Anime Review - Nekomonogatari Black (2012)

What happened during Golden Week? It is a part of the timeline that has been briefly discussed but rarely shown—until Nekomonogatari: Black. We finally get to see what happened. This four-episode arc follows one of my favourite characters from the previous series, Tsubasa Hanekawa, and continues to flesh her out in a nuanced way. We get to see more of her home life and how negatively it affects her. The series has never shied away from tackling very real and mature subject matter, and this arc is no exception.

Nekomonogatari: Black mainly tackles the themes of love and the challenges of dealing with abusive households. These themes are explored primarily through Hanekawa’s and Araragi’s relationship, as well as Hanekawa herself. From the opening of episode one, the series delves into these subjects. We see Araragi talking to his sisters about what it means to be in love and what feelings constitute love. While the series has explored romance before, this incarnation resonated with me on a personal level.

On the other hand, one scene in particular will truly shock viewers with its depiction of abuse. Araragi breaks into Tsubasa Hanekawa’s house to discover what is going on, and what he uncovers shocks and horrifies him. It is not what you would expect, but it is nevertheless unnerving. Aside from a few moments here and there when fan service rears its ugly head, this arc is significantly more serious compared to Nisemonogatari and Kizumonogatari. Narratively, it aligns more closely with Bakemonogatari, and because of that, I found the story to be utterly compelling.

Shaft, however, is at the top of its game when it comes to animation. The series has always looked gorgeous, and this arc is no exception. The style and flair are still as unique and visually stimulating as ever. From the chapter numbers and quotes flashing on the screen to the muted colour palette used during night scenes, the show remains visually distinctive, unlike any other anime currently airing or that has aired in the past. Even though it isn’t an action-heavy series, when action scenes do occur, they hit harder and faster than many action anime, with severed body parts and blood splattering across surfaces.

Nekomonogatari Black may only be four episodes long, but it is nothing short of great. It features everything I love about the series: engaging characters, relatable and authentic drama, and fantastical moments that amplify the message being conveyed. By the time the arc ends, you’ll find yourself rethinking Hanekawa’s and Araragi’s relationship in ways that are emotionally gut-wrenching. This series is unlike anything I’ve ever seen, and I loved every moment of it.