Notícias

One of Hollywood’s finest up-and-coming actors, Sydney Sweeney isn’t just the girl next door. She’s fierce and bold, and she can bring you down with one tear and then switch to wild party mode in the next scene. Whether she’s being messy, mysterious, or emotionally wrecked, trust us, this girl actually delivers.

Within a few years of her career, Sweeney went from “wait, I know her from somewhere” to full-on Hollywood It Girl. And honestly, she’s got the style. For the past few years, she has been crying in bathtubs, fighting in high school hallways, breaking hearts, casually looking flawless, and fixing cars. She is now showcasing her talent on big screens, tiny indie films, and everything in between.

Now, if you’ve missed her emotional rollercoasters, chaotic energy she brings on the screen, and powerful one-liners, it’s time to catch up. From HBO...

There is no doubt that Castlevania: Nocturne has provided some of the most iconic characters who are known for their physical or emotional strengths. However, Abbot Emmanuel is an anomaly in such a scenario, with not much to showcase strength-wise and also lacking in a strong will.

Even though he is one of the most pivotal characters in the story, he is also deeply flawed as a human. On top of that, despite being a Devil Forgemaster, he’s arguably the weakest of the bunch as his powers come from a machine, and it is not something that he actually possesses.

Still, he was definitely an intriguing character with immense potential to be a compelling villain, but his own lack of conviction reduced him to a tragic and hypocritical man.

The weak-willed Forgemaster of Castlevania: Nocturne

Abbot Emmanuel represents the flaws of humanity when faced with problems they cannot handle.

Castlevania is one of the most successful game-to-animation adaptations, and its popularity knows no bounds. Its alluring protagonist, coupled with a gritty plot and intense action scenes, has made it a perfect watch for plenty of non-gaming fans as well. The beautiful animation is just the cherry on top.

After receiving four seasons on Netflix, the franchise also received a sequel series called Castlevania: Nocturne. The latest installment expanded on the lore of the series even more and introduced new and treacherous characters. While fans are looking forward to season 3 of Nocturne, there are no guarantees that it will serve what people are expecting from it.

Fans are daydreaming about Castlevania: Nocturne season 3 way too soon

Castlevania: Nosturne season 3 has not even been confirmed yet, and fans are already in a rush to watch it on Netflix. Yes, the new season is not completely off the table yet, but directors...

The following contains spoilers from the April 14 episode of CBS’ NCIS.

Back at the start of the year, NCIS showrunner Steven D. Binder told my Inside Line column that Special Agent Timothy McGee (played by Sean Murray) would find himself attending the “dinner from hell.”

More from TVLineThe Handmaid's Tale Episode 4 Recap: Guess Who's Going Back In?!Vampires and Pirates and Illegal Abalone, Oh My! Why NCIS: Sydney Is a Perfect Friday-Night HangThe Voice's Last Season 27 Knockouts Leave Us Going Yodelayheehoo No!

Well, that ominous breaking of bread arrived this Monday night, when NCIS Deputy Director Gabriel Laroche (Castle‘s...

Despite being a spinoff of a beloved show, Castlevania: Nocturne has carved a niche for itself among Netflix’s animation adaptations with its brilliant story and sharp animation. The series has garnered immense praise and applause for the depth of its characters and the gripping nature of its story.

Its second season, which premiered on 16 January 2025, was also met with overwhelmingly positive reviews, and fans have since waited for the series to be renewed for a third season.

Richter Belmont alerted by Drolta’s cackle | Credits: Netflix

However, Netflix’s most recent announcement about the future of Adi Shankar’s Devil May Cry is a massive red flag for Castlevania: Nocturne‘s third season.

Netflix is favoring Devil May Cry over Castlevania: Nocturne Dante and Lady team up against the White Rabbit | Credits: Netflix

It’s well-known that Adi Shankar has been a key producer for several of Netflix’s successful animation adaptations.

Netflix’s Castlevania franchise is full of tragedy, but no character's story is more tragic than Alucard’s. Despite being one of the franchise’s main heroes, directors Sam and Adam Deats certainly demonstrate a penchant for putting him through pain. Alucard’s whole story in Castlevania can be summed up in four words: he didn’t deserve that.

Across four seasons of Castlevania and two seasons of Castlevania: Nocturne, Alucard does nothing wrong beyond bickering with Trevor or Richter. All he ever tries to do is be the good man his mother raised him to be and try to protect humanity, yet his life has been overflowing with suffering since the day his mother died.

