After the amazing success of the R-rated superhero film Deadpool back in 2016, more and more studios have begun to realize that this generation of adults are more than happy to watch well written, mature content. Enter Netflix’s Castlevania, a gripping animated series by Adi Shanker, based on the 1989 game, Castlevania III: Dracula’s Curse.
Despite being only four episodes long, the series does a fantastic job of introducing new comers to the series and showing people what the world of Castlevania is all about. Set in the Romanian country of Wallachia in the 1400’s, the story begins with a young woman seeking out and falling in love with the infamous Dracula. She is later burnt at the stake after a local bishop accuses her of witchcraft. As you can no doubt imagine, Dracula is not too pleased with the situation and announces to the citizens of Wallachia that they have one year to make their peace, after which everyone in the country will die at his hands. One year passes and Dracula’s armies rain down upon the country forcing reluctant hero, Trevor Belmont, to step up and save the day.
One of the first things you’ll notice about Castlevania is its gorgeous artstyle. Inspired by classics such as Ninja Scroll and Berserk, the art style is a nice balance between realistic and japanese anime/manga. The level of detail really adds a sense of uniqueness to the series. With this amazing detail, the many fight scenes are that much more engrossing, whether it’s Trevor fighting other people or the grotesque monsters. Watching the bloody bits and pieces of demons explode across the screen ends up encapsulating you. I couldn’t take my eyes off the screen.
The series’ soundtrack marries the art style like maple syrup on pancakes. Eerie pieces of soundscape fit the dark and dreary theme throughout the show. Mixing synth sounds and string instruments draws you in to each scene. Unfortunately, we don’t get to hear a certain classic piece from the game series, but luckily you’re in for a treat in the next season.
The first season of Castlevania does a lot for the viewers in just under two hours. You’re introduced to the world, the main heroes, the main antagonist and answering most questions anyone new to the series would have. To top it all off, it leaves you wanting more. Thankfully, season 2 is already available on Netflix (for those of you who can’t wait for the physical release) with a whopping eight episodes! I would highly recommend this series if you’re a fan of anime, video games or someone who likes a classic horror story retold.