Ishiyama High is a school populated entirely by delinquents, where nonstop violence and lawlessness are the norm. However, there is one universally acknowledged rule—don't cross first year student Tatsumi Oga, Ishiyama's most vicious fighter.
One day, Oga is by a riverbed when he encounters a man floating down the river. After being retrieved by Oga, the man splits down the middle to reveal a baby, which crawls onto Oga's back and immediately forms an attachment to him. Though he doesn't know it yet, this baby is named Kaiser de Emperana Beelzebub IV, or "Baby Beel" for short—the son of the Demon Lord!
As if finding the future Lord of the Underworld isn't enough, Oga is also confronted by Hildegard, Beel's demon maid. Together they attempt to raise Baby Beel—although surrounded by juvenile delinquents and demonic powers, the two of them may be in for more of a challenge than they can imagine.
Anime Review: Beelzebub
A FIENDISHLY FUN RIDE
Synopsis:
High school tough guy, Tatsumi Oga, finds himself in a predicament when he discovers a baby floating down a river. This is no ordinary baby, however; it’s the son of the demon king! Named Beelzebub, the baby is tasked with destroying humanity, and Oga, with his extraordinary fighting strength, is chosen to raise him. A contract forms between them, and if Beelzebub is separated from Oga for more than 15 meters or if Oga dies, the world will end.
Oga’s life is turned upside down as he tries to balance high school, gang fights, and raising a demonic child. Amidst the trials and tribulations of everyday school life, he must safeguard Beelzebub, keeping the unwelcome attention of demons and humans alike at bay, all the while nurturing him for the supposed end of the world.
ANIME CRITIC’S TAKE
Imagine every YA novel about a high school student played straight, then abruptly and hilariously subverted – that’s Beelzebub for you. It takes the usual school yard brawl trope and injects it with a hefty dose of supernatural chaos. You get a ridiculously strong lead who decries his role but is perfect for it in every sense.
Thematically, the contrast between a tough man grappling with the dynamics of fatherhood whilst fighting off unnecessary troubles adds a refreshing spin. The humour is often slapstick and absurd, yet it never loses its charm. Even after multiple episodes, it continues to be entirely engaging, making Beelzebub a surprising binge-worthy option.
ARTWORK AND ANIMATION
The animation quality is top-notch, with the fight scenes possessing a fluidity that rivals many of its contemporaries. Character designs are striking, with Oga’s menacing stature and Beelzebub’s cherubic features creating a fun visual disparity. The colour scheme is vibrant and the art style complements the anime’s humoristic rhythm flawlessly.
CONCLUSION
If you’re a fan of off-kilter action-comedy animes, Beelzebub will undoubtedly ensnare your interest. It’s weird, it’s hilarious, it’s heartwarming. It offers the right balance of action, comedy, and emotional ups and downs. Now, should you buy, rent, or stream it? I’d say adding it to your own collection wouldn’t be a bad idea. After all, a style this distinctive is a rare commodity, one worth visiting more than once, even for the most seasoned of anime aficionados.
Final verdict: Beelzebub delivers a comedic punch with an unfathomably reliable precision that will keep you chuckling out loud throughout your watch. Get on that demonic ride and enjoy every minute of it!
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