When They Cry

When They Cry, also known as Higurashi No Naku Koro Ni, is an animated series from 2006 produced by FUNimation. This captivating horror mystery enthralls viewers with its unique blend of chilling suspense, intricate storytelling, and multilayered characters.

The storyline is set in the quiet, rustic village of Hinamizawa in the summer of 1983. Keiichi Maebara, who recently moved to Hinamizawa, lives ordinarily with friendly locals and spends his days attending school and participating in club activities with his new group of friends: Rena Ryugu, Mion Sonozaki, Satoko Houjou, and Rika Furude. Within this seemingly calm and tranquil locale hides a past fraught with secrets and a strange annual tradition - the Watanagashi Festival.

Once a year at this festival, which is meant to appease the local deity Oyashiro, a strange occurrence repeats itself: one person dies and another disappears under mysterious circumstances. These series of inexplicable events are often shrouded in the folklore of divine punishment and have come to be known as "Oyashiro's Curse." When Keiichi learns about this chilling tradition, his life starts to veer off the familiar tracks of everyday routine.

While each episode follows similar timelines and settings, the plot diverges into different directions, presenting alternative events and perspectives. The repetition of these cycles and the variability of the outcomes lay a complex web of intrigue, slowly peeling off the layers of the story and its characters. As Keiichi and his friends seek to uncover the truth, they find themselves entangled in a bleak labyrinth of deception, paranoia, and insane rage.

When They Cry stands out among anime horror genre through its masterful weaving of various elements – psychological horror, dramatic suspense and episodic storytelling. The pretense of an idyllic rural community contrasts starkly against the sinister undertones of the plot, creating an eerie irony that escalates the tension and the sense of dread. The show’s animation reflects this dichotomy, balancing cheerful and vibrant visuals with disturbing imagery and moments of chilling horror.

Another significant element in the series is its characters. Their development creates a compelling narrative, with each character having their quirks and moments. However, every member of the group is more complex than they appear on the surface, each holding their mysteries and fears that become unraveled throughout the series. Their progression throughout the story, coupled with their struggle against an invisible and menacing enemy, allows for deep and humane portraits of terror, despair, and loyalty.

The narrative arcs can be construed as a puzzle, a mystery to be put together as the audience is led through a series of successes, missteps, and revelations. Each arc unravels another level of the story, morphing viewer perceptions of the characters and their actions, as well as stirring up more questions about the true nature of Hinamizawa and its disturbed history.

The sound design of the series is equally noteworthy. Its audio aesthetics shifts seamlessly between tranquil rural sounds, lively festival music, and oppressive silence, further enhancing the suspense and feelings of unease. The opening and ending themes, characterized by haunting melodies and eerie lyrics, prepare and steady the viewer for the rollercoaster of emotions they are about to embark on.

When They Cry bravely tackles heavy themes, such as trust, paranoia, fear, and the battle for truth - making the series a thought-provoking experience. Its cyclical narrative structure gives viewers a sense of deja vu but keeps them on the edge of their seats, as they delve into differing perspectives of reality, only to uncover more shocking layers of the core mystery.

In conclusion, When They Cry is an epitome of what a psychological horror and mystery anime should be — refreshing, unsettling, and absolutely mind-bending. Its narrative complexity, well-developed characters, and the thoughtful blend of horrifying and disquieting elements keep you engaged, making it a must-watch for anime lovers, particularly those who enjoy suspense and thriller genres. The series is as captivating as it is terrifying, promising an unforgettable journey into the seemingly scenic and peaceful world of Hinamizawa, plagued by a curse that lurks beneath.