Kodansha's Afternoon magazine has released a slickly animated promotional video to celebrate the launch of the first compiled volume of Gyakusatsu Kigen (Genocide Origin). The crime-thriller manga is a high-profile collaboration between illustrator Shiwasu Hoshikawa (known for artistically helming the Bungo Stray Dogs: Dazai, Chuuya, Age Fifteen and STORM BRINGER manga adaptations) and scenario writer Yuichiro Momose (the narrative architect behind Hypnosis Mic). Renowned voice actor Soma Saito provides the intense narration for the promo.
The promotional short boasts impressive industry production talent despite being a manga release teaser. Takehiro Kubota (director of My Happy Marriage) handled storyboard duties, accompanied by veteran key animators Atsushi Ikariya and Keita Shimizu. Background art was painted by Masakazu Miyake and Taichi Maezuka, with Tetsuya Tatamitani overseeing editing and compositing photography. The atmospheric musical backdrop was composed by Yashikin, with sound effects and casting managed by Ippei Tomari.
Dark Crime Mystery Narrative
Serialized in Afternoon since May 2024, Gyakusatsu Kigen presents a grim depiction of modern Japan plagued by relentless brutal violence. The story centers on high school student Rakki, who is saved from a violent confrontation with a classmate by a mysterious delinquent referred to only as "A." The situation rapidly escalates into horror as ruthless murderers codenamed "K" and "D" cross their paths, uncovering the gruesome slaughter of Rakki's peers. With Hoshikawa's sharp artistic direction and Momose's flair for dramatic, character-driven tension, the series marks a compelling addition to Kodansha's flagship seinen roster.
