The second installment of the legendary The Garden of Sinners (Kara no Kyoukai) series, A Study in Murder - Part 1, is now available to stream on both Crunchyroll and Amazon. Produced by ufotable—the studio now synonymous with the high-octane spectacle of Demon Slayer—this film showcases the early, atmospheric roots of their signature digital-cinematography style.
Set in an achronological timeline, this chapter serves as a crucial bridge in the overarching mystery surrounding Shiki Ryougi, a woman possessing the "Mystic Eyes of Death Perception." Unlike the supernatural action-heavy entries that follow, this installment leans heavily into psychological suspense and urban noir, exploring the fractured identity of its protagonist through a cold, analytical lens.
For those unfamiliar with the franchise, The Garden of Sinners is an essential pillar of modern dark fantasy. Adapted from Type-Moon’s light novels, the series is renowned for its philosophical depth, haunting score by Yuki Kajiura, and a narrative structure that rewards attentive viewers who piece together the timeline across its various chapters.
This release also includes the original theatrical claymation short, a rare stylistic departure that preceded the film during its initial run. Whether you are a long-time fan of the Nasuverse or a newcomer looking for a mature, dialogue-driven mystery, this chapter provides a vital look at the foundations of ufotable’s most influential work.
With both the original Japanese audio and English dub now accessible, the series is easier to approach than ever. Given its status as a cult classic with a 7.76 rating on MyAnimeList, the film remains a definitive example of how to blend urban crime with metaphysical horror.
