"Devil May Cry" – A Stylish and Brutal Adaptation That Honors the Source

Netflix is continuing its successful trajectory in video game adaptations with the new adult animated series Devil May Cry. The series is inspired by the renowned Japanese video game franchise developed by Capcom. Showrunner Adi Shankar delivers an adrenaline-pumping journey full of gore that pays tribute to Capcom's iconic action series.

Dante (voiced by Johnny Yong Bosch) serves as the series' central character with his silver hair and quick wit as a demon hunter whose bravado hides his profound emotional wounds. Dante, who lost his father Sparda to demon violence, has dedicated his life to demon hunting but gets embroiled in a conflict that surpasses any typical monster battle. A malevolent group seeks to destroy the barrier between human and demon worlds, while Dante unknowingly possesses the means to their triumph or downfall.

The story becomes much darker when Vergil, Dante's mysterious twin brother, voiced by Robbie Daymond, makes his appearance. As a man who combines stoicism and discipline with an insatiable thirst for power, Vergil becomes Dante's enemy, the embodiment of Dante's potentially dark nature. The series reaches its peak through the ideological and physical battle between Dante and Vergil, which mirrors the best parts of the games.

Next, we encounter Lady (voiced by Scout Taylor-Compton), a human demon hunter who holds a personal grudge. She uses her marksmanship and warrior skills to ground the supernatural elements while functioning as Dante's ally and sometimes his adversary. The humorous exchanges between the characters and their tentative alliance provide depth while adding levity to the chaotic storyline.

Stylish action remains the core expectation from Devil May Cry fans, and this series delivers abundantly. The game's combat sequences deliver stunning, fluid animation combined with balletic gunplay and sword-swinging chaos while honoring the iconic "style" system. The choreography of each fight sequence stands out as meticulously planned, while Dante's acrobatic moves and confident quips transform every battle into a showstopper.

The series successfully embodies the franchise-defining gothic-noir visual style. The environments feature moody lighting, and the character designs remain loyal to their game origins while introducing a grittier cinematic feel. A pulse-pounding soundtrack blending metal riffs and eerie orchestral pieces creates an atmospheric experience throughout the show.

Devil May Cry delivers the perfect fan experience through its rapid pace, brutal fights, stylish presentation, and unexpected emotional depth. The series brings Dante, Vergil, and Lady to life with such care and intensity that longtime fans will enjoy it while new viewers may feel overwhelmed by the complex lore. 

Exquisite combat sequences and enthralling drama demonstrate that Devil May Cry extends beyond its signature action to explore profound themes of destiny and family alongside the ageless struggle between chaos and order.

Final Grade: B+

All episodes of Devil May Cry are available to stream now.