Anime is often mistakenly perceived as purely a children’s entertainment medium, largely due to the prevalence of battle shōnen series aimed at younger audiences. However, this genre is merely one facet of a diverse spectrum of anime that caters to mature viewers, featuring intricate narratives and darker themes. Each anime season introduces a variety of shows tailored for adult audiences, some of which have achieved phenomenal success, competing with the top-grossing anime franchises in terms of annual revenue.
It’s also important to note that even within shōnen, moments of darkness can prevail. Anime regularly explores serious themes, showcasing the profound emotional impact that shocking scenes can have, especially within narratives typically deemed lighthearted. Disturbing moments, whether due to their sheer shock or the weight they carry for the story, linger in the minds of viewers long after watching.
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The Third Impact
The End of Evangelion, Animated by Gainax, Directed by Hideaki Anno
Neon Genesis Evangelion is renowned for its unconventional storytelling, departing from its giant robot premise to delve into the psychological intricacies of its characters. By the release of The End of Evangelion in 1997, audiences anticipated an extraordinary experience, yet they were unprepared for the film’s intensely disturbing conclusion. The film shifts focus back to the outside world, presenting brutal and apocalyptic imagery.
The representation of the Third Impact is one of the most visually arresting sequences in anime history, showcasing Rei’s merger with Lilith and Eva Unit-01 transforming into the Tree of Life. This event triggers the Human Instrumentality Project, inundating humanity with a surreal orange liquid known as ‘LCL,’ merging them into a singular consciousness—all accompanied by a haunting mix of Rei’s laughter intertwined with ’90s pop music.
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Ai Hoshino’s Death
Oshi no Ko, Animated by Doga Kobo, Directed by Daisuke Hiramaki
In a shocking twist, characters Ai Hoshino and her former patient are reincarnated as her newborn twins. The series takes a tragic turn when Ai is brutally stabbed to death in front of her children, leaving them powerless to intervene. Initially marketed as an idol-centric tale with unexpected elements, this harrowing death in the very first episode profoundly traumatized viewers.
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Acrobatic Silky’s Origin Story
Dandadan, Animated by Science Saru, Directed by Fuga Yamashiro
Dandadan emerged as a standout hit in 2024, captivating the anime community with its fresh blend of supernatural action and wacky humor centered around a boy’s quest to reclaim his stolen reproductive organs. Halfway through its initial season, audiences believed they had a grip on its premise. Yet, episode seven, titled “To a Kinder World,”delivered a gut-wrenching emotional punch.
The flashback detailing Acrobatic Silky’s origin begins with tender moments between a mother and her child, showcasing the mother’s dedication to ensuring her daughter’s well-being. This heartwarming narrative takes a dark turn when intruders violently invade their home, gravely injuring the mother and abducting the child. In a poignant scene, the grieving mother dances atop a rooftop to a melancholic piano tune, plunging to her death—a moment shockingly out of place in a series steeped in humor and eccentricity, yet masterfully executed alongside Kensuke Ushio’s haunting score.
5
Lucy’s Bullies Do Something Unforgivable
Elfen Lied, Animated by Arms, Directed by Mamoru Kanbe
Once considered a rite of passage for anime lovers, 2004’s Elfen Lied is a visceral and violent series featuring a mutant species known as Diclonii. The dark narrative unveils the brutal realities faced by the series’ protagonist, Lucy, who emerges from a containment facility as a remorseless killer. Following her escape, Lucy sustains an injury and adopts a gentler persona named Nyu.
As the plot progresses, audiences witness the tragic backstory that contributed to Lucy’s violent behavior. In a haunting flashback, childhood bullies capture her puppy and attack it mercilessly while restraining her. This particular scene stands out in a series known for its graphic violence, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.
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Shou Tucker Fuses His Daughter and Dog
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, Animated by Bones, Directed by Yasuhiro Irie
Often hailed as one of the greatest anime of all time, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood captures the hearts of viewers despite its dark undertones. In just the fourth episode, one of anime’s most horrifying moments occurs when the Elric brothers encounter Shou Tucker, famed for his chimeric alchemy.
Upon returning to Tucker’s home, the brothers discover not only his daughter Nina missing but also a grotesque new chimera that merges her with their pet dog. This revelation unfolds with heartbreaking clarity as Ed deduces the truth behind this abomination, and Nina’s fractured speech continues to haunt audiences well beyond the series’ conclusion.
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Shinji Visits Asuka in the Hospital
The End of Evangelion, Animated by Gainax, Directed by Hideaki Anno
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Setsuko’s Final Moments
Grave of the Fireflies, Animated by Studio Ghibli, Directed by Isao Takahata
While Studio Ghibli is appreciated for its heartwarming family films, Grave of the Fireflies starkly contrasts this reputation. Set in wartime Japan, this poignant story follows 14-year-old Seita and his younger sister Setsuko as they navigate survival after losing their mother to a bombing. Their journey becomes increasingly tragic as they escape to an abandoned air-raid shelter.
Depleting resources lead to Setsuko suffering from severe malnutrition. In a particularly heartbreaking scene, Seita arrives home to find his sister hallucinating and mistaking marbles for rice balls. After sharing a moment of tenderness with watermelon, he leaves to find more supplies, only to return and discover that Setsuko has not awakened. The heart-wrenching portrayal of childhood suffering amid war is impossible to forget.
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The Eclipse
Berserk, Animated by OLM, Directed by Naohito Takahashi
Among the most acclaimed manga series ever produced, Berserk is revered for its dark fantasy narrative, which is brought to life in the OLM adaptation. The series is rife with disturbing moments, yet none are more shocking than the Eclipse, a harrowing event marked by Griffith’s betrayal. As he seeks demonic power, he sacrifices his comrades in front of Guts, who can only watch helplessly.
The Eclipse not only signifies unthinkable violence and horror but also eliminates the characters whom viewers have invested in throughout the entire series, leaving them to grapple with the aftermath in devastating silence. While Berserk is undoubtedly a remarkable work, prospective viewers should heed content warnings before watching, due to its sheer intensity.