Next year will see the release of the TV adaptation of the horror-comedy manga Dara of Reiwa (Reiwa no Dara-san), as announced in this report. A short teaser has already been revealed - not especially detailed, but full of eerie atmosphere and dark humor that captures the manga’s quirky tone.
The story begins on a stormy night when a mountain landslide destroys a barbed-wire fence surrounding an old temple. The fallen debris also takes out a series of weathered warning signs. The next morning, a brother and sister wander into the area, unaware of what lies inside. Within the ruins, they encounter an ancient, malicious deity who has spent centuries isolated in the mountains. Instead of running away in terror, the siblings strike up an unlikely conversation with the mysterious being, sparking a bizarre new relationship filled with supernatural comedy and disturbing charm.
The manga blends creepy folklore with modern-day absurdity, making it stand out within Japan’s growing trend of horror-comedy stories. Readers have often praised its ability to balance unsettling mythological elements with light-hearted character interactions. The upcoming anime adaptation promises to retain that balance, mixing unsettling visuals with moments of humor and tenderness. Though little is known about the cast or studio, fans are anticipating a faithful and visually inventive take on this strange and witty tale.
