A New Supernatural Human Drama: An Interview with This Monster Wants to Eat Me Director Yusuke Suzuki

Life at Hinako Yaotose is not easy. After surviving an accident that killed her family, she spent her school days in a quiet seaside town in the clouds of survivors’ guilt. At that time, she faced a terrible opportunity: a monster who wanted to eat her. This is how Hinako’s relationship with Mermaid Shiori started, but maybe Shiori might teach Hinako about the value of life before eating her.

We’ll talk to it This monster wants to eat me director Suzuki Yusuke About adaptation SinekavaThe comics to the screen, forming the perfect voice actor for the protagonist trio and how he sets the foundation for this supernatural human drama.

You are interested in this story This monster wants to eat me As a director?

Suzuki Yusuke: How this story explores the theme of life and death, and how it constructs such a profound theme in the narrative arc.

How did the team blend the dark themes of the story with the seaside and summer environment when developing the look of the anime series?

Suzuki: We focus on creating a beautiful visual style, faithful to the spirit of the original comics. A key element that impressed me by the comics was the portrayal of water and deep seas – these were emotional landscapes, especially during the moments of the hinako personality shift. For example, when she is moved by Shiori or feels the feeling of being isolated from others, these inner emotions are reflected in these symbolic visual effects. We try to capture these feelings as faithfully as possible in the animation.

This monster wants to eat me Take place in the creator SinekavaThe hometown area of ehime county. For viewers who are unfamiliar with Japan, what key information should they know to appreciate the environment of the story?

Suzuki: The story unfolds in a quiet seaside town, evoking the tranquil, nostalgic charm of rural Japan. Just imagine a quiet coastal village away from the hustle and bustle of the city – gentle sea breeze drifts in the air, friendly cats roam freely around the fishing harbor. This is an eternal, quiet, deeply rooted in everyday beauty.

Among the monsters that appear in the story, do you like to be alive in the anime the most?

Suzuki: Our character designers, Nozomi Ikuyamagreat done – I really only have compliments. While human characters like hinako are well-designed, Yokai strikes a compelling balance between weirdness and elegance. I think this contrast is key, and can be subtle improvements while increasing strength and disturbing qualities, and may also be one of the creative highlights of the project.

exist trailerThere is a stunning line from Shiori to Hinako: “I’m here to swallow you.” When it comes to the dynamic between these two characters, can you share what audiences should pay attention to?

Suzuki: As the story develops, their emotional state and relationships develop significantly. I hope the audience will pay close attention to how their bonds deepen and change over time.

The protagonist hinako Yaotose suffered a major tragedy and therefore withdrew his halo. Can you talk about her appeal to the audience in the story?

Suzuki: This is a tough question. Although the audience may sympathize with Hinako’s miserable circumstances, they cannot easily indulge her desires, which is what makes her character so complex and layered. Perhaps it was this contradiction that increased her appeal.

What are you looking for when casting Hinako, Shiori and Miko when it comes to vocal performances of the main trio?

Suzuki: Honestly, sound performance is important, as if they were coming out of the comics.

For Hinako, we focus on expressing her vulnerable appearance and the quiet power of her resignation. Shiori, by contrast, exudes confidence, but this is crucial to capture. Miko brings brightness and humor to a serious story. Although she seems carefree, she actually knows the mood very well and intentionally brings motivation. This contrast is a key part of her charm.

Similarly, when working with the composer Keiji InaiHow do you co-create soundtracks that capture the emotions of the story?

Suzuki: It is an honor to work with Inai-San – each question brings rich musical insights. Some background music is developed in the style of film ratings and forms a specific scene. We didn’t give him many specific instructions. Instead, he absorbs the tone of the original material and plot board and weaves the emotional subtleties of the characters. The emotional depth of the series does become active as we combine his score with the visuals.

Finally, do you have any news about international fans?

Suzuki: Our entire team devotes their passion to this work. We hope you will listen and enjoy the show!

This monster wants to eat me The first episode will premiere in David’s US on August 8 at 4:30 pm. Comic Creator Sinekavacomic editor Takumi Kamemaru and anime producer Ena Hamabe Events will also be attended. Fans can also participate in the EDT live draw and special talk show group at 6:45 pm on August 9.

This monster wants to eat me It will premiere in October. The comic is available in English Yen Publishing House.

Disclosure: Kadokawa World Entertainment (KWE), a wholly owned subsidiary of Kadokawa Corporation, is the majority owner of Anime News Network, LLC. One of the companies mentioned in this article is part of the Kadokawa Group.