The Ultimate Anime Horror Gem on Netflix that will Haunt Demon Slayer Fans

Demon Slayer takes place during the Taisho era and effectively utilizes its historical backdrop to weave a captivating supernatural tale enriched by its stunning aesthetics. For enthusiasts of Demon Slayer who appreciate exceptional art direction and narratives revolving around encounters with demons and monsters, the oft-overlooked treasure known as Mononoke is an absolute must-watch. Both series fully embrace their respective historical settings to deliver gripping stories. While Demon Slayer enthralls viewers with its fast-paced, action-packed storyline that spans numerous episodes, Mononoke captivates in just twelve episodes as a mesmerizing mystery-horror series, making it a worthy companion and counterpart to Demon Slayer.

It is important to note that Mononoke should not be confused with the acclaimed Studio Ghibli classic, Princess Mononoke. In this context, "mononoke" serves as a collective term for supernatural beings or spirits. Originally aired in Japan in 2007, Mononoke never received an official release in North America. However, in early 2023, it was reintroduced through a Blu-ray release, featuring a brand new English dub by Discotek Media, and it is currently available on Netflix. Furthermore, there are plans for a full-length Mononoke film to be released in Japan in 2023. This presents the perfect opportunity to immerse oneself in the extraordinary and captivating world of this masterpiece. Mononoke flawlessly combines horror, mystery, and historical fiction, resulting in a series that stands apart from Demon Slayer while also complementing it through its unique approach to the historical setting.

Mononoke Is a Beautiful Nightmare

Mononoke/Netflix

The tone of Mononoke is established in the very first scene, demonstrating the meticulous art direction and incorporation of traditional Japanese visual art and theater by both Mononoke and Demon Slayer. Mononoke opens with a traditional Japanese sliding door, revealing a rainy night depicted as a moving painting. The peculiarly attired Medicine Seller follows a solitary woman into an inn, where the spirits haunting the establishment gradually reveal themselves, while the Medicine Seller slowly uncovers the inn's dark history. To expel the mononoke, the Medicine Seller must unveil their Shape, Truth, and Reason - their physical form, objectives, and the cause behind their manifestation as malevolent spirits.

Mononoke, as a horror series, seldom relies on overt scares. Instead, it cultivates psychological horror by establishing an enduring sense of simmering tension and authentic dread. The art, though visually captivating, is intentionally stylized and uniquely strange. The constantly moving colors and patterns, jarring camera cuts, faceless crowds, and deliberately uncanny portrayal of the main characters contribute to this surreal atmosphere. Perhaps most chillingly, every mononoke in the series is ultimately composed of negative human emotions, emphasizing humanity as the true embodiment of evil.

Despite its short duration, Mononoke requires a keen observation from its viewers. The stunning animation intentionally creates confusion, leaving us uncertain whether the characters and the audience are perceiving the same reality. Some foreshadowing can only be appreciated in hindsight, yet even after multiple viewings, certain enigmas remain unanswered. The Medicine Seller, in particular, is an intriguing enigma, surpassing mere humanity despite consistently asserting his role as a simple merchant.

Undoubtedly, Mononoke is a masterful blend of artistry and psychological horror. Its availability on Netflix has made it more accessible than ever before. The series distinguishes itself from other mystery shows through its historical backdrop, while also standing out among historical fiction with its eerie supernatural atmosphere. Both similar and distinct, Mononoke serves as the perfect complement to Demon Slayer.

Mononoke is available to stream on Netflix.