I got into podcasting as a means of coping with depression. When I started out listening, it was basic nerd podcasts. A couple of guys and girls simply discussing comics and movies. The thing about podcasting, that no one tells you, it's like a secret club that has been in existence forever. You begin to hear about other podcasts you never knew existed from friends around you - that also listen to said podcasts. They just didn't want to tell anyone for whatever weird reason. We all have that one friend who listens to true crime podcasts. Everyone has at least one.
True crime has become one of the most talked-about genres within the medium. There is something within us that fascinates us about serial killers. How can an individual look at someone else and think, "how would I kill them?" Sometimes reasons are religious extremism or vengeance. It begs the questions, how does a hatred fester to that degree, that murder is the only peace they'll ever know to find? With the second season of Castlevania, series antagonist, Dracula, aimed to eliminate the whole human race. When such plans never grow from vision to reality - what are your allies to do? That's where we viewers will find themselves within the third season of the Netflix anime.
The show picks up one month after the events of the second season finale. While this season, in particular, is heavy-handed with its B-plots, ala world-building and seed planting for future seasons, it focuses primarily on Trevor Belmont & Sypha. While we will discuss the B-plots in just a minute, I do want to focus on the main plot thread of this season. Trevor is once again thrust into the spotlight, though it feels different this time around. Him and Sypha, the magician ally introduced in season two, are now romantically linked. The two have incredible chemistry and push both characters into bold new directions. The two stumble into the little town of Lindenfeld and are simply stopping for a period of rest. That rest quickly gets interrupted when an interdimensional apocalypse is brought forth and it's up to them to stop it.
Honestly, shining the spotlight upon them is the best decision for this season. Why this season is far from perfect, Trevor and Sypha are the anchor of the season. The aforementioned chemistry between the two launches some of the smartest writing and witty humor within the season. Not to mention, the fight scenes with these two are not only the best within the season but arguably the series as a whole. Honestly, their dynamic works on a multitude of levels. Though, they are far from alone. As previously mentioned, this season showcases heavily on the fallout of the second season. So, we have multiple b-plots which feature Hector and Carmella, Isaac, and Alucard.
Minor spoiler for season two, if you haven't seen it yet - Hector gets taken prisoner by Carmella. It seemed like she was poised to be the big threat of this season, however, that is not the case. She is largely absent, with the exception of a few key sequences. Think about how the first season treated Dracula and that is Carmella for season three. Rather the season depicts Hector's relationship with Carmella's sister, Lenore. The sisters play a larger part within this season, as well. However, it's Lenore who really steals the spotlight. Arguably one of the most surprising and intriguing characters to come from the series to date. I can't wait to explore more with her.
Though, it's Isaac's journey throughout this season that fuels the humanity of the show. Now that Dracula is departed from the series, it feels the power vacuum isn't the only thing that needs to be filled. Dracula was arguably one of the strongest and most humane elements the first two seasons offered. Now, that mantle goes to Isaac. Isaac's arc throughout the series probably provides some of the most philosophical and impressionable moments. Without a doubt, one of the strongest written characters throughout the series. Lastly, you have Alucard who feels just void of purpose. Of all the b-plots, he feels the most wasted, left to merely train. By the time the season closes its frames on the final shot, his arc feels pointless. Displaying little to no growth as a character, nor world-building. Not to mention, he is featured in one of the most bizarre narrative choices within the series. The ninth episode features a rather graphic, unnecessary and tonally inconsistent set of sequences.
Overall, Castlevania: Season Three, is another beautiful addition to the video game anime series. Returning strong by highlighting its focus upon Trevor and Sypha - two of the strongest characters from its last season. The chemistry between them is undeniable. The two make for some of the season's wittiest humor, as well as its' strongest action sequences. Placing the focus on Trevor and Sypha, is a smart narrative choice that allows the plot and mythology time to breathe. While also making the anime feel refreshing. The b-plots remain equally strong - for the most part. Isaac is arguably the strongest arc throughout these ten episodes. Serving as the humanity of the series, while still providing strong action along the way. While Lenore, one of Carmella's sisters, is one of the most surprising, strongest and well-crafted additions to the anime. The season seemingly drops the b-plots at one point, only to bizarrely pick them up during the closing moments of the finale. Placing that with some other weird narrative choices and the series suffers a bit. Still, Castlevania: Season Three, welcomes strong narrative, addition to the mythos and mouth-watering teases for future installments.
RORSCHACH RATING:
If you or someone you know is reading this right now and you are struggling with suicide, depression, addiction, or self-harm - please reach out. Comment, message or tweet to us. Go to victimsandvillains.net/hope for more resources. Call the suicide lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. Text "HELP" to 741-741. There is hope & you DO have so much value and worth!
Victims and Villains is written and produced by Josh "Captain Nostalgia" Burkey. Music by Yuriy Bespalov & Beggars. Castlevania is property of Netflix. We do not own nor claim any rights.
