Commentary: ‘Devil May Cry’ Season 2 Opens In The Most Perfect Way Possible
by Frank Martin
Television shows and films based on established properties already have a foundation from which to build their tone. When something is brand new, there are a multitude of directions that tone could take. But when something already exists, there’s a road map creators can follow in order to align with fan expectations. Sometimes, it helps to break those preconceptions and do something completely new. In the case of the Devil May Cry animated series, it leans exactly into the vibes pioneered by the hit video game series. So, for the opening of Season 2, it knew exactly what to do and delivered.
The episode starts with humans at war with the demons of Hell. There is a huge battle as DARKCOM forces assault Mundus’s (Ray Chase) castle. Massive casualties occur on both sides. At the same time, the entire operation is a distraction to get Mundus off his throne and join the battlefield so Mary (Scout Taylor-Compton) can infiltrate the fortress and steal a relic in his absence.
This opening scene is pure mayhem and carnage. It’s all action, leaving the rest of the episode to develop the story and move the plot along. Although fans of the series are certainly enamored by the Devil May Cry lore, it’s a hack-and-slash game for a reason, and the show delivers on the violence with this scene. But even more than that, the scene unfolds over a remix of “Getting Away With Murder” by Papa Roach. After featuring Evanescence prominently in the first season, the series knows just what kind of music elevates it best. And for gamers of a certain age, Papa Roach and this song hold a significant weight of nostalgia. Combining the insane action of Devil May Cry with a remix of a popular song that came out during the game series’s heyday is a perfect kickoff to the season.
Devil May Cry is now streaming on Netflix.
