If you loved the dark, supernatural action of Ga-Rei-Zero (2008), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 gripping movies and shows that share its intense battles, emotional depth, and supernatural intrigue. Whether you're craving more demon-slaying heroines or tragic backstories, these picks will keep you hooked.

Elfen Lied (2004)
Description: Features a dark and violent narrative with psychological depth, exploring themes of discrimination, trauma, and the duality of human nature. The protagonist's struggle with their own identity and past mirrors the emotional turmoil seen in similar stories.
Fact: The opening theme, 'Lilium,' is sung in Latin and is based on a Gregorian chant. The series was controversial for its graphic violence and nudity, pushing the boundaries of TV anime at the time.


Jujutsu Kaisen (2020)
Description: A modern supernatural action series with a dark tone, focusing on curses, exorcisms, and the psychological toll of power. The dynamic fight scenes and complex character relationships make it a standout in the genre.
Fact: The series' creator, Gege Akutami, was inspired by classic horror manga like 'Bleach' and 'Naruto.' The anime's animation style, particularly the fluid fight sequences, has been praised for its high quality and attention to detail.


Black Butler (2008)
Description: A gothic tale of revenge and supernatural intrigue, featuring a young nobleman and his demonic butler. The series' mix of dark humor, mystery, and action appeals to fans of similarly styled narratives.
Fact: The series is set in an alternate Victorian England, blending historical elements with fantasy. The character Sebastian's name was inspired by a real-life saint known for his unwavering loyalty.


Blue Exorcist (2011)
Description: Follows a protagonist who must confront their demonic heritage while striving to protect humanity. The blend of supernatural action, personal growth, and moral ambiguity makes it a compelling choice for fans of dark fantasy.
Fact: The series is set in a fictional version of Tokyo called 'True Cross Town,' which blends modern architecture with occult symbolism. The anime's soundtrack features a mix of orchestral and rock elements to match its tone.


Psycho-Pass (2012)
Description: A dystopian thriller that explores the psychological and moral dilemmas of a society governed by a system that judges individuals' mental states. The intense action and deep philosophical questions align with the tone of similar dark narratives.
Fact: The series was influenced by classic sci-fi works like 'Minority Report' and 'Blade Runner.' The Sibyl System's concept was inspired by real-world discussions about predictive policing and AI governance.


Attack on Titan (2013)
Description: A high-stakes story filled with brutal battles, tragic backstories, and a relentless exploration of survival against overwhelming odds. The series' grim atmosphere and complex character arcs resonate with fans of dark, action-packed narratives.
Fact: The Titans' designs were inspired by creator Hajime Isayama's experiences with drunk patrons at an internet café where he worked. The series' popularity led to a global phenomenon, including live-action adaptations and merchandise.


Tokyo Ghoul (2014)
Description: Centers around a protagonist who undergoes a drastic transformation, leading to an internal conflict between their humanity and monstrous instincts. The series delves into themes of identity, survival, and the blurred lines between good and evil.
Fact: The manga's author, Sui Ishida, originally intended for the story to be a one-shot. The series' iconic mask designs were inspired by various art styles, including traditional Japanese theater.


Akame ga Kill! (2014)
Description: A brutal action series where characters face life-and-death situations with no guaranteed survival. The story's willingness to kill off major characters and its exploration of corruption and justice align with dark, high-stakes narratives.
Fact: The manga's title character, Akame, was originally intended to be the main protagonist before the focus shifted to Tatsumi. The series' Night Raid group is named after a real-life WWII British special operations unit.


Seraph of the End (2015)
Description: A post-apocalyptic tale where humanity is enslaved by vampires, focusing on themes of revenge, loyalty, and the cost of power. The series' dark setting and intense battles align with the tone of similar action-packed stories.
Fact: The manga was originally titled 'Owari no Seraph,' which translates to 'Seraph of the End.' The anime's opening theme, 'X.U.,' was performed by the band SawanoHiroyuki[nZk], known for their work on other popular anime soundtracks.


Goblin Slayer (2018)
Description: A gritty and violent fantasy series that doesn't shy away from the horrors of battle. The protagonist's single-minded focus on eradicating goblins and the dark tone of the story make it a fitting recommendation.
Fact: The series sparked controversy for its graphic depiction of violence, particularly in the first episode. The light novel's author, Kumo Kagyu, is known for his love of tabletop RPGs, which influenced the story's structure.
