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Kemonozume serves as a grand experiment in both animation and narrative. The storyline initially establishes a firm foundation, evolving into a suspenseful romance with a rapid influx of plot twists soon after the introduction. Yet, it is akin to a perplexing mind-bender, albeit in reverse, once it undergoes a narrative whirlwind. Allow me to elaborate. A compelling mind-bending show usually starts with a relatively comprehensible premise, gradually intensifying the mystery and dropping subtle clues, possibly enhancing the viewer's confusion, until everything clicks into place at the climax. However, this show resembles a fusion of FLCL, Saikano, and Higurashi: commencing as incredibly bizarre yet comprehensible, it progressively introduces increasingly absurd concepts to an initially solid plot, culminating in a chaotic blend of limbs, sex, monsters, gore, and surreal elements, all delicately hanging on the frail remnants of what was once a coherent storyline, albeit slightly eccentric. Describing this as a robust romantic show with elements of gore and mind-bending would be akin to labeling FLCL as an intellectual narrative about saving the world, when it was essentially a vibrant explosion of colors.
The animation tends to evoke either love or disdain. Despite its unconventional aesthetics, akin to Hitsuji no Uta, the animation style complements the overall atmosphere of the show, and I wouldn't have it any other way. Moreover, the distinctive art contributes to making the extensive use of absurd gore more palatable.
Ultimately, I wouldn't readily recommend this anime to a broad audience. The incorporation of violence and explicit content makes it unsuitable, and the pervasive gore and unpredictability may dissuade many from watching. However, if you find yourself among the unconventional enthusiasts like myself, intrigued by experimental series, and unfazed by a touch of mind-bending, then you might find Kemonozume interesting.
