Watch When They Cry

When They Cry is a thrilling anime series brought to viewers by FUNimation in 2006. This horror-mystery show follows the plot of the popular visual novel series under the same name created by Ryukishi07. The anime is directed by Chiaki Kon, produced by Studio Deen, and features an incredible voice cast, including Souichiro Hoshi, Mai Nakahara, Satsuki Yukino, Mika Kanai, Tamura Yukari, Chafurin, Toru Ohkawa, Daisuke Ono, and Toshihiko Seki.

The plot revolves around a town called Hinamizawa, a peaceful village that seems harmonious on the surface but is hiding dark secrets underneath. The story mainly focuses on the unconventional group of young friends known as the "Club of Detectives," who often engage in various activities after school, such as playing games. However, their normal lives get interrupted when strange events begin to occur in the town.

As the series progresses, viewers discover that Hinamizawa's dark past is rooted in a curse that befell the village several years ago. The curse was allegedly caused by a local deity, Oyashiro, who punishes the villagers whenever they try to leave the village's traditions behind. The curse causes deaths and tragedies in the village, which only a select few seem to remember.

When They Cry is divided into various story arcs, with each arc retelling the same narrative but from different points of view. The arcs are presented in a non-linear fashion, making it difficult for viewers to piece together the events and understand the mystery. This nonlinear narrative structure keeps the viewers engaged and leaves them wondering what will happen next.

The first story arc, "Onikakushi-hen," centers around a young boy named Keiichi Maebara, who recently moved to the town. Keiichi quickly befriends a group of girls who are members of the "Club of Detectives." However, as he becomes closer to the girls, unexplainable events start to occur. People begin to disappear, and some of his friends start acting strange. Keiichi starts to feel like something sinister is happening in the town, and he can't trust his friends.

The second story arc, "Watanagashi-hen," takes place after the events of the first arc. This time around, the focus is on a girl named Rena Ryugu. Rena, who also belongs to the "Club of Detectives," tries to confront the curse head-on, but as she delves deeper into the curse's history, things start to unfold.

The third story arc, "Tatarigoroshi-hen," takes place twenty-five years before the first arc. This story arc follows the life of a girl named Shion Sonozaki, who discovers the hidden secrets behind the village's traditions and curse.

All the arcs are captivating and suspenseful, with numerous twists and turns that keep the viewers guessing. The series explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the impact of societal pressures.

When They Cry is not a show for the faint-hearted, as it portrays graphic violence and explores mature themes. The animation and art style used in the anime are stunning and bring the characters and the town of Hinamizawa to life. The voice acting is also superb, with every character delivering their lines with passion and gravitas.

In conclusion, When They Cry is a must-watch anime series, especially for fans of horror and mystery genres. The show features an intricate plot, an all-star voice cast, and beautiful animation. The nonlinear narrative structure keeps the viewers invested and maintains the element of surprise throughout the series. Watchers should brace themselves for some gore and mature themes, but they will be rewarded with an unforgettable anime experience.

When They Cry is a series that ran for 3 seasons (55 episodes) between and on FUNimation