Coming from the harem and slice of life factory that is Studio Daume, this show actually puts horror back into the bloodsucker genre. Delivering a story that feels like something out of a Stephen King novel where some spooky sh*t goes down in a small town. Vampires are more than just a plot device, they actually raise questions involving the creatures of the night and their right to live. They feed to survive. Should they really be hated for refusing to starve themselves to death? You be the judge. That's not to say this is a purely plot driven piece, there is PLENTY of bloody violence and gore to be had. And it also does touch on some romance notes (including one side character who makes Edward Cullen seem like Bruce Campbell in comparison). While also providing action scenes with a hammer and wooden stake being the weapons of choice.
The art and characters used in "Shiki" are a very interesting contrast. The characters themselves are drawn so vibrant, full of color, and with many distinct features (especially hair styles) that help to distinguish what is a large cast. And while the lot of them look like they're from a "Yu-Gi-Oh!" series on the outside, what lies within are deep characters with demons, desires, and back stories shrouded in mystery. Even without vampires in the picture, you still are curious about them. From the chain-smoking Dr. Ozaki, to the Junior Monk Muroi, and the mandatory super-serious, spiky haired, teenager Yuuki. Not to mention the numerous side-characters in the town who are too many to list in such a short review.
The music is very basic with forgettable opening and ending themes and a suitable soundtrack that sets up the right tones for what is going on during the show. The sound department did a good job with some cringe-worthy body noises that added that extra dimension to the horror on screen. (I thought only MY neck made that noise) The Sub vs. Dub battle goes decidedly to the Japanese cast, despite a strong showing from the English dubbers. Special mention goes to the latter for Tia Ballard's performance as Megumi as she fits the role so perfectly. I should also point out the equally splendid Japanese performance by Aoi Yuuki as Sunako.
This is a welcome title for anyone in the mood for a great blood-curdler, at 22 episodes long it is highly binge worthy with it's use of cliff-hanger endings and pace of plot. It adds legitimacy to the vampire as not only a tragic figure worthy of your sympathy, but also as beastly night stalkers who demand your fear. One of the best horror/suspense Anime I have ever seen and without a doubt the best vampire themed one, too. Overall 9/10. Check it out. Cheers!
