Series & First Appearance
Mei Misaki is a character from the anime and manga series "Another," created by Yukito Ayatsuji. She first appears in Episode 1 of the anime adaptation, which aired in 2012, and is a prominent figure throughout the series. The story is illustrated by Hiro Kiyohara in the manga version.
Profile at a Glance
Mei Misaki is a 15-year-old student attending Yomiyama North Middle School in the third year, third class. Initially portrayed as an eerie and isolated girl, she is often regarded as someone who "does not exist" by her peers. Mei possesses a unique ability relating to her left eye, which she keeps covered with an eye patch; this eye allows her to see the "color of death," signifying impending doom or the presence of those who have passed away.
Personality & Motivations
Mei is characterized by her mysterious and reclusive nature. Though she appears emotionally detached, she possesses a quiet determination and a keen sense of observance. Coping with her isolation, she often engages in sketching, an activity that mirrors her inner turmoil and fascination with the macabre. Mei exhibits a marked sense of seriousness yet occasionally expresses a dark sense of humor. Her primary motivation revolves around understanding her powers and the curse that plagues her class, which drives her to seek the truth behind her existence and the tragedy enveloping her school life.
Abilities / Powers
Mei’s standout ability is her "doll’s eye," which allows her to perceive both the living and those who have died, as well as the "color of death" that surrounds individuals about to meet their fate. This ability grants her insight into life-and-death situations but also serves as a heavy burden. The limitations of her power manifest in her emotional struggles and social isolation, stemming from the fear her ability instills in others. Over the course of the series, Mei learns to confront her destiny and navigate her perceptions, evolving from a fearful girl to a person who confronts the realities of life and death.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Key plot points that shape Mei’s character include her initial meeting with Kouchi Sakakibara, who becomes her closest ally. As the narrative unfolds, Mei’s backstory is gradually revealed, showcasing her family’s connections to the school tragedy and the way her abilities influence her interactions with her peers. A pivotal moment occurs when her true nature and the history of the curse besetting their class come to the forefront, forcing Mei to confront the specters of her past. The climactic arc delves deeper into her struggles, ultimately pushing her towards a courageous resolution in the face of the harrowing curse.
Notable Relationships
Mei shares a complex relationship with Kouchi Sakakibara, who becomes instrumental in unraveling the mysteries of her powers and the death curse. Their bond evolves from distrust to deep companionship, symbolizing hope in an otherwise grim environment. She also has a strained relationship with her classmates, who both fear and shun her due to her supposed "non-existence." Additionally, her connections to family, particularly her deceased twin sister, add layers to her character, highlighting feelings of guilt and longing.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One memorable scene occurs in Episode 5 when Mei states, “I can see it… the color of death” while illustrating her power, showcasing the weight of her gift and its impact on her psyche. This line emphasizes her sense of isolation while simultaneously appealing to the viewer’s sense of intrigue and dread regarding her abilities. Another impactful moment is during a confrontation with her classmates, where Mei’s emotional turmoil surfaces, leading her to question the nature of life, death, and her place among the living.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
In terms of production notes, Mei Misaki has garnered significant fanfare, securing a favorable spot on many popularity polls and rankings, with a total of 7,645 member favorites. Her character design, marked by the eye patch and somber clothing, aligns with the series’ overall theme of horror and the macabre. Mei’s character is voiced by Kana Hanazawa in the Japanese version and Megan Shipman in the English dub, both of whom bring a nuanced interpretation to her enigmatic nature. The combination of her distinctive design and haunting abilities has cemented Mei’s status as an iconic figure in the anime horror genre.
Fans of "Another," and those drawn to characters with dark and intricate backstories, often resonate with Mei Misaki, celebrating her as a symbol of resilience within despair. Her story serves as a poignant reminder of the intersection between life, death, and the pursuit of truth in a cursed reality.
