BEM: Become Human

BEM: Become Human, released in 2020, serves as a cinematic continuation of the 2019 reboot series BEM, which itself is a modern reimagining of the classic 1968 supernatural horror anime Humanoid Monster Bem. Produced by Production I.G, the film shifts the narrative focus toward the protagonist’s search for his own identity and humanity, grounding the supernatural premise in a more philosophical exploration of what it means to coexist with society.

The film was directed by Hiroshi Ikehata, who aimed to synthesize the dark, atmospheric roots of the original series with more contemporary animation techniques. By focusing on the emotional toll of the characters' isolation, the production team sought to elevate the franchise from its monster-of-the-week origins to a character-driven drama. While it was received by fans as a polished technical achievement, it remains a niche entry primarily appreciated by those already invested in the tonal shifts of the 2019 reboot.