Watching Der Landarzt feels like falling headfirst into a fever dream. So basically, classic Kafka. I haven’t actually read the original story, but as a big fan of Kafka’s general vibe, this short animation absolutely nails what I imagine his writing feels like. It is surreal, disorienting, and deeply uncomfortable in a way that’s oddly satisfying. The animation itself is experimental and unnerving, in the best way possible. It gives off a mix of Salad Fingers energy (if you somehow don't know what salad finger is please look it up on yt), a touch of Junji Ito, and something else entirely unique. As of right nowI can't exactly compare it to anything and be 100% satisfied with my decision. It’s not horror, but it crawls under your skin and sits there.

One of my favorite things about Kafka’s work, and what this animation captures so well, is the sense that you’re missing something. Like there’s meaning here, but it’s just out of reach. You feel a bit dumb watching it, but in a way that makes you want to think harder, not walk away.

It might not be for everyone, but come on, it literally says it’s based on a Franz Kafka story. What did you expect? For what it is, an animation of Kafka’s story, it does a great job. It really captures the essence of what Kafka feels like to me. Not my favorite anime but I will show this to my sister who hates Kafka and gave me all her books by him XD