Mayumi is a young girl suffering from a crippling mental illness that leaves her unable to make any decisions. After numerous caregivers fail, her wealthy family hires Mitsu, a mysterious woman who constantly whispers instructions into Mayumi’s ear to guide her every movement.
Based on a story from New Voices in the Dark , this segment brings back the series' recurring antagonist, the nail-chewing boy Soichi. Itou Junji: Maniac - Episode 12
Episode 12 of Junji Ito Maniac: Japanese Tales of the Macabre serves as the anthology’s finale, featuring two distinct stories: and "Soichi's Beloved Pet" . Part 1: Whispering Woman Mayumi is a young girl suffering from a
This segment received mixed reactions; some fans on Reddit find Soichi's repetitive, obnoxious behavior frustrating, while others appreciate the lighter, "wholesome" contrast it provides to the darker segments of the series. Series Conclusion Episode 12 of Junji Ito Maniac: Japanese Tales
Mitsu is living with an abusive boyfriend who eventually beats her to death. Despite being dead, her spirit remains with Mayumi, continuing to whisper instructions that eventually lead the girl to commit a violent act of revenge against the boyfriend.
Reviewers note the story explores themes of domestic violence and the blurred lines between mental health struggles and supernatural intervention. Part 2: Soichi's Beloved Pet