Devil May Cry is a long-running video game franchise created by Capcom, known for its fast-paced combat and gothic atmosphere. The story centers around Dante, a demon hunter with a flair for the dramatic, as he battles supernatural forces threatening humanity. Originally spun off from a Resident Evil 4 prototype in 2001, it has since grown into a cult favorite with several mainline entries, a reboot, and even an anime. Netflix’s new project reboots this story, bringing fans a fresh take on the iconic characters and lore while introducing its notable action to a whole new generation.

Episode one introduces a rabbit-like humanoid demon character known as White Rabbit. In this introduction, he hires a group of thieves to rob the Vatican. White Rabbit reveals himself as the group robs every piece of gold they see, reaching for a sword protected in a glass case. Once it’s wielded, this sword begins to show mystical, dark powers. White Rabbit slaughters the guards and thieves with this sword, revealing his ruthlessness and the forbidden ancient power.

Audiences are quickly introduced to Dante and his cocky attitude as he saves a woman and her child from demons. Once the two are safe, Dante realises that the baby is possessed. Before he could take action, the mother knocked him out of the way, fleeing with her child. 

While the woman was confused that demons were roaming the earth, it became apparent that recently, demons have been wreaking havoc on the planet. Different news stations are shown, revealing the panic of the spiritual warfare at hand. Important leaders gather, discussing the appearances of demons and portals from hell. The White Rabbit’s newly acquired power quickly became a topic, as these leaders are shown footage of this demon mentioning a demon hunter. With this tip, this secret group makes their new agenda, gathering demon hunters to find more clues.

The government agency Darkcom acquires intel on who the White Rabbit hired. This man, Enzo Ferino, reveals that the Rabbit had a clear agenda—he wanted certain demons eliminated. But there was more to it; he didn’t just want the demons gone, he wanted Dante. 

Teams were sent in to investigate. Every mission ended in silence—no survivors, no answers, except for one. The sword in the given footage showed unlimitless power, and further details revealed that the sword may be the gateway to hell, opening up a portal for the bigger demons. The key to this may be the demon hunter, Dante.

While Dante enjoys a nice break at a local diner, a semi is thrown into the restaurant, causing an explosion. Within the flames, a man similar to Dante’s twin brother appears. It’s soon revealed that it is actually the demon that possessed the baby that he saved. The shapeshifting demon attempts to steal Dante’s necklace with a red crystal on it, but Dante quickly overpowers the demon, revealing otherworldly strength.

The premiere of Netflix’s Devil May Cry throws viewers into a world where demons no longer hide in the shadows. The opening scene, which features a brutal attack on the Vatican led by a demon called the White Rabbit, raises the stakes fast. The main character, Dante, enters with all the confidence and flair fans would expect, slicing through demons in a scene that’s both comedic and fun to watch. While the episode leans into familiar territory with its structure and character tropes, the action is tight, the animation is sharp, and it captures that chaotic energy the franchise is known for. It’s a solid start that should keep both longtime fans and curious newcomers interested.

Rating: 7.5/10