The Case Study of Vanitas (Vanitas no Karte) may appear at first as just another fantasy action vampire anime, but it is so much more than that. I am pleasantly impressed by this show, especially because the few clips and descriptions I saw beforehand were not enough to excite me.

What’s It About?

In the show, we largely follow two protagonists: Vanitas, a human, and Noé Archiviste, a vampire, as they delve into the conflicted world of vampires and humans. Vampires, as we learn, are divided into two opposing clans—the Blue Moon and the Red Moon. Our titular character, Vanitas, is affiliated with the Blue Moon clan despite being a human, while Noé is a member of the Crimson Moon clan. As these two navigate a complex world, they must ensure they do not disturb the fragile peace between humans and vampires, while also uncovering mysteries about each other and the world at large. While the show is split into two parts, and both are equally enjoyable, some viewers may find Part 1 a bit slow. Still, I strongly suggest sticking with it—the groundwork and world-building it lays leads to a satisfying narrative payoff in the beauty that is Part 2. I love nothing more than when a show subverts my preconceived notions, and Vanitas no Karte did exactly that.

Finding Balance

When I started the anime, I wasn’t immediately hooked. I didn’t find the beginning all that intriguing, and the first few episodes felt lackluster as the setting and characters seemed uninspiring. But everything changed with the introduction of Jeanne, whose chemistry with Vanitas is one of the anime’s strongest highlights. The arcs are well-paced, striking a perfect balance between the action, mystery, and comedy.

The animation is beautiful, fluid, and colorful. The 19th-century France setting of the show fits it just right. The highest praise I can give to the show is for the writing on the relationship between our two main characters. Noé, a vampire with a heart of gold, plays an important foil to the cynical humanity of Vanitas. They fit together like honey in milk—supporting, clashing, and challenging each other in ways that feel meaningful to their character development. There is an underlying tension but also genuine respect for each other in their dynamic. ALSO SEE: Star Wars: Visions Vol. 3 Gets A Poster And Release Date

Other Pluses

The supporting cast is no pushover either. Roland Fortis, the captain of the Chasseurs, and the de Sade sisters are exceptionally well-written; even when they act as antagonistic forces for our duo, you can’t help but root for them. Their presence adds depth and complexity to the conflict within the narrative.

One of the biggest driving forces of this anime is its story. The way it blends a fantastical world with real historical elements of 19th-century Europe is remarkable. It’s a slow burn that takes its time setting up the characters and plot, but as the mysteries unravel and character motivations are revealed, you won’t be able to look away.

The series effortlessly balances action, romance, mystery, comedy, and character development with seamless plot progression. Aside from the complex but beautiful friendship between the main duo, another highlight is the romance. While vampire-human relationships have been depicted countless times, here it’s the way the couples interact that makes it special. I smiled every time Jeanne and Vanitas shared the screen.

Final Thoughts

If you are looking for a vampire show that explores the political intrigue of the human-vampire world with well-written characters, a layered mystery, adrenaline-filled action, cute romance, and genuinely funny moments, The Case Study of Vanitas will not disappoint. It is available now, on Crunchyroll.

Grade: A-

Have you seen The Case Study of Vanitas? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

  FOR FANBOYS, BY FANBOYS Have you checked out LRM Online’s official podcasts and videos on The Genreverse Podcast Network? Available on YouTube and all your favorite podcast apps, This multimedia empire includes The Daily CoG, Breaking Geek Radio: The Podcast, GeekScholars Movie News, Anime-Versal Review Podcast, and our Star Wars dedicated podcast The Cantina. Check it out by listening on all your favorite podcast apps, or watching on YouTube! Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts |  Spotify |  SoundCloud | Stitcher | Google Play