The Detective Is Already Dead Anime: A Review

Hey there, anime fans! Have you ever wondered what happens after the great detective solves all the mysteries? What if that detective *dies*? Well, that's the core concept behind The Detective Is Already Dead, also known as Tantei wa Mou, Shindeiru. (探偵はもう、死んでいる。) or Tanmoshi for short.

Premise: An Unlikely Partnership Cut Short

The story kicks off with Kimihiko Kimizuka, a high school student who just can't seem to catch a break. He's constantly getting caught up in troublesome situations. One fateful day, while on a plane, he's unexpectedly drawn into a world of intrigue and adventure when he becomes the assistant to a brilliant, albeit eccentric, detective named Siesta. Siesta is unlike any detective Kimihiko has ever met. She's witty, resourceful, and possesses a unique, almost supernatural, ability to solve cases.

Together, Kimihiko and Siesta travel the globe, solving mysteries that range from foiling terrorist plots to unraveling ancient conspiracies. They form a deep bond, relying on each other's strengths to overcome incredible odds. Their partnership is a whirlwind of excitement, danger, and surprisingly heartwarming moments. However, their adventurous life takes a drastic turn when Siesta tragically dies, leaving Kimihiko to grapple with grief and the sudden void in his life.

Life After Siesta: A Return to the Mundane (Or So He Thinks)

Following Siesta's death, Kimihiko tries to return to a normal, peaceful life. He tries to bury the past, wanting to leave behind the world of mysteries and danger. He aims for a mundane existence, focusing on school and attempting to avoid any more trouble. But, as anyone familiar with anime tropes knows, a protagonist can never truly escape their destiny! Kimihiko quickly discovers that the world has other plans for him. He is haunted by memories of Siesta and soon finds himself drawn back into the world of intrigue.

New characters enter Kimihiko's life, each with their own connections to Siesta and the mysteries they left behind. He meets Nagisa Natsunagi, a girl who bears a striking resemblance to Siesta and possesses a piece of her heart (literally!). This encounter forces Kimihiko to confront his past and the unresolved feelings he has for Siesta. He also crosses paths with other individuals connected to Siesta's previous cases, each encounter pushing him further down a path he thought he'd left behind.

Characters: Beyond the Mystery

The strength of The Detective Is Already Dead lies not just in its mysteries, but also in its characters. Kimihiko is a relatable protagonist, grappling with grief, loss, and the desire to move on. His interactions with Siesta in flashbacks provide insight into his character development. Siesta, despite being deceased for a significant portion of the story, remains a central figure. Her personality shines through in the memories of Kimihiko and the impact she had on those around her.

Nagisa adds another layer of complexity to the narrative. Her connection to Siesta creates both a sense of familiarity and a hint of mystery. We get to see her own struggles, as she tries to come to terms with the extraordinary circumstances she is thrown into. The supporting cast is also well-developed, each character playing a role in uncovering the truth behind Siesta's death and the secrets surrounding her past. Characters like Yui Saikawa, a famous idol, and Charlotte Arisaka Anderson, a genius programmer, bring unique skills and perspectives to the group.

Animation and Sound: A Visual and Auditory Treat

The animation quality of The Detective Is Already Dead is consistently high. The character designs are visually appealing. The action sequences are fluid and dynamic. The backgrounds are detailed. The overall aesthetic enhances the story's atmosphere. The color palette changes depending on the tone of the scene, enhancing the emotional impact.

The soundtrack is equally impressive. It perfectly complements the on-screen action and adds depth to emotional moments. The opening and ending themes are catchy and memorable. The voice acting is also top-notch. The actors bring the characters to life with their performances. They contribute significantly to the overall enjoyment of the series.

Overall: Is It Worth Watching?

The Detective Is Already Dead is a unique anime. It blends mystery, action, and romance into a compelling narrative. It can be a bit confusing at times due to the nonlinear storytelling. However, it rewards patient viewers with a satisfying conclusion. The characters are engaging, the animation is beautiful, and the music is fantastic.

While some might find the initial premise somewhat unconventional, the anime's execution is well-done. It's a show that explores themes of loss, acceptance, and the enduring power of human connection. If you're looking for an anime that's a bit different from the norm, and enjoy mysteries with a touch of supernatural elements, The Detective Is Already Dead is definitely worth checking out!

Manga/Novel Information

Title: Tantei wa Mou, Shindeiru. (The Detective Is Already Dead)
Publisher: Media Factory (MF Bunko J)
Genre: Mystery, Action, Romance, Supernatural
Author(s): Nigozyu (Author), Umibozu (Illustrator)