Why Creators of This Year’s Funniest Anime Are Surprised by Its Popularity

Of 2024’s breakout anime hits, My Deer Nokotan stands out as the most comical and bizarre, to the extent that even the creators are puzzled by its widespread appeal.

Although the anime series My Deer Nokotan premiered in July 2024, it became evident well before then that this show would capture audiences’ attention. The promotional campaign for this outrageous comedy, revolving around a top-performing student who forges a friendship with a classmate revealed to be a woodland creature-human hybrid, embraced its inherent absurdity.

Trailers showcased the anarchic animation style produced by Wit Studio, featuring an entire hour of Noko dancing—because, why not?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GHPpRX9jpYk

DOOR vs DEER | My Deer Friend Nokotan (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GHPpRX9jpYk)

However, the show’s producers were somewhat taken aback by the strong connection audiences have developed with Noko and Torako, leaving them in a state of confusion.

“I was quite surprised by the international success of the trailer. My Deer Friend Nokotan is a rather peculiar anime—or perhaps a weird anime—and it seems to present a uniquely different vibe compared to American comedies,” director Masahiko Ohta stated in an interview with Anime News Network.

Promotional producer Aya Okano provides an interesting perspective: the concept itself is inherently humorous. “I believe it’s mainly due to deer being universally recognized creatures. They are a true comedic goldmine,” he noted.

“With their beautiful appearance and facial expressions that often leave us guessing their thoughts, there appear to be endless opportunities for humor. I think many people find the mix of ‘deer and beautiful girls’ to be both amusing and outrageous.”

Regardless of the reasons, the outcome has been nothing short of successful. You can enjoy the complete series of My Deer Friend Nokotan on Crunchyroll. Don’t forget to check our upcoming anime list for more intriguing titles on the horizon.

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