The whip crack echoes through the cobblestone streets of Machecoul, a young man’s weapon cutting through the air as he fights to uphold his family’s legacy amidst the chaos of the French Revolution. This is Castlevania: Nocturne, a series that doesn’t shy away from its gothic horror roots or the political turmoil of its setting. Created by Clive Bradley for Netflix, this adult animated dark fantasy action series is a sequel to the acclaimed Castlevania series (2017–2021), based on Konami’s video game franchise. It’s a show that demands attention, not just for its visual prowess but for its unflinching exploration of power, revolution, and the supernatural.

Set in 1792 during the French Revolution, Nocturne follows Richter Belmont (Edward Bluemel), a descendant of previous protagonists Trevor Belmont and Sypha Belnades. Richter is the current wielder of the legendary “Vampire Killer” whip, and his Speaker powers inherited from Sypha are mentally blocked by his childhood trauma. The series focuses on Richter’s journey as he battles to prevent the rise of Erzsebet Báthory (Franka Potente), a power-hungry vampire ruler who claims to be the reincarnation of the Egyptian goddess Sekhmet. Alongside Richter are Annette (Thuso Mbedu), a former slave from the French Caribbean with Vodou magic abilities, and Maria Renard (Pixie Davies), his adoptive sister and a Speaker who can summon animal spirits.

What makes Nocturne stand out is its commitment to its dark fantasy roots. The series doesn’t just use the French Revolution as a backdrop; it weaves the historical context into its narrative fabric. The themes of resistance, revolution, and the corrupting influence of power are explored with a depth that elevates the show beyond mere action-packed entertainment. The animation is sleek and fluid, with a dark, moody palette that perfectly suits its macabre tone. The fight choreography is particularly impressive, with Richter’s whip-wielding skills showcased in dynamic, brutal sequences that are both visually stunning and narratively compelling.

The voice cast is strong across the board, with Bluemel delivering a nuanced performance as Richter. He balances his character’s determination and vulnerability, bringing a sense of authenticity to the role. Mbedu shines as Annette, bringing depth and emotional resonance to her character. Her journey from a former slave to a powerful figure in the revolution is one of the series’ most compelling arcs. Davies’ Maria is equally captivating, her transformation from an aristocrat-turned-revolutionary adding another layer of complexity to the narrative.

The supporting cast is equally impressive. Zahn McClarnon’s Olrox, an ancient Aztec vampire, brings a unique flavor of menace to his role. Nastassja Kinski’s Tera Renard, Maria’s mother and Richter’s adoptive mother, adds a touch of mysticism and wisdom to the series. Richard Dormer as Emmanuel / The Abbot and Aaron Neil as Mizrak provide strong performances that enhance the show’s exploration of faith, power, and corruption.

The series also benefits from Trevor Morris and Trey Toy’s original soundtrack, which blends orchestral grandeur with haunting melodies that amplify the show’s gothic atmosphere. The music complements the animation and voice acting, creating a cohesive audiovisual experience that immerses the viewer in the world of Nocturne.

However, Nocturne isn’t without its flaws. The pacing in the first season can feel uneven at times, with some plot threads taking longer to develop than others. While the series excels in its action sequences and world-building, it occasionally struggles to balance its myriad storylines, leading to moments of narrative clutter. For instance, the subplot involving Edouard (Sydney James Harcourt) and Mizrak’s relationship feels underdeveloped compared to the main narrative arcs.

Another minor quibble is the handling of some secondary characters, who feel underdeveloped compared to the main trio of Richter, Annette, and Maria. While the core cast is compelling, some supporting characters could use more screen time to flesh out their motivations and arcs. For example, Elarica Johnson’s Drolta Tzuentes, an ancient vampire and a devoted follower of Sekhmet, has a fascinating backstory that isn’t fully explored in the first season.

Despite these issues, Nocturne is a worthy return to the world of Castlevania. It’s a series that thrives on its dark fantasy roots, delivering a gripping narrative that blends historical drama with supernatural horror. The show’s unapologetic embrace of gothic themes and political intrigue sets it apart from other animated series in the genre.

Nocturne is for fans of dark fantasy who appreciate complex narratives and richly drawn characters. It’s also for those interested in historical dramas that explore the darker aspects of revolution and power. The series doesn’t shy away from its mature themes, making it a compelling watch for viewers looking for something more substantial than typical animated fare.

In conclusion, Castlevania: Nocturne is a strong addition to the Castlevania franchise. It builds on the success of its predecessor while carving out its own unique identity.