Zom 100: Unveiling a One-of-a-Kind Protagonist in the World of Horror

Crunchyroll's Summer 2023 anime lineup is well underway, and Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead stands out as one of the best with its completely unique horror protagonist, Akira Tendo. Adding depth to an already unconventional horror tale, Akira breaks away from the typical mold of horror protagonists, making him a true hero in this zombie-infested world.

When it comes to horror in anime, the works of Junji Ito and series like Tokyo Ghoul or Parasyte: The Maxim come to mind. These stories place their main characters in horrifying and gruesome situations, where they react with the expected fear, disgust, or stoic determination of a stereotypical horror protagonist. However, Zom 100 takes a different approach by infusing the horror genre with vibrant colors and a comedic twist, resulting in a protagonist that perfectly complements the narrative. Akira's infectious joy and impulsive nature allow him to face his new reality with a smile on his face and a bucket list in hand.

Zom 100's Akira is the Happiest Horror Protagonist in Anime

Pre-apocalypse, Akira spends his days working late nights at a toxic company, despising every moment of his existence. However, after the world is ravaged by the apocalypse, the vibrant and thrilling world of Zom 100 emerges, giving Akira a newfound sense of joy and freedom. As bloody zombies pursue him, Akira shouts with exhilaration, relieved that he no longer has to endure the monotony of his job. Embracing the apocalypse as the best thing that has ever happened to him, Akira resigns from his job to his zombified boss and bravely expresses his love to a zombie coworker. Every moment he spends being chased by the undead is a surreal experience, a realization of his wildest dreams.

Beyond his encounters with the living dead, Akira's interactions with fellow survivors also leave a lasting impact. His unwavering optimism and positivity confuse and astonish his comrades. When he first meets Shizuka while searching for beer, Akira's elation over an unnecessary commodity in the post-apocalyptic world bewilders the typically stoic woman. This stark contrast between Akira and the typical survivor sets the stage for a captivating dynamic between the two main heroes of Zom 100. Even his former college teammate, Kencho, is taken aback by Akira's demeanor in the midst of the apocalypse. Despite facing the threat of zombies and teetering perilously on the edge of a building, Akira's fearlessness and persuasion convince Kencho to join him in a "leap of faith" to truly live once more.

Akira Faces Danger with a Smile in Zom 100

Akira Tendo, the protagonist of Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead, defies the typical horror character archetype by embracing the present and prioritizing joy over fear of death. Instead of succumbing to the bleakness of the undead apocalypse, Akira remains determined to live life to its fullest and check off as many items on his bucket list as he can. This refreshing perspective challenges the conventional expectations of a horror protagonist. Don't miss the latest episodes of Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead, available for streaming on Crunchyroll every Sunday.