Ace UP and published by Kadokawa, has received accolades for its atmospheric narrative and intricate portrayal of grief, identity, and youth. Mokumokuren’s distinctive mix of slice-of-life elements and supernatural horror has fostered a devoted fanbase, making the anime adaptation one of the most awaited releases of 2025.
Cast and Crew: A Skilled Ensemble Behind the Horror
The anime features a robust creative team and voice cast. Ryohei Takeshita, recognized for his contributions to Jellyfish Can’t Swim in the Night and episodes of Jujutsu Kaisen, will direct the series. Animation production is entrusted to CygamesPictures, which guarantees stunning visuals that capture both the tranquil allure and growing apprehension of the original manga.
Chiaki Kobayashi voices the lead character Yoshiki Tsujinaka, while Shuichiro Umeda portrays the mysterious Hikaru. During the AnimeJapan event, both actors appeared in character costumes and provided insights into their roles. Kobayashi pointed out the symbolism in the main visual, where Hikaru is illuminated by sunlight while Yoshiki resides in shadow — serving as a visual metaphor for the story’s juxtaposition of warmth and horror.
Additional cast members include Yumiri Hanamori as Asako Yamagishi, Wakana Kowaka as Rie Kurebayashi, and Chikahiro Kobayashi as Tanaka — each character connected to the village’s occult mysteries.
Themes: A Fragile Harmony of Horror and Emotion
Characterized by the cast as a “coming-of-age horror,” The Summer Hikaru Died strives to maintain a balance between emotional richness and supernatural tension. Kobayashi reiterated that the series is approachable even for those who typically shy away from horror, owing to its strong character arcs and compelling narrative.
Umeda remarked that the terror in the series arises not from explicit shocks, but from the subtle abnormalities in everyday life — a trait of psychological horror that takes cues from masters like Junji Ito. The cast mentioned that the anime’s atmosphere is “somewhat laid-back,” yet permeated by a “subtle unease” that intensifies as the plot develops.
Music and Atmosphere
The closing theme, titled Anata wa Kaibutsu (“You Are My Monster”), is performed by Tooboe and is anticipated to enhance the show’s eerie yet poignant ambiance. The music, alongside the series’ pastoral backdrop and haunting imagery, will be essential in drawing viewers into the unsettling realm of Kubitachi Village.
What to Anticipate
Although the official release date remains unconfirmed, fans can expect a slow-burn, character-driven horror narrative that delves into themes of identity, grief, and the supernatural. The anime’s trailer suggests a visual style reminiscent of Junji Ito’s creations, featuring intricate character designs and an emphasis on atmospheric tension over jump scares.
The Summer Hikaru Died is poised to be a notable addition to the horror anime landscape, presenting a fresh interpretation of the classic “something’s not right in the village” trope. With its emotional depth, strong production quality, and distinctive storytelling, it is set to attract both horror fans and newcomers alike.
Stay Informed
Fans eager for more information can visit the official website at https://hikanatsu-anime.com/ for updates, trailers, and behind-the-scenes content as the summer 2025 release approaches.
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