Alucard Endures the Loss of His Mother Without His Father Castlevania Season 1, Episode 1 “Witchbottle” Image via Netflix

The debut episode of Netflix’s Castlevania series is heartwarming, tragic, and shocking all in under 25 minutes.

One of the things fans love about the Castlevania franchise is how gory it can be. Over the decades, the games have evolved, offering more graphic deaths to fit the macabre, supernatural world that has the Belmonts hunting vampires and other monsters. Netflix's Castlevania series dove into this hard, creating a bloody spectacle that viewers lapped up.

Season 1 of Castlevania: Nocturne is no different. This sequel series, set centuries later in France, doesn't hold back with its kills. As Richter Belmont and his allies try to stop the new vampire movement, brutal showdowns that end in death are inevitable, and some stand out more than others. Now that the second season of Nocturne has aired, there are plenty of more gruesome deaths and fates.

Updated on March 27, 2025, by Robbie Robinson: Nocturne is no perfect Castlevania adaptation, but it's still an awesome watch. One of the best parts of...

From religious themes to humanity, Castlevania brings out gothic horror brilliantly. There is no doubt that Powerhouse Studio outdid themselves through their brilliant animation. However, the writers abandoned one of the crucial features from the original series which might have been a big mistake.

Vlad Dracula Tepes in a still from the Castlevania series | Credit: Powerhouse Animation

To be precise, Grant Danasty’s exclusion from the animated series is something that both gamers and viewers find contentious. The character played a pivotal role in Dracula’s Curse which makes him all the more significant. But does it make the series an unfaithful adaptation?

Grant Danasty’s pivotal role in Dracula’s Curse

Dracula’s Curse is the third installment of the Castlevania game developed by Konami. The Netflix series is based on this version and has original characters from the RPG game. This includes the dhampir Alucard, hunter Trevor Belmont, and the speaker...

Sydney Sweeney’s new movie announcement suggests a shift in how Hollywood sources its stories. The Emmy-nominated actress, known for her roles in Euphoria and Anyone But You, is set to star and produce a movie based on a popular Reddit short story.

Sydney Sweeney | Credit: Jay Dixit/Cc-by-sa-4.0/Wikimedia Commons

While using internet-sourced stories may seem innovative, it raises concerns about the future of traditional storytelling, the role of professional screenwriters, and whether this shift marks the evolution of Hollywood or the beginning of its decline.

Sydney Sweeney to star and produce a movie based on a Reddit story

Ahead of the release of her new film, Eden, Sydney Sweeney has landed another project, I Pretended To Be A Missing Girl, which she will also produce under her production house Fifty Fifty Films.

The film is based on a popular Reddit story by a Massachusetts-based educator, Joe Cote. The Oscar-winning screenwriter,...

Carmilla takes the cake for being the wicked villain in Castlevania. But there is someone more cunning who blatantly got away with what she wanted. Yes, it is Lenore, the fan-favorite redhead who was somehow redeemed by the end of the series. But it is unbecoming and underserving in every single way.

Vlad Dracula Tepes in a still from the animated series | Credit: Powerhouse Animation

Her actions in the series are questionable despite her performative “humanity” toward Hector. The seduction and manipulation are a part of her charm to maneuver people according to her will. By the end of it all, it was a major disservice to the forge master and his painful experiences in the series.

Lenore’s redemption is unbecoming and undeserving

Lenore is every redhead stereotype you could think of. She is charming, attractive, manipulative, and contentious for the most part. This has to do with her characterization.

Netflix’s Castlevania: Nocturne is successfully carrying the legacy of the original show. Although set some 300 years later, the story revolves around a descendant of Trevor Belmont, the protagonist of Castlevania.

Annette in Castlevania: Nocturne | Credits: Netflix

While the descendant, Richter Belmont has his own demons to conquer, much like the games, he also has a terrific cast of characters to aid him at every step. This is one aspect where the anime surpasses anything the franchise has yet come up with.

The involvement of said characters, especially one in particular, changed the course of Castlevania: Nocturne greatly. In fact, some would argue that the character in question might just be one of the best characters in the franchise ever.

Castlevania: Nocturne left the games in the dust to come up one of the greatest characters ever

Castlevania has long established itself as one of the most popular franchises out there.

After seven long years after the official announcement, the Devil May Cry anime is finally on its way. With Adi Shankar of Castlevania fame at the helm, there is no doubt that the adaptation will be one of the best game adaptations in recent times.

