The anime boom over the past decade has been remarkable to witness. More and more eager viewers are choosing anime as their must-watch programming. In a world where streaming has taken over, there are now an impossible number of options. Considering the many options, it’s challenging to decide what new anime to start. To rise above the rest, a new anime has to be special to reach a massive audience, and that is Kaiju No. 8.

From Production I.G., Kaiju No. 8 dominated the summer and now holds a new massive fanbase awaiting the recently announced second season. How did Kaiju No. 8 get here? What makes it so special? There are layers, but the premise, characters and animation all work in unison to create one of those exceptional anime worth putting on your must-watch list.

The success of an emerging new anime usually starts with the animation. This is where Kaiju No. 8 creates an incredible first impression. Kaiju No. 8 boasts energetic camera moves, bold colors, and detailed character designs. The action sequences are exciting and inventive. The expert use of lighting is also one of the animation’s most vital points. Much of the series takes place at night, with most characters wearing black suits. This allows for innovative lighting and coloring to contrast the black ops ambience. The reflection of the defense forces’ communication devices and weapons creates an eye-catching detail that adds to the world-building. The stakes of every episode are elevated through these stylistic decisions. The intentionality behind every frame is felt throughout the entire season. 

Now, what is the show even about? Kaiju No. 8 centers on a world ravaged by quickly emerging kaiju, giant creatures who attack the highly populated areas of Tokyo at any given moment. Luckily, the city is always prepared for a sudden evacuation and is protected by the most elite military force, the Anti-Kaiju Defense Force. This unit comprises the most powerful soldiers trained to eliminate the kaiju threat. Japan has efficiently managed kaiju threats with this defense force and has become accustomed to the chaotic living environment. However, what happens to the remains of the recently eliminated kaiju? Who cleans up their guts and blood and disposes of their enormous bodies so that the city can continue about their day? That is where our protagonist comes in, Kafka Hibino. Kafka is not a member of the prestigious defense force but a worker in the clean-up crew tasked with removing every piece of kaiju that remains. He tried to join the force but failed to pass the entrance exam on every attempt. When a young new worker expresses his determination to pass the defense force exam, Kafka reignites his passion and vows to join him. Unfortunately for him, a strange kaiju virus chooses Kafka to be the first human kaiju hybrid. This grants him enormous power, but if his secret is revealed, it will mean death by experimentation, considering he’s living in a world that despises these creatures. 

The premise is exciting, comedically dark, and uniquely original, specifically with our lead, who is physically lackluster and a middle-aged, down-on-his-luck worker instead of the usual young, plucky, determined protagonist seen in most Shonen anime. The fact that Kafka doesn’t use his powers to cheat his way onto the defense force but instead uses his years of experience working on kaiju bodies makes his character arc all the more engaging. Too often, anime fall into the trap of highlighting incredible physical prowess as the determining factor to success. Our hero earns his way onto the force with his intellect and experience. Kafka’s biggest strength isn’t his kaiju powers or genius but his heart. Kafka becomes appealing through his sincerity. He doesn’t try to put up a front of being the biggest tough guy in the room because that’s not in his nature. He’s not afraid to show that he actually cares, which quickly gains his team’s respect. In a world measured only by how physically strong you are, it’s miraculous how Kafka can rise above the rest. 

The rest of the characters are another highlight. Reno Ichikawa, the young worker encouraging Kafka to retake the exam, is the show’s anchor. He showcases a compassionate mindset that others may see as a weakness but uses it to enhance his potential. Kikoru Shinomiya, the rising star of the defense force, starts as a hindrance to Kafka, only to become his biggest supporter. The standout, however, is Soshiro Hoshina, the vice-captain of the Third Division, who likes Kafka and encourages his commitment to progress. Hoshina’s hard exterior softens with Kafka’s enthusiasm. He sees the potential in Kafka even though his disadvantages seem overwhelming. The rest of the Third Division also get their time to shine and open an avenue for future compelling arcs. The first season is incredibly well-rounded, with small tidbits of backstory and new information spread across essential moments. The setup for every character’s growth is well maintained and given enough attention for the audience to attach to emerging favorites. 

Kaiju No. 8 excels with its writing, animation style, and pacing. The season is excellently written, with brewing character arcs and plot progression for a larger, expansive story. The show efficiently tees upcoming stories while creating an engaging and exciting premiere season. At times, it may be difficult for new anime to quickly captivate and enthrall audiences due to short runtimes and few episodes. However, Kaiju No. 8 does it effortlessly. It does a fantastic job of fulfilling viewers’ desires while still showing a glimpse of what’s to come. The world-building is phenomenal. There is enough information to establish a convincing world without revealing every detail. The wide variation of characters offers a refreshing line-up for audiences to connect with. The show truly has all the makings for a memorable series. Overall, Kaiju No. 8 delivers an exciting debut season that has already proven to be one of the best new anime of the year. 

You can watch Kaiju No. 8 on Crunchyroll.