Castlevania

Ok I know this adult animated series has been on Netflix for a while now, but I just discovered it a week ago and after binging all three seasons in one week I can’t help but share my verdict.

THIS. SHOW. IS. AMAZING.

My initial interest sparked after watching Netflix’s newest adult animated series, Blood of Zeus. After watching Blood of Zeus and being overtly impressed with the world building, action sequences, and animation, I indulged into some cast and promotional interviews on YouTube. Everyone, from the creators of the show to the voice actors, had mentioned Castlevania as being one of the main factors for the show’s success as the same creative team was used for the animation, Powerhouse Animation Studios.

Now having watched Castlevania, I must admit that this is not only true but also minimized. The characters, world building, voice acting, ANIMATION! You would not believe how good the action sequences are, wow this animation team deserves an Oscar.

Plot Summary

Castlevania is set in the 13th century somewhere in Eastern Europe (I’m guessing Romania for obvious reasons). The story follows three unlikely friends, Trevor Belmont (voiced by Richard Armitage) a monster hunter, Sypha Belnades (voiced by Alejandra Reynoso) a magician, and Alucard (voiced by James Callis) a Dhampir. All three must unite to defeat the infamous Dracula, (voiced by Graham McTavish) who has set out on a quest to destroy all human life.

Both Trevor Belmont and Dracula start out as the main leads of the show. Season one is a short one and sets up the tragic events which lead to Dracula’s human genocide mission and Belmont’s involvement in it, whilst

introducing our other heroes. Season 2 is the overall battle and season 3 is the aftermath. All three seasons were spectacular but my favourite was season 2.

Characters

The whole voice cast does an impeccable job here. You can really tell that all are experienced and have mastered the art of voice acting.

Graham McTavish as Dracula and Jaime Murray as Carmilla were my favourite. Both had very compelling stories and very clear motivations for their decisions. Their roles were reduced substantially in season 3 which made me not enjoy it as much. However, the show still holds strong with lots of goodies to enjoy.

Other notable mentions are Hector (voiced by Theo James) and Isaac (voiced by Adetokumboh M’Cormack). Both characters are incredibly fascinating, especially Isaac, and have such rich backstories and character development that makes it impossible not root for them.

Production

The show is based on a popular video game by the same name, and even though slivers of that are noticeable, the show does a good job at standing on it owns and making it accessible to those, like me, who are not familiar with the game.

Directors, Spencer Wan and Sam & Adam Deats, all do an incredible job with delivering cinematic action sequences. I promise I am not exaggerating. I found myself constantly rewinding scenes and marveling at the spectacular animation, which is a credit to Powerhouse Animation Studios.

Writer and creator Warren Ellis delivers a spectacular script which is both engaging and sophisticated. Sadly but due to conscientious reasons he won’t be returning after season 4. Hopefully, whoever picks up the mantle can level up to his perfect delivery.

Conclusion

I am beyond ecstatic for season 4. This show deserves more recognition than what it gets and I demand for The Emmys to add a best animation series category. Castlevania would, with no surprise, take home that award every year.

If you enjoyed Blood of Zeus you will LOVE this.