Alucard draws his sword | Credit: Powerhouse Animation

The question is whether the adaptation can give Dante the treatment that made Castlevania’s Alucard one of Netflix’s most well-written characters. There is no exaggeration in saying that Alucard was so well-written that fans were tuning in to watch Castlevania: Nocturne solely cause he was in it.

When we look at it, in a way Dante is as cool as Alucard. He is stylish, cocky, and an excellent mercenary, what is not to like? So, could Dante of Devil May Cry be the next Alucard and carry the show on his own?

From Alucard to Dante:...

Castlevania masterfully crafts its characters through deep emotional turmoil, making them some of the most compelling figures in contemporary animation. Among them, two of Dracula’s closest, Alucard and Isaac, undergo dramatic transformations. While Alucard, his half-human son, is rescued by Trevor and Sypha, Isaac’s transformation stems largely from Dracula himself.

Dracula and Issac from Castlevania. | Credit: Powerhouse Animation Studios

Isaac, a devoted follower of Dracula, begins his journey convinced that humanity is beyond redemption. But his journey takes an unanticipated turn, not by the use of violence or revenge, but by acts of small kindness that gradually awaken his desire to live. Ironically, it was Dracula himself who planted the seeds of this transformation, leading Isaac toward something he never believed he could have: growth.

Dracula’s influence on Issac in Castlevania: The first act of kindness

In Castlevania, Dracula and Isaac share a bond rooted in suffering.

The Lord of the Rings is one of the most iconic and beloved fantasy franchises of all time. That might sound cliché, but there are few more accurate ways to describe this legendary franchise. From Tolkien's masterful novels to Peter Jackson's epic films to Prime Video's fantasy drama series, The Rings of Power, it's safe to say that The Lord of the Rings dominates the fantasy genre at every turn.

The Lord of the Rings might be one of the first series that comes to mind when thinking about epic fantasy media, but it's far from the only good example of the genre. The Rings of Power has some serious competition, especially with television series like Game of Thrones, Loki, and The Boys ongoing or in recent memory. This list will cover 10 television series that are so good that Lord of the Rings fans will probably love them.

Geralt...

Baldur’s Gate 3 is known for its customizable experience that gives players much freedom to approach the game in many different ways. Similarly, it is even possible to take on a Lotr-inspired Frodo challenge that offers a similar experience to take on his actual journey.

Baldur’s Gate 3 deserves to be at the top. Image Credit: Larian Studios

The Frodo challenge in Baldur’s Gate 3 is one of the most difficult challenges in the game, precisely because it requires you to take on the attributes of a halfling with limited weapons, no armor, and no combat abilities. Your only ally is your wit.

Even the most difficult RPG bows down to the Frodo challenge in Baldur’s Gate 3 Start the Frodo challenge by making a similar character. Image Credit: Larian Studios

The Frodo challenge requires you to adapt to a Hobbit-like playstyle, which comes with a lot of restrictions since Hobbits are not natural fighters.

Castlevania has given a magnificent retelling of the vampire lore with its own twists added to it. There are many characters who are exceptionally well-fleshed out in Castlevania. Be it characters that appear briefly or the main characters and antagonists who carry the narrative- they all have personality and depth.

Alucard and Dracula during their final fight right before Alucard stabs him | Credits: Mua Films

But when I look at the core of the story, I see that Alucard is the heart of Castlevania. From Symphony of the Night to Nocturne, the Tragic Prince is one of the most impactful characters, capable, confident, charming, and nonchalant.

Alucard has captivated fans for decades, and yet his full story remains untold. There are many parts of his life missing, like where was he when his mother was burned at the stake as a witch? The anime covers only certain parts of his life,...

Castlevania: Nocturne fans are eagerly looking forward to an official confirmation regarding the next installment of the show. This is no surprise given the track record of the series so far. The directors, Sam Deats and Adam Deats, seem to be in the same boat as the fandom. During an interview, they shared their vision for the potential third season of the show.

Alucard looks blankly at Richter in Castlevania: Nocturne | Credits: Netflix

It seems as if they are ready with a list of things they’d like to focus on in the next season. To the joy of fans, Alucard might stick around for longer, given how fondly the directors spoke about the character. Moreover, we also have a hint regarding what the next season might cover.

Castlevania: Nocturne directors share their plans about the potential season 3

Castlevania: Nocturne is the story of Richter Belmont, arguably the second...

