Watch Pet Shop of Horrors

Pet Shop of Horrors is a supernatural anime series that premiered in TBS Japan in 1999. The show revolves around the mysterious Count D, a supernatural pet shop owner who specializes in rare and exotic animals that hide dark secrets. The story follows the different customers who visit his shop in order to purchase their desired pets.

Masaya Onosaka lends his voice to the enigmatic Count D, the proprietor of a pet store in Chinatown selling creatures that transcend their initial appearance. The show primarily features episodic stories from the customers who visit the pet shop, each of whom has their own reasons for acquiring a pet. However, as they continue to interact with the Count, they soon learn that the animals they are taking home may not be what they seem.

Each episode is structured like a separate horror story, with often chilling undertones lurking beneath the surface. The storyline features dark themes that revolve around the development of each customer's pet and how it brings transformation to the customers' lives. In each episode, Count D offers a contract of sorts to his customers, with a series of rules that must be followed in order for the relationship with the pet to continue. Failure to adhere to the contract can result in devastating consequences, offering the series a chilling quality that keeps viewers coming back for more.

The underlying narrative involves the mysterious Count D, who appears to be an immortal figure with an unusual connection to the supernatural world. He possesses the ability to read people's deepest desires, leading him to offer animals that seemingly fulfill their desires. The Count's backstory is a mystery that is gradually revealed across the series' 4-episode arc. As the show progresses, more layers of his character are unveiled, as he is revealed to be a fascinating anti-hero that offers a unique presence in the show's otherwise haunting atmosphere.

The animation style of Pet Shop of Horrors is vivid, colorful, and utilizes a wide range of animation techniques, making every episode visually dynamic. The art style is highly detailed, with an almost gothic aesthetic that perfectly complements the show's horror themes. Fans of horror and fantasy will appreciate the intricate design of the animals and the vivid landscapes that serve as the backdrop for each of the stories.

Musically, the show is underscored by an electrifying soundtrack that sets the mood for each of the episodes. The various musical themes were composed by Toshio Masuda, who expertly blends various styles together, ranging from soft acoustic melodies, to more ominous, atmospheric tracks that heighten the underlying tension in the show. The end credits sequence features an infectious pop track sure to get stuck in viewers' heads long after the credits roll.

The series is a highly-recommended watch for those who enjoy their horror alongside fascinating characters, striking animation, and expert storytelling. Pet Shop of Horrors is a classic entry in the horror/fantasy anime genre and is sure to entertain viewers with its mesmerizing setting, memorable characters, and twisty narratives.

Overall, Pet Shop of Horrors is a must-watch for those who appreciate expertly crafted horror and supernatural narratives, with richly developed characters and stylishly designed animation. The show perfectly balances its themes of horror, fantasy, and drama, making every episode a tense, exciting ride. The mysterious Count D and his pet shop make for a truly unique setting that is both unnervingly eerie and critically compelling.

Pet Shop of Horrors is a series that ran for 1 seasons (4 episodes) between March 1, 1999 and on TBS Japan