Should You Watch Captivated, by You?#
If you are looking for a story that challenges the pressure of conformity, Captivated, by You (also known as Muchū sa, Kimi ni.) is a compelling choice. Set in a school environment, the story focuses on the intersection of two very different personalities: Hayashi, a student who is unapologetically true to himself—spending his time counting stairs and drying sweet potatoes on the balcony—and Nikaidou, who has meticulously crafted a gloomy and dour facade to keep others at a distance.
While most of the student body views Nikaidou as a bad omen, the plot centers on the gradual peeling away of this mask. It is a refreshing take on the school genre, focusing on authenticity and the courage to be seen for who you really are.
If you’re ready to dive in, you can watch the anime on Prime Video.
Is the Anime Finished?#
When asking if Captivated, by You is “finished,” it is important to distinguish between the anime and the source material. The anime adaptation debuted on August 21, 2025, and is based on the manga by Yama Wayama, which originally debuted as a doujin at Comitia 127 in February 2019.
Because the anime is an adaptation of a pre-existing manga, viewers who want to ensure they have the complete story or see how the original author envisioned the conclusion should consider the manga. If you prefer the written word or want to see if there is content beyond the anime’s scope, you can buy the Captivated, by You manga.
Audience and Appeal#
This series is best suited for viewers who enjoy character-driven narratives and school-themed stories that avoid typical tropes in favor of psychological depth. The primary appeal lies in the contrast between Hayashi’s guileless nature and Nikaidou’s carefully constructed persona. It appeals to anyone who has ever felt the need to wear a “mask” to fit into a conformist society.
If you enjoy these kinds of thoughtful adaptations, consider supporting our research so we can keep bringing you these guides! You can support us on Ko-fi.
Recommended Watch and Read Order#
Depending on your goals, there are a few ways to experience this story. You can refer to the relationship tree on this page for a visual breakdown of the connections between the works.
Release Order#
For those who want to experience the series as it was released to the general public:
- Captivated, by You (Anime) - Released August 2025.
Completionist Order#
For those who want every detail and the original context:
- Captivated, by You (Manga) - Start with the 2019 original publication.
- Captivated, by You (Anime) - Follow up with the 2025 adaptation to see the characters brought to life.
The “Source Material” Path#
If you prefer to let the anime introduce you to the world first and then dive deeper:
- Captivated, by You (Anime)
- Captivated, by You (Manga) - Continue here to fill in any gaps or read beyond the anime’s conclusion.
Final Thoughts#
Whether you are drawn in by the eccentricities of Hayashi or the mystery of Nikaidou, Captivated, by You offers a unique perspective on high school social dynamics. Beyond the show and manga, you can also pick up official merchandise to show your support for the series.
Captivated, by You • manga • 2019-02 (doujin at Comitia 127)
└─(adaptation)→ Captivated, by You • anime • 2025-08-21