In 2024, Prime Video released Batman: The Caped Crusader, reimagining the DC hero's mythos through the lens of Golden Age crime Noir. Casting Hamish Linklater as the voice of Bruce Wayne, the series has led fans on a tour of different but familiar versions of classic DC characters. From supernatural horror to Golden Age crime capers, the series proved to fans that the latest incarnation of the hero is a great one.

Batman: The Caped Crusader brings classic DC characters to life in a new light, giving them fresh designs, new motivations, and an all-new cast of voice actors. The series does a great job of walking the line between honoring its source material while also putting a new spin on Gotham and its residents. Fans of old-school crime movies and Golden Age DC have plenty to enjoy in the latest Batman animated show.

"In Treacherous Waters" Set The Tone For...

Castlevania: Nocturne had a rough start, and usually such anime with a bad or disappointing first season ends up falling and only going downhill. It is very important to have a strong base, and the starting episodes establish that.

Castlevania: Nocturne | Credit: Netflix

Without the setup for emotional impacts, the upcoming arcs will fall short when it comes to the effect or even when it comes to narrative importance. The first season of Castlevania: Nocturne was facing heavy comparisons to the original Castlevania anime.

Many fans found it underwhelming when compared to the mystery and intrigue-filled world that they were familiar with. But Castlevania: Nocturne did not stop there and came out with a second season that did wonders.

Season 2 was a redemption arc for Castlevania: Nocturne

Season 2 of Castlevania: Nocturne completely turned things around. Not only did it succeed in delivering stunning animation, thrilling fights packed with action, and stronger character development arcs.

The following contains spoilers for Castlevania: Nocturne Season 2, now streaming on Netflix.

As Season 2 of Castlevania: Nocturne unfolds, fans are privy to a very action-packed yet emotional tale of Richter Belmont's crew fighting back against the Vampire Messiah, Erzsebet, and Drolta. The heroes are hoping to stop a vampire apocalypse, with the epicenter of France being a bloody ground zero. Luckily, they have help, with the likes of Olrox assisting and Annette going into the spirit realm to help de-power the villains.

Interestingly, the heroes have one massive piece of conflict within their camp. It surrounds Maria Renard, a mage with the powers of a Speaker. The more fans learn about her story, the more this Netflix anime shapes a tale like Star Wars' Darth Vader and Obi-Wan Kenobi. But in this case, the concept of falling into darkness is done much better with higher personal stakes, and a lot more tragic potential.

Netflix’s Castlevania introduced a completely new band of fans to the vibrant characters of the video game franchise. Alucard has always been the poster boy of Castlevania and every season of the show brings forth a new aspect of the character. The only time the focus shifts from him is in Castlevania: Nocturne. Even then, it’s just a matter of time before he joins the cast again.

Alucard’s introduction in Castlevania | Credits: Netflix

The pattern so far highlights the priorities and focus of the Netflix series. It’s not difficult to predict what the future projects of the series might look like, and part of the reason also lies in the creative liberties the show has taken so far.

Castlevania’s focus on Alucard makes the series’ future quite clear

Castlevania began its short run on Netflix in 2017, with a four-episodes-long season. After that, we have gotten...

It is a known fact that Castlevania stands as one of the visually stunning vampire series produced by Netflix. From its themes to its characters, it made a mark in the gothic genre. But what carried it wasn’t simply the animation and storytelling but a move that eventually worked in its favor.

Dracula and Lisa Tepes | Credit: Powerhouse Animation

What followed was Cyberpunk: Edgerunners following in the Netflix series’ footsteps, which ultimately proved beneficial for its viewership. As the finest anime in the cyberpunk genre, it is indeed a visual treat, and Studio Trigger went the extra mile to ensure its masterpiece status.

Castlevania’s creative freedom spotlights its breakthrough

Castlevania isn’t merely an award-winning animated series but a revolutionary adaptation of the video game of the same name. Its storyline, characters, and animation serve as the perfect hook for viewers and gamers. And though it is loosely based on the game,...

It's always a shame when a good anime comes to an end. The characters have run their course. The story has reached its climax. Everything is wrapped up with a neat little bow. That usually means it's time to move on to the next anime in the series, but that isn't always the case.

Sometimes a good anime is followed by a sequel series that can stand alongside the original series. The characters may be older, or a different cast may be introduced. Either way, the story continues on, keeping its fans focused for another few seasons. Sometimes a series ending doesn't mean the story is truly over.

