The appeal and evaluation of "Higurashi When They Cry: Graduation": A must-see finale for fans

A comprehensive review and recommendation of "Higurashi When They Cry: Graduation"

overview

Higurashi When They Cry: Graduation (ヒグラシノナクコーニ ソツ) is a TV anime series that aired from July 1 to September 30, 2021. It is based on the game Higurashi When They Cry by Ryukishi07, and the animation was produced by Passione. It consists of 15 episodes and was broadcast every Thursday from 11:30 pm on TOKYO MX and BS11. The series is a sequel to Higurashi When They Cry: Gou, which aired in 2020, and is positioned as the conclusion of the story.

story

"Higurashi When They Cry: Graduation" is a mystery horror story set in the quiet rural town of Hinamizawa Village in the summer of 1983. It is a sequel to the previous work "Higurashi When They Cry: Gou"'s "Watanagashi Arc," "Tatari-goroshi Arc," and "Meakashi Arc," and is made up of three chapters: "Tsumihoro-hen," "Massacre Arc," and "Matsuribayashi Arc." It depicts the protagonist Keiichi Maebara and his friends as they confront the mystery and terror lurking in the village.

In "Graduation," the mysteries that were not revealed in the previous work are explored even more deeply, and the psychological portrayal of the characters and the changes in their relationships are depicted in detail. In particular, the relationship between Keiichi and Hanyuu, and Rika's determination and actions are at the center of the story and are important elements that draw the viewer in. In addition, past events and current events intersect, and the complex timeline further excites the story.

character

There are many fascinating characters in "Higurashi When They Cry: Graduation." The main characters are introduced below.

Keiichi Maebara

The protagonist is a high school student who moves to Hinamizawa Village. He has a bright and friendly personality, but his expression changes as he learns the village's secrets.

Ryugu Rena

Keiichi's classmate. She has a gentle personality, but sometimes shows a crazy side. Her past and present actions have a big impact on the story.

Mion Sonozaki

Keiichi's classmate and one of twin sisters. She is tomboyish and has leadership skills, but her personality is the opposite of her younger sister, Mion.

Shion Sonozaki

Mion's twin sister. She has a gentle and kind personality, but can also show strong will at times. Her actions often hold important keys to the story.

Satoko Hojo

Keiichi's classmate. Contrary to her youthful appearance, she harbors a deep darkness. Her actions often become the center of the story.

Furude Rika

Keiichi's classmate and the shrine maiden of the village shrine. The story often progresses from her perspective, and her decisions and actions are major turning points in the story.

Hanyu

A friend of Rika's who knows her secret. Her presence is often the key to solving the mystery of the story.

Animation and performance

The animation for "Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Sotsu" was produced by Passione and faithfully reproduces the atmosphere of the original work. In particular, the dark color tones used to emphasize the horror elements and the detailed depiction of the characters' facial expressions are impressive. In terms of direction, there are many scenes in which past events and present events intersect, which has the effect of visually livening up the story.

Music is also an important element in enhancing the atmosphere of the story. In particular, the selection of background music and the use of sound effects are clever, helping to heighten the tension of the viewer. The opening theme "I believe what you said" and the ending theme "Fukisokusei Entropy" are also highly praised for reflecting the theme of the story.

Ratings and Recommendations

"Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Sotsu" is a work that can be enjoyed not only by fans of the original work, but also by viewers who are experiencing the series for the first time. It is especially recommended for those who like mystery and horror. It is also suitable for those who want to enjoy the portrayal of characters' psychology and changes in human relationships.

The appeal of this series is, above all, the depth of its story and the appeal of its characters. The story, which is intertwined with a complex timeline and mysteries, has the power to draw viewers in. In addition, the characters' growth and changes are carefully depicted, making it easy to empathize with the characters, which is also highly praised.

Furthermore, you can get a deeper understanding of the story by watching "Higurashi When They Cry: Graduation" together with its predecessor "Higurashi When They Cry: Gou." By watching both series consecutively, you will be able to get a full picture of the story and enjoy it even more.

Related works and recommendations

For those who enjoyed "Higurashi When They Cry: Graduation," we also recommend the following related works:

• "Higurashi When They Cry: Gou" - This is the prequel to "Graduation" and depicts the first half of the story. It is a must-see for those who want to understand "Graduation" more deeply.
• "Higurashi When They Cry" - A series that aired in 2007, this is an animated version of the "Answer Arc" from the original work. It will help you understand the background of "Graduation".
• When They Cry - Also by Ryukishi07, this series is full of mystery and horror elements. Highly recommended for Higurashi fans.

Conclusion

"Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Sotsu" is recommended for those who like mysteries and horror, and those who want to enjoy the portrayal of the characters' psychology and changes in human relationships. It is enjoyable not only for fans of the original work, but also for viewers who are experiencing the series for the first time. With a complex timeline, a story intertwined with mysteries, and carefully depicted characters' growth and changes, this work has the power to draw viewers in. By watching it together with the previous work "Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Gou", you will be able to grasp the whole picture of the story and enjoy it even more. Also, by enjoying related works together, you will be able to gain a deeper understanding and be moved.