Devilman Crybaby (2018) Review

Warning: This review contains major spoilers for the 10-episode long series.

introduce

“Devil Man Crybaby” The riveting anime series, which took the world by storm in 2018, continues to impress with its unique blend of action, horror and supernatural elements. Available exclusively on Netflix, this 10-episode ONA (Original Network Animation) adaptation of the manga invites viewers into a world where demons and humans collide. In this article, we delve into the depths of “Devil Man Crybaby,” exploring its themes, storytelling, and artistic prowess.

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Devilman Crybaby promotional image

summary

The series introduces us to Akira Fudou, a sympathetic and unsuspecting young man who finds himself drawn into a chaotic battle between demons and humans. With the help of his mysterious childhood friend Ryou Asuka, Akira becomes a demon man after merging with the demon Amon, gaining extraordinary powers to fight the demonic menace. As Akira embraces his newfound abilities, he grapples with inner darkness and the moral complexities of his mission.

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ryou and akira
Ryou (top left) and Akira’s demon form (top right)

theme of love

The metaphor of the relay race in “Ghost Crying Wolf” is a powerful symbol of the transmission and persistence of love. Throughout the series, characters such as Akira and Miko fight their way through their respective relay races, representing the challenges and obstacles they face as they allow themselves to love and be loved.

These struggles reflect the complexity and vulnerability inherent in forming deep emotional connections. However, as the story progresses, we witness the growth and resilience of the characters in the relay race, showing their willingness to take risks and open up.This metaphor emphasizes Love is not a stagnant or isolated experience, but an ongoing process of passing the baton from one person to another, Continue the flame of love. Miko gradually falls in love with Miki. Miki likes Akira. Akira loves Ryou. Every love is passed between our characters.

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relay metaphor

The “relay race” metaphor perfectly encapsulates the transformative nature of love and its potential to overcome adversity and inspire growth.

In “Crybaby”‘s love theme, Miki’s character stands out as a beacon of openness and compassion. As the school’s track and field star, she embodies perseverance. When Akira faces persecution from humans due to her demonic nature, Miki bravely stands up for her friend in a triumphant act of love.

Relay Race Devil Man Crybaby
Miki (left) and Devilin Miko (right)

However, as Miki’s selfless actions are met with betrayal and violence, the tragic reality of human nature is laid bare. In the grip of a thug mentality, the humans she was trying to protect turned against her, brutally ending her life as she attempted to escape with Miko. The horrifying scene of Miki’s head impaled on spikes symbolizes the depth of human cruelty and the irrationality that emerges when fear and anger reign supreme. Through the tragic fate of Miki and Akira, the series paints a harsh reality that in a world plagued by evil and driven by irrational impulses, love can be treated with unimaginable cruelty.

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Devilman crybaby miki dead head
Miki’s head is shown in the middle

Ending (spoilers ahead)

Devilman Crybaby left a lasting impact with its bold and tragic ending. As the series reaches its climax, we witness Ryou’s devastating act of murdering Akira, resulting in a dystopian world devoid of love and consumed by chaos. This dark turn highlights the far-reaching consequences of Ryou’s actions, and the tragic loss of what he holds most dear: his friendship with Akira. The absence of love is palpable in this desolate hellscape, a poignant reminder of the importance and power of this fundamental emotion.

akira death devilman crybaby
Akira and Satan form Ryou

However, the story takes a profound turn as God intervenes, cleanses and resets the universe. This moment is an important lesson for Ryou, Satan incarnate. Through this experience, Ryou faces the undeniable truth that even he, as the embodiment of darkness and evil, is not immune to the transforming power of love. God’s intervention powerfully demonstrates that love transcends all boundaries, ultimately teaching Ryou a profound lesson that love is an integral part of the human experience, regardless of one’s nature or past.

ryou and akira death scene
Akira’s death scene, in what is now Earth’s Hellscape

This compelling portrayal of the importance of love, even in the face of darkness, adds a layer of depth and introspection to the series. It underscores the complex themes of redemption, self-discovery, and the ability to change that run throughout “Demonic Crybaby.” The series’ emotional impact, combined with its masterful storytelling and breathtaking visuals, cemented its status as an anime that pushed boundaries and challenged audiences to think about the depths of the human experience.

in conclusion

If you haven’t seen Devilman Crybaby by now, you’re probably avoiding it because some people have been very vocal about not liking it. After all, this series deals with metaphors— ew, disgusting, amirite. In an anime landscape filled with generic Issei and Shonen anime, many people aren’t interested in seeing this kind of theme in anime, no matter how pretty it looks.

And, you know, it’s okay.

Devilman crybaby angry akira
angry akira

Not everyone likes this anime. But if you watch it with analytical glasses – you might have some fun here.

What do you think? Do you love it, or hate it? Let us know in the comments below!

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