Rush Duels Return in Yu-Gi-Oh! Go Rush!! Streaming on Disney+

Yu-Gi-Oh! Go Rush!! isn't exactly a sequel to Yu-Gi-Oh! Sevens. It actually takes place in between the series' events. However, that just gives the newest incarnation of Yu-Gi-Oh! a reason to continue...

One of the most iconic parts of the Castlevania games is that Dracula always returns. Even after the Belmont family fights tooth and nail to defeat the vampire, he comes back to terrorize humanity all over again. So, it wouldn’t be a surprise if Castlevania: Nocturne follows the same route.

Dracula from Castlevania. [Credit: Netflix]

While Drolta Tzuente is the main antagonist of the first two seasons of Castlevania: Nocturne, Dracula could be the potential one for season 3 or a new spin-off series. The Netflix adaptation has immense potential for several Castlevania stories.

Dracula is also undeniably a fan favorite of both video game and Netflix series fans. However, if Castlevania: Nocturne were to introduce him into the storyline, they’d have to tread lightly and write it in a way that makes sense.

How will Castlevania: Nocturne bring Dracula back if they decide to do this?

Dracula’s death...

The following contains spoilers for Castlevania: Nocturne Season 2, now streaming on Netflix.

As Netflix charted its initial slate of Castlevania stories, the anime remixed the games and streamlined to tell a more cohesive story for the TV medium. This enabled the streaming service to create a narrative that, while it was sped-run, allowed Trevor Belmont, Sypha Belnades and Alucard, the son of Dracula, to defeat the vampire king and reunite the human part of his soul with his beloved Lisa in the afterlife.

Season 2 of Castlevania: Nocturne continues the sequel centuries later. It focuses on whom many consider the worst, most boring Belmont of the lot: Trevor's descendant, Juste. However, because of key changes made, Juste is layered with nuance and purpose. In the process, he becomes one of the coolest characters the Netflix anime has unleashed.

Related10 Strongest Characters In Castlevania: Nocturne

Now with two seasons, Netflix's Castlevania: Nocturne...

The following contains spoilers for Castlevania: Nocturne Season 2, now streaming on Netflix.

One of the most intriguing characters in Castlevania: Nocturne Season 1 was none other than Juste Belmont. His role wasn't like his ancestor, Trevor, from the initial Netflix anime. While Trevor was a swashbuckling hunter, Juste was a recluse. Instead, the warrior role went to Juste's grandson, Richter.

Juste had a more personal, heartbreaking arc that showed how the mystical wars in this fantasy world damaged people. He had Ptsd and demons in his closet that crafted an emotive arc on mental health. Come Castlevania: Nocturne Season 2, Juste gets to heal and becomes somewhat whole again. As this occurs, it gives Juste's voice actor, Iain Glen, the arc that the Titans TV series failed to offer him when he suited up as a DC icon.

Related10 Strongest Characters In Castlevania: Nocturne

Now with two seasons, Netflix's Castlevania: Nocturne shows...

The following contains spoilers for Castlevania: Nocturne Season 2, now streaming on Netflix.

One of the most intriguing, unapologetic aspects of Netflix's Castlevania anime was its LGBTQ stance. This was done through the lens of the son of Dracula, Alucard. He had some steamy scenes, including an orgy that confirmed he was bisexual. It upset some fans of the iconic game, but many vampire genre loyalists had no problem because of the homoerotic nature of several vampire stories in pop culture.

The streaming service continued charting ground in terms of visibility and representation with the sequel. As Season 2 of Castlevania: Nocturne unfolds, though, there is one particular relationship that has come under the radar for feeling thin. This is none other than that between Erzsebet Báthory and Drolta, which many deem a queer relationship. However, while it's never confirmed, there is evidence to suggest they had feelings for each other in...

Castlevania is a visually stunning yet compelling vampire story with well-written characters. The Netflix anime is slowly gaining recognition for its well-put and thought-of storyline. And while it is an adaptation of the Konami game, it brings out the gothic elements brilliantly.

This is evident in its landscape, setting as well as animation that seamlessly blends within the premise. An important part of this is the friction between both Dracula as well as his son Alucard. But the series may have missed out on a major detail while fleshing out the dhampir’s story.

