Devil May Cry Review: An Honest Look at Netflix’s Reboot

Netflix has delved into the world of animated video game adaptations with a fresh take on Devil May Cry, Capcom’s beloved series of character action games that dates back to 2001. This new show serves as a reboot of the series, inviting newcomers to jump right in, while still paying homage to the roots of the early 2000s originals.

As someone who watched the opening credits set to Limp Bizkit’s “Rollin’,” I couldn’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia, realizing that the things we enjoyed in our younger years can eventually become part of what’s now called “divorced dad core.” Devil May Cry may have aged, but that doesn’t mean it’s lost its edge – and neither have we.

Despite the fact that the Devil May Cry game franchise has spanned decades and saw a pinnacle with 2019’s Devil May Cry 5, the Netflix series feels firmly planted in the era of the original games. While the show’s use of early 2000s songs like Papa Roach’s “Last Resort” may seem like a throwback, they’re actually nods to the music fans were rocking out to during the series’ earlier days.

The show does a good job of capturing the essence of Devil May Cry. We follow a young Dante, played by Johnny Yong Bosch, who finds himself in a battle between demons led by the suave White Rabbit and a government agency focused on demon hunting. The White Rabbit aims to break down the barrier between worlds, and Dante’s family heirloom is key to their plan.

As the season unfolds, we are introduced to a complex web of characters that expand upon the game’s universe. While the first half of the season may feel a bit sluggish as it sets the stage, the second half picks up the pace and delivers the demon-slaying action fans crave. Devil May Cry manages to balance style with substance, giving us a thrilling ride from start to finish.

While the show might take a bit of time to hit its stride, Devil May Cry is still a fun and engaging watch. With stylish action sequences and a charismatic lead character in Dante, the show delivers that perfect blend of campy swagger and intense battles. And with the groundwork laid for future seasons, it looks like this demon-slaying adventure is just getting started.

For fans of the original games, Devil May Cry is a nostalgic trip down memory lane. But even newcomers can appreciate the show’s unique charm and entertaining storyline. As someone who found themselves pleasantly surprised by the series, I’m excited to see where Devil May Cry goes next.