Devilman Crybaby, is a 10 episode series based on the 1970’s manga of the same name. Directed by Masaaki Yuasa, the series is the first anime to be Japanese produced by Netflix. The original series was written by Go Nagai in 1972. Devilman was suppose to be a sequel of sorts to a previous series, Demon Lord Dante. That anime followed the protagonists, Akira and his childhood friend Ryo. After they investigates Akira’s father’s  death they find an ancient mask and Akira puts it on becoming possessed by a demon. Devilman Crybaby is similar, but is presented in the present.

However, Akira is possessed by the demon Amon at an orgy. While there Ryo uses a broken bottle to cut up the teens at the party, summoning the demon with blood. Akira is possessed by Amon, but not completely, resulting in a “devilman,” half man, half demon. The series is full of bright colors, nudity, sex (not hentai levels), violence and blood. However, this debauchery is why Ryo believes that humanity isn’t worth saving. Masaaki Yuasa (Space Dandy, Ping Pong: The Animation, and Adventure time), provides his trademark fluid and vivid animation.

If you enjoy the Neon Genesis Evangelion series or Berserk, much of some of the content of this series will not phase you. Akira is an interesting character and while he was more so prior to being possessed. Ryo is a sociopath and unsurprisingly unlikable, if you watch the entire series it will make perfect sense why that is. The overall tone of the show while entertaining is ultimately dark and a bit nihilistic. The series doesn’t end in a predictable manner and that was refreshing. I would recommend this series but consider your willingness to watch sex and violence.