The highly anticipated anime adaptation of Naru Narumi’s manga series, Watari-kun’s * Is About to Collapse* (渡くんの××が崩壊寸前, Watari-kun no xx ga Hōkaisunzen), has released its first promotional video, offering a glimpse into the chaotic and comedic world of Naoto Watari and the unusual circumstances that disrupt his ordinary life. This article delves into everything you need to know about the upcoming anime, from its plot and characters to the staff and release details.
Anime Adaptation Overview
Watari-kun’s * Is About to Collapse* is slated to premiere in July 2025 on Tokyo MX, BS NTV, and other channels. The anime is produced by Staple Entertainment and directed by Takashi Naoya, promising a faithful adaptation of the manga’s unique blend of drama, romantic comedy, and thriller elements.
Production Staff
The anime boasts a talented team of creators:
- Director: Takashi Naoya (Am I Actually the Strongest?, Real Girl, Übel Blatt)
- Assistant Director: Matsuo Asami (Blue Exorcist: Kyoto Saga, Gintama episode director)
- Series Composition: Tatsuya Takahashi (World’s End Harem, Eromanga Sensei)
- Scriptwriters: Tatsuya Takahashi, Takashi Naoya, Tetsuya Yamada (Am I Actually the Strongest?, Übel Blatt)
- Character Designer: Shōko Yasuda (Am I Actually the Strongest?, Happy Sugar Life)
- Chief Animation Directors: Shōko Yasuda, Yukiyo Komito (Am I Actually the Strongest?), Toshimitsu Kobayashi (Fate/stay night), Taeko Ōgi (Übel Blatt)
- Costume Design: Nonoka Suzuki (Tales of Wedding Rings 2nd key animation)
- Prop Design: Chie Yamazaki (Lagrange – The Flower of Rin-ne special effects)
- Animation Production: Staple Entertainment
Cast
The main cast includes:
- Naoto Watari: Voiced by Shūichirō Umeda
- Satsuki Tachibana: Voiced by Yumika Yano
- Yukari Ishihara: Voiced by Yurie Igoma
Manga Origins
Written and illustrated by Naru Narumi, Watari-kun’s * Is About to Collapse* was initially serialized in Kadokawa Shoten’s Young Ace magazine from August 2014 to June 2015. It later moved to Kodansha’s Monthly Young Magazine, where it ran from November 2015 to September 2023. The manga’s chapters have been compiled into sixteen tankōbon volumes. Kodansha USA has licensed the manga for digital release in English.
Plot Synopsis
Naoto Watari’s life took a tragic turn two years prior to the story’s beginning when his parents passed away, leaving him to care for his younger sister, Suzushiro “Suzu” Watari. They move in with their aunt, and Naoto becomes fiercely protective of Suzu, earning him the reputation of having a “sister complex.” He avoids clubs and social activities to prioritize her well-being.
However, Naoto’s life is thrown into disarray when Satsuki Tachibana, a childhood friend turned enemy (?), reappears as his classmate. Her arrival marks the beginning of a series of chaotic events that threaten to unravel Naoto’s carefully constructed world. The story explores the complex relationships between Naoto, Satsuki, and other intriguing characters, blending romance, comedy, and suspense.
Characters
- Naoto Watari: The protagonist of the story. After losing his parents, he becomes the guardian of his younger sister, Suzu. He is overprotective of her, leading to his “sister complex” label.
- Satsuki Tachibana: A childhood friend of Naoto who reappears as his classmate. Their relationship is complicated, with elements of both friendship and animosity.
- Yukari Ishihara: Another key character who enters Naoto’s life, further complicating his relationships and challenging his worldview.
- Suzushiro “Suzu” Watari: Naoto’s younger sister, whom he deeply cares for and feels responsible for protecting.
Themes
The series delves into various themes, including:
- Family: The importance of family bonds and the lengths one will go to protect loved ones.
- Responsibility: Naoto’s sense of responsibility towards his sister and the burdens it places on him.
- Relationships: The complexities of human relationships, including friendship, love, and rivalry.
- Self-discovery: Naoto’s journey of self-discovery as he navigates the challenges of adolescence and changing relationships.
- Mental Health: The manga explores themes of social phobia and anxiety through some of the characters.
What to Expect from the Anime
Based on the source material and the production team involved, viewers can anticipate:
- A compelling story: The anime is expected to faithfully adapt the manga’s intriguing plot, filled with unexpected twists and turns.
- Well-developed characters: The characters are complex and relatable, each with their own motivations and flaws.
- Humor and drama: The anime will likely balance comedic moments with serious and dramatic elements, creating a captivating viewing experience.
- High-quality animation: With Staple Entertainment at the helm, the animation is expected to be visually appealing and well-executed.
Where to Watch
As the anime is scheduled to premiere in July 2025, specific streaming platforms have yet to be announced. However, it is likely that popular anime streaming services such as Crunchyroll and Funimation will acquire the rights to stream the series. Check these platforms closer to the release date for availability in your region.
Additional Information
- The manga has also inspired a live-action television series that premiered in 2015, with subsequent specials in 2016 and 2019, and a second season in 2020.
Conclusion
Watari-kun’s * Is About to Collapse* promises to be a captivating anime adaptation of a popular manga series. With its engaging story, well-developed characters, and talented production team, this anime is definitely one to watch out for in July 2025. Stay tuned for more updates and announcements as the premiere date approaches.
