Since its launch in 2001, Devil May Cry has evolved into a highly acclaimed video game franchise. The inaugural title paved the way for multiple sequels, comic adaptations, and even a novelization series, culminating in an animated series released in 2007. Now, an exciting animated spinoff is on the horizon, premiering on Netflix. This new project features Jonny Yong Bosch, known for his role as Nero in Devil May Cry 4 and 5, voicing Dante, alongside Scout Taylor-Compton as Lady.
In a conversation with Game Rant, Adi Shankar, the illustrious creator behind the franchise’s adaptations, shared his vision for making the show resonate with both seasoned fans and newcomers alike. With a successful track record, including the acclaimed Castlevania anime, Shankar aims to elevate the franchise further with this new adaptation of Devil May Cry.
Broadening the Appeal of Devil May Cry
The Devil May Cry franchise has witnessed significant growth in its fan base, particularly with each successive title. The expansion into diverse media has attracted a wider audience, prompting Shankar to consider how best to honor this varied fan base while enticing new viewers to the series. Reflecting on his approach, he stated:
”It was an exercise in alchemy. Devil May Cry does have a very core, very dedicated fan base. I’m part of the fan base! But if you really get into it, the fan base is fractured. Because of all the different games, different outfits etc. It’s not a cohesive group. So this was an exercise in alchemy in the sense of just kind of bringing it all together.”
Leveraging 24 Years of Lore in Devil May Cry
One of the considerable advantages of adapting a long-standing video game series is the wealth of established lore to draw from. In crafting Devil May Cry, Shankar recognized the importance of integrating this lore while preserving the fundamental nature of the characters and their universe. He referred to this process as ‘cosmic editing.’ In his words:
”I use the phrase cosmic editing when describing it. It’s like using the hindsight of 24 years’ worth of material that was designed through retconning. Then cosmically editing it and not changing it again. That’s the key. Sometimes I go into things like Captain Laserhawk, and I’m like, alright, we’re gonna flip everything on its head. I did not do that here. That was not my goal. The goal was to reveal the architecture that was always there.”
Shankar’s commitment to respecting the original material while infusing fresh elements into the show is apparent. By introducing younger versions of characters like Dante and Lady, the series aims to breathe new life into the narrative. The inclusion of early 2000s Nu-Metal tracks, featuring Limp Bizkit’s “Rollin’ (Air Raid Vehicle)”as the main theme, adds a layer of nostalgia, appealing to fans who remember the music from the franchise’s inception.