Crunchyroll is set to air the new anime series 'Smoking Behind the Supermarket With You' this summer. The series is adapted from a manga that originally began as a webcomic on Twitter (now X).
According to Polygon, the story centers on Sasaki, an overworked forty-something salaryman. Sasaki faces constant pressure to perform and daily berating from his boss, leaving him with little room for joy.
Sasaki finds his primary comfort in Yamada, a young cashier at his local supermarket. Polygon notes that Yamada's presence provides Sasaki with a state of bliss that is even better than a long cigarette drag.
A complex connection
The narrative takes a turn when Yamada is missing from her station one night, leading Sasaki to encounter her alternate identity during a smoke break. In a more relaxed attire, she introduces herself as Tayama, a punky, cigarette-addicted character.
While the age difference between the characters might suggest a typical romance, Polygon reports the relationship is more complex. The outlet describes the bond as 'a kind of platonic energy where they each allow the other to feel like they truly belong.'
Despite their differences, the two characters connect through shared habits. The series explores how their interactions blossom beyond their initial mutual appreciation for smoking.
