Itou Junji: Maniac - Episode 12 -

Adapted from Fragments of Horror , this segment is often cited by critics from Ready Steady Cut and Den of Geek as the stronger, more psychological half of the finale.

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 Itou Junji: Maniac - Episode 12

Soichi’s family adopts a stray cat named Colon. Jealous of the attention the pet receives, Soichi attempts to "curse" the cat or turn it into a monster to scare his family. Adapted from Fragments of Horror , this segment

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. Jealous of the attention the pet receives, Soichi

His antics consistently backfire in a darkly comedic fashion. The cat eventually undergoes a bizarre, supernatural transformation—possibly due to Soichi's meddling—that leaves him injured and comically defeated.

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

Based on a story from New Voices in the Dark , this segment brings back the series' recurring antagonist, the nail-chewing boy Soichi.