Synopsis
A branch of the Juuouchou government, the Hades Agency is the caretaker of souls who wander lost in the afterlife, helping to guide them safely to the underworld. It is a detective network where the executives themselves, called Shinigami, are neither dead nor alive but can travel about the earth with supernatural abilities. The series begins with Tsuzuki and his new partner Hisoka investigating a serial killer whose victims have sharp fang marks and are drained of their blood…
Review
The Breakdown
Not as lengthy as many others but the weakness balance out the strengths. Not bad.
» The Pros
Based on the manga to volume 8, Yami no Matsuei has the characteristic storyline of good versus evil. However, the series has one of the best villains ever created. Muraki Kazutaka, who on the outside plays the role of an intelligent, handsome doctor, is a cold, sadistic murderer. He continually torments and sexually harasses Tsuzuki. In the final four episodes of the anime, more of Muraki's past is revealed making him seem even more eerie.
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» The Cons
Male audiences might find this series disturbing with the male-to-male love triangle between Tsuzuki, Hisoka, and Muraki to the point of being gay. The male characters are extremely emotional compared to the stereotypical macho type.
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» Animation
10 |
Spectacular. Brightly colored summoning techniques, magic circles, and Japanese incantations with interwoven computer backdrops. Fluid hand illustrations, lighting, and multiple camera views supporting the mood varying from a normal, daytime casualness to a nightmarish, shadowy nightfall. |
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» Sound
9 |
Noteworthy opening theme To Destination by Eden and animation. Sinuous violin and piano interplay throughout the series, beat reflecting tense moments. However, the ending theme is not as great in comparison. |
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» Story
7.5 |
Divided into four parts, easy to follow plot while maintaining suspense. The biggest drawback is that the series is a much-condensed version of the manga making it seem rushed. The nature of the Shinigami and Juuouchou are not adequately explained as well as some background on minor characters such as the Count, Konoe, the chief, and Watari. The series is designed to supplement the manga instead of stand on its own. The ending is not truly complete only a new resolve with the villain still at large. |
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» Recommend
7.5 |
A decent anime series. |
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» Other Information
Language: Japanese with optional English or Chinese subtitles
Extras: None
Package: Tsuzuki facing left with hands held in a praying stance, topless; behind Muraki facing right in his defined white coat both on top of a stained glass church panel. Bottom center is a pink haired 'vampire' version of Maria Won, a famous singer in the Nagasaki Arc. |
Wednesday, September 30, 2026