Alucard is attacked by his father in the castle | Credit: Powerhouse Animation

Most importantly, the creators skimmed through the character’s story which had fans raising several questions. This also leaves room for several inconsistencies that are yet to be fleshed out properly in the anime. But the series did one thing right nonetheless.

In their writing of Dracula’s character,...

In terms of video game adaptations, Castlevania is considered to be one of the greatest ones ever created, as the series has everything viewers could ask for. From thrilling dramas to eye-catching battle scenes, Castlevania is a complete package, and thus, the series has been developed into two different storylines: Castlevania and Castlevania: Nocturne.

Castlevania: Nocturne Series | Credit: Powerhouse Animation Studios

And while the animated TV series is a complete package, the one thing that is missing from both series is the backstories of the main characters. A backstory or a past flashback is an integral part of a character’s development, which also contributes a lot to their present and future actions. They also add more substance to the character and their significance in the story.

However, Castlevania has missed out on introducing the backstories of major characters like Trevor Belmont, Sypha Belnades, Dracula, etc. Even the sequel spin-off...

This article discusses events in Castlevania: Nocturne Season 2 and will contain spoilers.

Castlevania: Nocturne is the sequel to Netflix’s shining glory of vampiric animated series, Castlevania. It premiered in late September 2023, written by Clive Bradley and directed by Sam and Adam Deats. Overall, it had a positive reception, rating 96% on Rotten Tomatoes, and was eventually greenlit for another full season, which was released in mid-January of this year.

Despite Nocturne being largely well-received by audiences, the first season had its flaws, which rendered it a lackluster sequel in the wake of the high expectations of returning Castlevania fans. However, while the first season dragged on with its questionable pacing, the second season eventually picked up the story and characters and carried them all the way to an amazing finale that viewers will never forget.

RelatedCastlevania: Nocturne's Season 2 Ending, Explained

Season 2 of Castlevania: Nocturne ends on a very explosive,...

Quick LinksWhat Happened Between Olrox and Alucard?How Did Alucard Know About Sekhmet's Temple?Will Richter Belmont Keep Hunting Olrox?Are Mizrak & Richter Going to Fight?Why Is Maria So Powerful?What Is Old Man Coyote's Endgame?Will Saint Domingue Accept Edouard & Richter?Will Tera Create Her Own Legion?What Is Juste's Plan For Maria?Do Infernal Machines Still Exist?

Castlevania: Nocturne Season 2 featured a myriad of arcs finally intersecting. Richter Belmont and Annette had to work together to bring down the Vampire Messiah: Erzsebet Báthory. All while Juste Belmont (Richter's grandfather) had to contend with his magic returning and if his charge, Maria, would give into black magic.

Luckily, the heroes foiled Erzsebet and the villain pulling her strings, Drolta – however, the Castlevania: Nocturne Season 2 finale was anything but a straightforward ending. The anime left fans with countless questions thanks to cliffhangers that won't get answered unless Castlevania: Nocturne Season 3 gets greenlit.

Note: The following article contains major spoilers for Netflix's Castlevania: Nocturne Season 2.

Since its premiere in the fall of 2023, Netflix and Powerhouse Animation Studios' Castlevania: Nocturnehas received positive critical reception similar to its predecessor, drawing fans into a revolutionary battle for the fate of the mortal world. In a land where magic takes many forms, characters exhibit a wide range of skill sets but build upon similar foundations to achieve a series of effects. Blood, strength, and spirit become the vehicle for all abilities, with a handful of characters possessing enough power to vanquish anything in their path.

With the conclusion of its eight-episode second season, Castlevania: Nocturne redefined the limits of its characters' magic. The creation of new threats was met with the cultivation of ancient powers, creating a murderous tête-à-tête between the forces of light and darkness, and allowing each side to level up to astounding degrees.

Long-time Castlevania fans love the characterization of Juste Belmont, although he is still quite underrated in the Netflix animation. In the video game franchise, he is the protagonist of Castlevania: Harmony of Dissonance as his much younger counterpart.

Juste Belmont from Castlevania: Harmony of Dissonance. [Credit: Konami]

Fans of the original video games hail him as the hottest Belmont and in a strange but unsurprising turn of events, still find him attractive in the Netflix adaptation. The love and attention he’s getting from the Castlevania fandom, old and new alike, is beginning to reach new heights.

Ever since the spin-off series, Castlevania: Nocturne, and his introduction, fans have been more interested in seeing his youthful appearance in the Powerhouse Animation Studios style. This calls for an adaptation of Castlevania: Harmony of Dissonance.

