novoten

At first glance this draws on the slightly worn-out theme of an alternative version of modern Japan where not everything is as it should be. But on the second viewing, I was captivated by the amazing characters who took hold of me and wouldn't let me go. The charismatic Hei/Li, the ethereal Yin, and the determined Kirihara drew me into this world of contractors, puppets, and the Syndicate, and Darker Than Black turned out to be very pleasant and surprisingly intimate sci-fi. It works both in terms of the long-term development of characters and in the side storylines of the individual enemies, and even though the finale satisfied me more than enough, my excitement for the next series is in full swing.

Victorian England spreads its angelic wings, there is a mysterious atmosphere in the Phantomhive household, and Ciel, along with his faithful Sebastian, sets out to investigate some vile wrongdoing in a Sherlockian manner. I was hooked after a few minutes, and excited after the first episode. Black Butler combines subtle mystique with mythological characters of diverse origins, and the atmosphere of constrained yet corrupted Britain is a perfectly fitting setting. When various styles of humor are added by the supporting characters (Tanaka is clearly the standout for me), the series becomes an inconspicuous gem of anime.

Now I've had the time of my life..