Is Devilman Crybaby worth watching? A brutal, beautiful, and unforgettable anime

Those who are familiar with Devilman Crybaby in the anime community may be aware that this show was specifically created with a mature audience in mind. It is one such niche type of anime series that has split the fandom in half, as one faction fell in love with a unique premise backed by an intricately different art style. The others felt it the narrative was difficult to relate to. So the question comes down to asking if Devilman Crybaby is worth watching?

The short answer is, yes, it should be given a shot, although it is recommended for viewers to adhere to the age restriction content. If anyone is having second thoughts about this show just because of its reputation, this article is going to take a deeper dive into the nitty-gritty of the anime to help make a decision.

The main theme of Devilman Crybaby seems like it promotes violence, but after giving this series a watch, many fans believe that it hides the main message, which is focused on the emotional and philosophical tone. Directed by Masaaki Yuasa and based on Go Nagai’s classic manga, the series modernizes a 1970s story and drops it straight into the chaos of the 21st century. The plot follows Akira Fudo, a gentle, empathetic teenager who merges with a powerful demon to protect humanity.

What makes him different from others is that he keeps his human heart, becoming the titular “Devilman.” This contrast between overwhelming power and deep emotional vulnerability is the foundation of the series. Rather than glorifying strength, Devilman Crybaby constantly questions whether power without empathy leads only to destruction.

A unique art style that defines the experience

The best part of this show is the unique art style. To date, it has been talked about because animation does not aim for traditional beauty. Instead, it embraces distortion, motion, and chaos. This stylistic choice actually makes the darker moments more bearable for some viewers, as the surreal visuals create emotional distance without dulling the impact.

Others, however, find the style jarring or uncomfortable. Either way, it’s instantly recognizable and impossible to confuse with anything else. Much like the story itself, the animation refuses to play it safe. Yes, the show is extremely mature. The violence is raw, the imagery is unsettling, and sexual themes are present from the very beginning.

However, what separates Devilman Crybaby from shock-value anime is intent. The gore and explicit moments are not there just to provoke; they reinforce the show’s central ideas about fear, desire, paranoia, and humanity’s capacity for cruelty.

Final verdict: Who should watch Devilman Crybaby?

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It has been established that Devilman Crybaby is not a series that could be enjoyed by everyone. With mature themes and motifs, this particular anime caters to adults, as by now they could look past some concerning things mentioned in the show, like substance abuse or violence, and try to understand the meaning before the actions.

If anyone liked shows like Bojack Horseman, Erased, and Afro Samurai, then there is a possibility that this anime can end up making it into one's must-watch list. While it might not be everyone's cup of tea to like this show, it should be watched as Devilman Crybaby does address a few important themes that would linger in the minds of the viewers long after they watched the finale, also.

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