Netflix streams Japanese sci‑fi series 'Human Vapor' worldwide

Netflix launched the eight‑episode Japanese series "Human Vapor" on 2 July. The show adapts Toho’s 1960 cult film, presenting a librarian who gains the ability to turn into vapor and uses it for bank robberies. A co‑production between Japan and South Korea, the series follows the vapor‑powered criminal, journalist Kyoko and inspector Kenji as they pursue him across a nation terrified by the mysterious murders. The final episode reveals Kyoko’s hidden control over the "Human Vapor" and ends on an ambiguous scene suggesting she may inherit his powers, leaving the story open for a possible second season.

The launch marks Netflix’s first collaboration with the historic Toho studio, expanding its catalogue of Japanese speculative‑fiction series and drawing attention from global audiences intrigued by the blend of sci‑fi, horror and police thriller elements.