When Vampires are Dapper
The Case Study of Vanitas first aired in July of 2021 and was produced by Studio Bones. (The absolute goats.) It was adapted from the manga of the same name created by Jun Mochizuki. The story follows a human individual known as Vanitas. He bares the name of a vampire of legend who sought revenge on the rest of the vampire kind who have treated him ill. However, with the fabled Grimoire Vanitas uses the power of the Blue Moon Vampire to save the vampires he comes across. Assisting him is an unlikely compatriot Noé Archiviste, himself a vampire in search of the book assists him begrudgingly as they save Vampire inflicted with a terrible fate.
The Case Study of Vanitas is one of the coolest examples of reshuffling a genre. I absolutely adore the way this story has been told. From its characters to its incredible design within a 1800’s steampunk setting. This show is among one of the coolest because of its style and the utter air it breathes about itself. Seeing the extravagant designs of our main characters it is very easy to tell that the people we are looking at are incredibly important.
Vanitas: The Style, Sweet and Flowing
I am a massive fan of all things flowing and extravagant. The grander the better in my eyes and Vanitas exudes that every chance he gets. The occasional French mixed in with his sentences, the inflection to the accents while his clothing flows in the wind screams confidence and pride. He is such a well-written character, and his design brings the pedestal up even higher.
Now coming to the story, I have to say I love this fresh take on the classic “vampire in anime” cliches we’ve been seeing these days. Instead of the basic, secret vampire among us high school drama, it does something entirely unique. It tells a new story about legends dictating a curse placed upon vampire-kind. The story tells of the old vampire Vanitas placing the curse. But as we quickly come to realize this is false.
There is no curse, instead a vampire known as Charlatan uses an ancient power to taint vampires and increase their bloodlust. Corrupting their name. Another really interesting and amazing feature of the anime. The use of true names dictates a vampire’s physical state. And watching Vanitas cure these vampires has this gorgeous flare to it that shows their true names.
What it Means to Hold The Bridge in Vanitas
There are many wonderful and amazing facets to this show. From its fight scenes to its incredible art direction, studio Bones has done a terrific job. I am insanely impressed with what they have done for The Case Study of Vanitas. I will say however this show is for people who can handle blood and violent imagery. The show does feature some more mature themes, but nothing ever gets out of hand which is quite nice. Everything feels like it has a place and isn’t forced in for the shock factor. Even the shocking parts!
I recommend this anime for people who really want something fresh. It also feels a lot like Sherlock Holmes in terms of its setting. So, if you enjoy that then give this anime a try!