Fans haven’t been subtle about wanting more Juste Belmont

While Juste was always an underrated character, his legacy has always been strong.

Dracula and Alucard couldn’t be more opposite each other in Castlevania, despite being father and son. The main villain of the series has a deep-rooted hatred for human beings for killing his human wife, Lisa Tepes, after suspecting her of witchcraft.

While some find his hatred of humanity justified, it doesn’t excuse his actions and Alucard breaks this exact cycle. His son embraces it with open arms and has experienced love multiple times in the 336 years of his life. Castlevania challenges the classic vampire trope of having one love interest.

Alucard and Greta from Castlevania. [Credit: Netflix]

Classic vampire series like Twilight limit themselves by portraying Edward Cullen’s idea of romance as being manipulative and possessive over Bella Swan. While he is significantly younger than Alucard, it’s hard to believe the vampire hasn’t been interested in anyone else in his life.

This is why Castlevania fans absolutely adore Alucard’s character.

January 16, 2025, saw the release of the second season of Castlevania: Nocturne on Netflix. The series is the spin-off of the Castlevania anime series adapted from the popular Japanese video game. The second season of Castlevania: Nocturne came as a shock to many fans because it was exceptionally better than the first season.

Castlevania: Nocturne | Credit: Powerhouse Animation

Although the franchise as a whole is a commercial success, the first season of Castlevania: Nocturne was heavily criticized by the fans for a lot of reasons. From the character developments to the narrative progression, almost every aspect of the series failed to grasp the viewers’ attention, and thus releasing the second season was a huge risk that the creators took.

However, somehow the second season of Castlevania: Nocturne managed to save its reputation by bringing a better storyline and disregarding most of the audience’s opinion. The creator and writer of the series.

After a two-year wait, Castlevania‘s dark world returns with Nocturne Season 2 on Netflix. Based on the popular Konami video game, the series follows Richter Belmont (Edward Bluemel) as he battles vampires and other fearsome monsters amid the French Revolution.

Despite it only being January, the second season of Castlevania: Nocturne is already a strong contender for the best animated series of the year, which speaks volumes about its impact and acclaim.

Richter Belmont in a still from Castlevania: Nocturne Season 2 | Credits: Netflix

The series first premiered back in 2023, two years after the fourth and final season of the original Castlevania.

Season 2 of Nocturne is faster, more furious, and more exhilarating, yet it still adds depth to its characters, though it might have overlooked the golden rule of storytelling by prioritizing too much on beloved characters.

Did Castlevania: Nocturne Season 2 sacrifice storytelling for character depth?

Castlevania: Nocturne Season 2 picks up immediately where Season 1 left off.

When you purchase through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

If you loved Sydney Sweeney’s performances in dark and moody films like Immaculate and Nocturne. Then you might be in luck as according to Deadline, Sweeney is reportedly in talks to star in The Masque of the Red Death, which is based on the story of the same name by Edgar Allen Poe.

The short story revolves around a prince who locks himself into his abbey to save himself from a dangerous plague known as the Red Death. While this may be the inspiration for the upcoming film, the exact plot for the Polinger film is still being kept under wraps.

A24 and Picturestart are teaming up for the film, with Charlie Polinger taking on writing and directing duties. Polinger will also be the film’s executive producer alongside Lucy McKendrick.

Polinger is currently working on The Plague,...

Editor's Note: The following contains spoilers for Castlevania: Nocturne Season 2.Castlevania: Nocturne's second season launches straight into the building confrontation, continuing the story of Erzsebet Báthory's (Franka Potente) growing power, Alucard's (Richard Dormer) arrival, and Richter (Edward Bluemel), Annette (Thuso Mbedu), and Maria's (Pixie Davies) efforts to stop her. Yet, a few elements not from Season 1 play a role in the story, and the most mysterious addition is the silent and frightening Mephistopheles. In truth, the shadowy figure does little in the plot, but he contributes a level of creepiness to every scene he is in. Always appearing near death, Mephistopheles has many names. While Olrox (Zahn McClarnon), who sees him the most, refers to him as Old Man Coyote, Mizrak (Aaron Neil) calls him a devil, but whatever he is called, he seems dangerous.

