“CITY The Animation,” the highly anticipated anime adaptation of Keiichi Arawi’s eccentric manga, has captured audiences with its unique brand of slice-of-life comedy set in a not-so-ordinary city. As the series progresses, fans eagerly await each new installment, and Episode 8, which aired on August 25, 2025, delivered a delightful blend of burgeoning romance and the signature quirky humor the show is known for.
What is “CITY The Animation”?
“CITY The Animation” is an anime television series produced by Kyoto Animation, known for its high-quality animation and distinctive style. The series premiered on July 7, 2025, marking Kyoto Animation’s first non-sequel anime since the 2019 arson attack and its second adaptation of a Keiichi Arawi manga, following the 2011 adaptation of Nichijou. Many fans and critics consider “CITY” a “spiritual successor” to Nichijou, owing to its similar comedic tone and focus on the unpredictable ordinary lives of its diverse cast of characters.
The narrative unfolds in a city aptly named City, where penniless college student Midori Nagumo and her friends, along with a host of other peculiar residents, navigate their daily lives. The series is lauded for its ability to extract humor from the mundane and often awkward aspects of human interaction, blending laughter, emotional moments, and unexpected events into an engaging viewing experience.
Episode 8: “Summer in the City” and Blossoming Affections
Released on August 25, 2025, “CITY The Animation – Episode 8” delves into the theme of “Summer in the City,” exploring the anxieties and wholesome awkwardness of crushes and romantic attractions among various characters. The episode skillfully weaves together several storylines, highlighting the endearing, often comical, struggles of its ensemble cast as they grapple with their feelings.
Tanabe’s Enduring Crush
One prominent segment in Episode 8 focuses on Ms. Tanabe, a character known for her inherited wealth and somewhat socially inept demeanor. The episode reveals her long-standing crush on Tatsuta Adatara, the eldest son of the Adatara family, a sentiment she has harbored since their school days. A humorous moment arises when her butler, Hotaka, informs her that it wouldn’t be inappropriate for her to initiate an invitation, playing into the broader comedic portrayal of Tanabe’s social eccentricities. The segment concludes with a misunderstanding regarding Tatsuta’s favorite food, setting the stage for future outrageous developments.
The Officer’s Romantic Dilemma
Another highlight of Episode 8 involves a police officer, whose name is implied to be “Honkan” (literally “Officer Officer” in English). The episode features a “masterfully choreographed and scored scene” depicting his internal struggle to resist the inherent charms of the perpetually drowsy Riko Izumi. His efforts are driven by his established crush on Riko’s older sister, Wako Izumi, creating a comical internal conflict as he attempts to suppress the affection Riko naturally evokes. This segment underscores the series’ ability to find humor in personal dilemmas and awkward social situations.
The Enduring Appeal of “CITY”
“CITY The Animation” has been praised for its faithfulness to Keiichi Arawi’s distinctive art style and comedic timing. Critics and fans note that the anime excels at making fun of the uncomfortable and distressing parts of life, presenting them in a lighthearted and endearing manner. The series’ opening theme, “Hello” by Riho Furui, and ending theme, “Lucky” by TOMOO, further contribute to its charm, with music composed by the instrumental band Piranhans.
With its unpredictable yet ordinary life narratives and a cast of not-quite-ordinary people, “CITY The Animation” continues to deliver exciting and relatable content, making each episode a welcome dive into its unique world.
