Devil May Cry: S1 REVIEW & S2 Announcement
Netflix’s animated adaptation of Devil May Cry, produced by Adi Shankar, arrives with high expectations from fans of the iconic Capcom video game franchise. Known for its stylish combat, gothic flair, and complex characters, Devil May Cry has long been considered ripe for a screen adaptation. In light of debuting #4 on a global top 10 list by proxy of 5.3 million viewers, Netflix has announced the series will return for a second season. So what do I think about the first season?
During my last review of a Netflix original anime (Castlevania: Nocturne) I knew nothing about the source material going in. To contrast this time, I reached out and chatted with a fan of the IP whom I implored to watch DMC so that we can discuss it together. For the raw and uncut talk we had click on the video below:
If you don’t have about an hour to spare to watch two nerds rant and rave, I encourage you to read this summed up version of the same discussion…
From a technical perspective, the animation quality is commendable. Action scenes are crisp, dynamic, and often thrilling. The choreography stays true to the game’s high-octane roots, and the visual style leans into the gothic aesthetic that has defined the franchise. However, impressive visuals alone cannot carry a narrative, and it’s in the storytelling that this adaptation falters.
The writing often feels unfocused, with inconsistent tone and characterization. Attempts to blend humor with darker themes result in a narrative identity crisis—the show can’t decide if it wants to be a gritty demon-slaying epic or a quippy, self-aware parody. The humor varies wildly in effectiveness, ranging from clever one-liners to dialogue that feels out of step with the characters and world.
A significant point of contention lies in the voice acting. The choice to use the same actor for both Dante and another key character (widely recognized by fans of the franchise) is jarring and distracting. While the actor’s performance is technically strong, the vocal similarity undercuts the individuality of each character.
Character portrayal is another area of concern. Fans may find the depiction of central figures like Lady and Sparda (Dante’s father) unrecognizable from their game counterparts. Lady, in particular, is written with a pessimism that clashes with her established personality, while Sparda’s presence—so vital to the mythos—is minimized and rendered sarcastically.
The show’s reinterpretation of the events from Devil May Cry 3 makes bold narrative choices, but some are likely to divide audiences. Core themes of family, humanity, and identity feel diluted. The exclusion of major characters and alteration of key dynamics may leave longtime fans feeling alienated, while newcomers may struggle with the show’s narrative pacing and lack of cohesive character arcs.
Originality is another missed opportunity. Rather than introducing fresh elements, the series leans heavily on recognizable game references—recycled demon designs, iconic weapons, and familiar combat mechanics are featured prominently, often at the expense of innovation. This choice may appeal to nostalgia, but it limits the show’s ability to stand on its own.
One bright spot is the character of Enzo, who emerges as a fan-favorite with a grounded, memorable performance. Moments like a well-placed reference to another Capcom property (Resident Evil) show that the writers understand how to integrate Easter eggs with charm. However, other elements—such as a character likened to a comedic sidekick—feel forced and overly plot-convenient.
Music, often a signature component of Devil May Cry, is another area where the series misses the mark. Choices like a censored radio-edit for the intro and mismatched songs during emotional moments diminish the atmosphere. There’s a sense that more original, bespoke music—tailored to the tone and themes of the show—could have significantly elevated the viewing experience.
Ultimately, Netflix’s Devil May Cry is an ambitious reimagining that delivers exciting action and occasional sparks of promise. However, inconsistent writing, underdeveloped characters, and a reliance on fan-service over originality keep it from achieving its full potential. For longtime fans, it may be worth watching with tempered expectations. For newcomers, the series might serve as a stylized, if uneven, introduction to a beloved franchise.
Final Verdict: A visually stylish adaptation that stumbles in its storytelling. While not without its highlights, this first season leaves room—and hope—for meaningful growth in future installments.
