A New Supernatural Human Drama: An Interview with This Monster Wants to Eat Me Director Yusuke Suzuki

Hinako Yaotose's life hasn't been easy. After surviving an accident that killed her family, she goes through her school days in her quiet seaside town under a cloud of survivor's guilt. It's then that she's confronted with a horrible opportunity: a monster who wants to eat her. That's how Hinako's relationship with the mermaid Shiori begins, but perhaps before consuming her, Shiori just might teach Hinako the value of living.

We spoke with This Monster Wants to Eat Me director Yusuke Suzuki about adapting Sai Naekawa's manga to the screen, casting the perfect voice actors for the main character trio, and how he set the stage for this supernatural human drama.

What interested you in the story of This Monster Wants to Eat Me as a director?

Yusuke Suzuki: I was deeply intrigued by how the story explores themes of life and death, and how it would structure such profound themes within a narrative arc.

When it came to developing the look of the anime series, how did the team blend the story's darker themes with its seaside and summer setting?

SUZUKI: We focused on creating a beautiful visual style that stays true to the spirit of the original manga. One key element from the manga that left a strong impression on me was the depiction of water and the deep sea—these serve as emotional landscapes, especially during moments of emotional shift in Hinako's character. For instance, when she is touched by Shiori or feels a sense of isolation from others, those inner emotions are reflected in these symbolic visuals. We tried to capture those feelings as faithfully as possible in the animation.

This Monster Wants to Eat Me takes place in creator Sai Naekawa's hometown area of Ehime prefecture. For viewers who aren't as familiar with Japan, what key information should they know to appreciate the story's setting?

SUZUKI: The story unfolds in a tranquil seaside town that evokes the peaceful, nostalgic charm of rural Japan. Just imagine a quiet coastal village, far from the hustle and bustle of the city—where gentle sea breezes drift through the air, and friendly cats roam freely around the fishing port. It's a setting that feels timeless, serene, and deeply rooted in everyday beauty.

Of the monsters that appear in the story, is there one you most enjoyed bringing to life in the anime?

SUZUKI: Our character designer, Nozomi Ikuyama, did an outstanding job—I truly have nothing but praise. While the human characters, like Hinako, are delicately designed, the yokai strike a compelling balance between eeriness and elegance. I think that contrast—maintaining a subtle refinement while adding strength and unsettling qualities—was key, and likely one of the creative highlights of the project.

In the trailer, there's a striking line from Shiori to Hinako: "I've come to devour you." Could you share what viewers should pay attention to when it comes to the dynamic between these two characters?

SUZUKI: As the story progresses, their emotional states and relationship evolve significantly. I hope viewers will keep a close eye on how their bond deepens and changes over time.

Protagonist Hinako Yaotose has suffered a major tragedy and has a withdrawn aura as a result. Can you talk about her appeal to viewers within the story?

SUZUKI: That's a tough question. While audiences may sympathize with Hinako's tragic circumstances, they can't easily condone her desires—that's precisely what makes her character so complex and layered. Perhaps it's that very contradiction that adds to her appeal.

When it comes to the vocal performances of the primary trio, what were you looking for when casting Hinako, Shiori, and Miko?

SUZUKI: Honestly, the voice performances are spot on, as if they stepped right out of the manga.

For Hinako, we focused on expressing both her fragile appearance and the quiet strength behind her resignation to sorrow. Shiori, in contrast, exudes confidence, but it's the hidden gentleness beneath that strength that was important to capture. Miko brings brightness and humor to an otherwise serious story. While she appears carefree, she's actually very aware of the mood and intentionally brings positivity. That contrast is a key part of her charm.

Similarly, when working with composer Keiji Inai, how did you work together to create the soundtrack that would capture the story's mood?

SUZUKI: Working with Inai-san was a pleasure—every question yielded a wealth of musical insight. Some of the background music was developed in a film scoring style, composed to match specific scenes. We didn't give him many concrete instructions; instead, he absorbed the tone of the source material and storyboards, and wove in the emotional subtleties of the characters. When we combined his score with the visuals, the emotional depth of the series truly came alive.

Lastly, do you have a message for international fans?

SUZUKI: Our entire team poured their passion into this production. We hope you'll tune in and enjoy the show!

This Monster Wants to Eat Me episode one will premiere in the U.S. at Otakon on August 8 at 4:30pm EDT. Manga creator Sai Naekawa, manga editor Takumi Kamemaru, and anime producer Ena Hamabe will also attend the event. Fans can also attend the live-drawing and special talk panel on August 9 at 6:45pm EDT.

This Monster Wants to Eat Me will premiere in October. The manga is available in English from Yen Press.