In July 2020, Weekley Shonen Jump published a digital manga on Shonen Jump+ titled, “Kaiju No. 8.” The story’s about a guy named, Kafka Hibino. A down-on-his-uck cleaner whose duty is to dispose a giant monster’s remains. Kafka dreams of joining the Defense Force along with his childhood friend, Mina Ashiro. Unfortunately, she became a high-ranking officer leaving him behind. The Defense Force is a military organization tasked to combat giant monsters, preventing them from wreaking havoc.
One night, a bug enters Kafka’s mouth, causing him to transform into a human sized monster with powers. After numerous attempts to join the army, Kafka’s dreams come true. He must learn to control his powers and never let anybody (except his new friends, Reno Ichikawa & Kikoru Shinomiya) know his secret. Meanwhile, a powerful human-sized Kaiju wreaks havoc.
The manga sold millions of copies. Four Years Later, animation studio, Production I.G. produced an anime adaptation. Kaiju No. 8’s first season officially streamed in 2024 (same year Dune: Part Two came out) on Crunchyroll. It received positive reviews from critics and streamers alike. Season 2 will stream in July 2025. Which is my birthday month. That’s gonna be my present along with James Gunn’s “Superman” & “The Fantastic Four: The First Steps.” By the way, Kaiju No. 8 is nominated for “Anime of the Year” in the upcoming Crunchyroll Anime Awards 2025. Mark your calandars anime fans, the awards show will stream on May 25.
Today’s review contains no SPOILERS. Don’t bother seeing “Kaiju No. 8: Mission Recon” on the big screen. It’s just a condensed recap leading up to Season 2. Save your money on “Thunderbolts.”
Hugh & Tiny Qualities
Huge: Voice Actors all did a great job for their respective voiceover performances.
Fun Fact: I saw Nazeeh Tarsha (Kafka in the flesh) at Fan Expo Dallas 2024 signing autographs and taking snapshots with people at an anime themed after party. I cannot wait for the upcoming three-day event on May 31-June 2. I got plans to write an editorial about my experience attending the place as I did last year.
Animation brings a few things to life such as character models, giant monsters, fluid movement, lighting etc.
Action Sequences showcase Kafka going mono e mono on Kaiju. My favorite battles were a red Kaiju and seeing Kikoru’s father, Isao duking it out with Kafka.
Funny Moments in between seriousness and comedy. My favorite joke’s the part when Kafka flexes in a tub.
The series is influenced by “Godzilla,” “Pacific Rim,” “Ultraman” & “Starship Troopers.”
Pacing didn’t feel like a drab. My eyes were glued to the screen.
Kafka’s chemistry with Reno & Kikoru serves as the main highlight.
A mysterious human-sized Kaiju known as “Kaiju No. 9” factors in.
In the fourth episode, Kikoru said, “I was perfect.” A possible shout out to “Black Swan.” It’s funny, because Natalie Portman (my favorite movie actress) starred in Apple TV’s “Lady in the Lake” the exact same year Kaiju No. 8 streamed. I have not seen it.
Yungblud’s “Abyss” plays during the Opening Credits. Looks like something off of James Bond. More tolerable than Emila Perez’s so-called Oscar-winning song, “El Mal.”
OneRepublic’s “Nobody” plays during the End Credits.
Last Scene sets up Season 2. One more thing, stay tuned for a Post-Credits Scene.
Tiny: During a training session, how come Kikoru doesn’t get a concussion? I know the Defense Force suits enhance a soldier’s ability, but every single one doesn’t wear a helmet.
The Final Verdict: A-
Kaiju No. 8 kept me entertained. A worthy Anime of the Year contender along with “Solo Leveling” and my number one pick, “DandaDan.” I voted for the latter for the aforementioned award. It was a tough choice choosing which one earns the crown. I think DandaDan will take the crown. If you like giant monsters or anime, give Kaiju No. 8 a shot.
Which anime do you think deserves Anime of the Year? Please leave a comment. Feel free to send me a request on which anime series should I review next? Don’t be shy.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 