Review of Ghost Hunt

Is it me or does horror themed Anime get a bad rep? Usually it conjures up pictures of ultra-violence, a dark and macabre plot, horrific demons, and a setting out of a Lovecraft piece... or a high school. If most of the vicious and mean-spirited horror series have you reaching for the remote or a sick bag, fear not- I have something nice and mild for you. "Ghost Hunt" comes to us in the genre of occult detective more than just straight horror. The plot revolves around a team of paranormal investigators called "Shibuya Psychic Research" (SPR) and their cases of mysterious strange goings on. Thinkmore Ghostbusters than Scooby-Doo. They are professional, using techniques that range from the cameras and electronics you see on "Ghost Hunters/Adventurers" to occult and religious strategies to solve each mystery. The subjects of each investigation can range from a doll house, to a church, to a creepy mansion, to (of course) a high school.

Many unique and colorful characters comprise this team, each with their own expertise, and you never really get the same story or solution twice making it a refreshing go around each time. We get introduced to our main character, a school girl named Mai Taniyama who stumbles upon SPR accidentally one day and soon joins the team, becoming the viewers doorway into the plot. The main investigator, Kazuya Shibuya, is a young, bright, and professional paranormal expert who seems to channel Jack Webb in the way he goes about things. Side characters include a priest, a shrine maiden, a monk, an electronics expert, and a psychic medium who all prove invaluable in their contributions, be it towards the plot or comic relief.

Starting off mild at first with a few creepy stories, the series then dives into a much a darker and more sinister pair of cases towards the end, improving the show with each new tale. With 8 stories totaling 25 episodes, it's well paced and can make for a decent binge or a nice casual viewing experience. The art is good (especially with the spooky stuff) the sound is quite effective, and the soundtrack adds to the scenes. I especially enjoyed the opening music, it's very Halloween-y. Sub vs. Dub is a bit of a toss-up, but I recommend the Sub.

I walked away from this show actually wanting more. Thankfully the Manga is still going. As for what we got, a nice blend of mystery and horror with some genuinely creepy moments. Might not satisfy the hardcore gore crowd, but it's an enjoyable watch for those who want a little fright to their Anime line-up. 7/10. Cheers!