Dance with Devils

"Dance with Devils" is an anime television series that aired in 2015, produced by Funimation, a popular American entertainment company known for distributing foreign content, particularly anime.

"Dance with Devils" is a unique blend of romance, suspense, and supernatural elements with a captivating musical theatrical style woven into its story. It’s a show where the protagonist often finds herself involved in mystical, captivating musical numbers filled with intrigue and enchantment. The narrative of the show is primarily driven by the musical aspect, making it a refreshing combination of music and anime that gives you a 'Broadway in Japan' feel that you might not have experienced before in anime form.

The story revolves around an average, yet distinctively strong-willed high school girl, Ritsuka Tachibana. Ritsuka leads a relatively normal life until it is suddenly turned upside-down when her mother is brutally attacked and kidnapped by unknown forces. This event thrusts Ritsuka into a world she never knew existed, one filled with devils, vampires, and other supernatural beings.

In the ensuing chaos, Ritsuka finds herself under protection by the handsome, yet mysterious Student Council of Shiko Academy. Each council member isn't just an average student, as they are representatives of various demonic factions who harbor intense interest in Ritsuka due to her familial lineage.

We have Rem Kaginuki, the president of the student council, and a devil who is the epitome of stoicism and dignity but hides a fiery side. Shiki Natsumezaka, the secretary, is an easygoing, yet occasionally sinister fallen angel. The treasurer, Mage Nanashiro, is a devil with a boisterous attitude and love for everything fun. Urie Sogami, who is the vice president, comes off as a ladies' man and is also a devil. Last but not least, there is Roen, a seemingly normal dog who is actually a familiar serving one of her protectors.

Each male character in the series attempts to woo Ritsuka, which transforms the show into an engaging and thrilling reverse-harem scenario. However, Ritsuka is not your typical damsel in distress; she's fierce, independent and while the dashing council members are caught up in the madness of supernatural politics and power plays, she's determined to save her mother no matter what it takes.

As the series progresses, Ritsuka finds herself increasingly entangled in a world where nothing is black and white, nor is it entirely evil or good. It urges viewers to ask much deeper questions about love, trust, betrayal, and loyalty as the story unfolds further, with a plot that not only emphasizes the supernatural elements but also real-life dilemmas.

The show's visual design is vivid and gorgeous, matching the grandeur of the supernatural themes within the tale. The character designs, too, are strikingly handsome, each portraying a particular aura that is significant to their supernatural identities. The series’ diverse array of tunes, dramatic or soft, create an immersive fairy-tale atmosphere which further complements the series' unique narrative.

"Dance with Devils" manages to spotlight each of the absorbing story elements while maintaining the balance, avoiding the trap of becoming overly cheese-filled or cliché. It is not merely an exploration of a mystical world teeming with supernatural beings; it's also a journey of a young girl throwing herself into a sea of chaos, from where she must emerge while maintaining her individuality and integrity.

This show, with its distinctive mesh of music, supernatural tropes, and a bold heroine, brings something different to the table for the audience who are looking for something beyond the ordinary in the anime universe. If you're a fan of reverse-harem series, supernatural themes, or musicals, then "Dance with Devils" may be worth your while.