Devil May Cry

Based on the wildly successful action-adventure video game series of the same title by Capcom, the 2007 animated series "Devil May Cry" from WOWOW brings the demon-hunting excitement of the game to the small screen. The series mixes elements of dark fantasy and horror, showcasing action-packed sequences, deeply thought-out storylines, and remarkable animation.

The show explores the mysterious life of the protagonist, Dante, who manages a specialty business by the name of 'Devil May Cry', which undertakes any task, save one - demon hunting. Dante himself is the son of a demon named Sparda hence, this specialized service. Combining a captivating mystique with a proclivity for lethargic nature, Dante has a nonchalant attitude masking his superior demon slaying abilities.

The series is set in a world where the lines between the human and demon realms blur drastically. This presents an extremely compelling narrative where Dante, as a half-demon himself, constantly grapples with his duality, adding depth to the action-centric narrative. Throughout the series, he confronts various opponents and allies, some of whom are also torn between their dual natures. With a haunting past that continually resurfaces throughout the show, Dante’s journey is as much about his personal growth as it is about defeating demons and saving humanity.

The universe of Devil May Cry is packed with compelling supporting characters who lend even more depth to its narrative. Each character has their own unique attributes and backstory which gets explored in different episodes. Key characters such as Morrison, who serves as a mediator between Dante and his clients, and Patty Lowell, who believes she is heir to a rich legacy, provide a vivid contrast and interesting dynamics to Dante’s solitary demeanor. Dante’s brother Vergil, who plays a significant role in the game series, also makes appearances to amp up the show’s intensity.

The show maintains a gritty and noir atmosphere, befitting the Gothic nature of its source material. The visuals and animations are meticulously detailed. The dark and somber outlook of the city, Dante's eclectic and memorabilia-ridden office, and the often grisly nature of the demons Dante faces, are all brought to life with striking detail.

One of the major highlights of "Devil May Cry" is its thrilling action sequences. As in the video game, Dante showcases a mesmerising array of combat skills - depicted using very fluid animation. Weaving around bullets, slicing opponents with his father's sword - The Rebellion, and using the twin handguns Ebony and Ivory, he resembles a dark ballet dancer amidst the bone-chilling fight sequences.

The tone of the show aligns with the game’s aesthetic, staying true to its origins. Dark, brooding, and gorgeously sinister, the arcs are complemented by a haunting soundtrack that effectively adds to the series’ overall mood.

As a whole, "Devil May Cry" is not just about the relentless fighting or the tension-filled narrative arcs, but it also delves into themes of personal struggle with identity, the duality of good and evil, comradery, and the intrinsic desire to protect the ones you care for. It is a show that certainly does justice to the original game series while standing up as an entity on its own. Looking beyond the game-based premise, it's an exciting, dark, and visually stunning show that captures the essence of the gothic narrative while making its unique mark in the animated series landscape.

Even those unfamiliar with the video game franchise can appreciate the beautifully rendered artistry, the conflicted protagonist, the compelling plot, and the high-octane action scenes that are prevailing throughout the series. "Devil May Cry" is a must-watch for anyone who likes action, drama, and a healthy dose of supernatural elements. With a captivating storyline, unique characters, and a well-executed production, Devil May Cry is unquestionably a standout in the world of anime gripping audiences from the first episode and leaving them with a desire for more.