Editor's Note: The following contains spoilers for Season 2 of Castlevania: Nocturne.Castlevania: Nocturne's second season resolved much of the show's story. Beginning minutes after Season 1's conclusion the new episodes explore the heroes' next steps as Alucard (James Callis), Ritcher (Edward Bluemel), and Annette (Thuso Mbedu) look for a way to stop Erzsebet Báthory (Franka Potente) and Drolta (Elarica Johnson) from uniting Sekhmet's soul and Maria (Pixie Davies) faces the darkness within herself. Despite the epic battle that ends in victory for the heroes, there are some open-ended elements to the season finale as well. There is not yet confirmation of Castlevania: Nocturne getting a third season, but whether it is in a third season or a new spinoff, these cliffhangers demand further exploration.

While humanity was saved again in the last episode of Netflix's Castlevania: Nocturne, it still left plenty of key pieces of setup for Season 3.

The latest season of the Castlevania sequel series, Nocturne, came to an explosive end with the defeat of Erzsebet Báthory (Franka Potente), the self-declared Vampire Messiah, and her loyal servant, Drolta (Elarica Johnson).

However, that doesn't mean that the adventure is over for Richter Belmont (Edward Bluemel), Maria Renard (Pixie Davies), and Annette (Thuso Mbedu). The season concluded with both groups splitting up, potentially leaving them vulnerable to new dangers.

Read full article on The Direct.

Editor's Note: The following contains spoilers for Castlevania: Nocturne Season 2.The second season of Castlevania: Nocturne, the sequel to Netflix's original Castlevania series, concludes with its heroes successfully defeating Countess Erzsebet Báthory (Franka Potente), a self-proclaimed Vampire Messiah intent upon plunging the world into eternal darkness. To call the conflict a hard-won victory is an understatement, especially since Nocturne's protagonists couldn't have triumphed without special intervention. Thanks to Annette (Thuso Mbedu), the soul of Sekhmet (Nicola F. Delgado), the ancient goddess whose powers the tyrannical Erzsebet intends to inherit, returns to the mortal realm long enough to thwart Erzsebet. But why is Sekhmet such an integral part of Erzsebet's bloodthirsty plans?...

Editor's Note: The following contains spoilers for Season 2 of Castlevania: Nocturne.Castlevania: Nocturne's new season may center on Richter (Edward Bluemel), Annette (Thuso Mbedu), and Alucard's (James Callis) mission to defeat Erzsebet Báthory (Franka Potente) as she tries to harness the power of Sekhmet, but the most compelling storyline of Season 2 is about Maria Rennard (Pixie Davies). Picking up where Season 1 left off, Maria is in a bad place after her father, the Abbot (Richard Dormer), tried to sacrifice her to the vampires only for her mother, Tera (Nastassja Kinski), to take her place, getting turned into a vampire herself. This tragedy sets Maria on a dark path. In Season 1, she was a young vampire hunter and revolutionary, and she still is that. However, Season 2 shows her struggling with a darkness that can be seen in her powers.

Castlevania: Nocturne, a spin-off to Netflix’s Castlevania, premiered in 2023. Similar to the original series, the first installment of the spin-off was a set-up season and left a lot to be desired. With the sequel season’s recent release, a lot of the questions fans had are getting answered. Castlevania: Nocturne Season 2 started slow, but had fans hooked by the end with new developments.

Richter Belmont, the protagonist of Castlevania: Nocturne | Credits: Netflix

Sam Deats and Adam Deats, the directors of the show, shared the potential direction of the series during an interview. They also talked about the production process. One key decision that made Nocturne stand out was also debated at multiple points throughout the series. So, what was this decision?

Castlevania: Nocturne Director shared the one question that kept popping up during production

The first season ended on a huge cliffhanger with Drolta’s death. Castlevania: Nocturne Season 2 was released on January 16th,...

Netflix’s Castlevania series is one of the most successful animated adaptations of a video game to date. With four stunning seasons and a beloved spin-off, Castlevania: Nocturne is making waves online after the release of its highly anticipated second season.

Richter Belmont from Castlevania: Nocturne. [Credit: Netflix]

Castlevania: Nocturne Season 2 picks up immediately where Season 1 left off. The show maintains its politically charged energy in the second season, sending Richter Belmont and his allies to the front lines of the interclass war tearing 18th-century France apart.

Season 2 rebuilds our protagonists and the ensemble cast as much as it continues their story. Interestingly, Nocturne directors Adam and Sam Deats shared their thoughts on how they shaped the protagonist, Richter, drawing comparisons to iconic anime figures like Goku and Naruto.

Castlevania: Nocturne directors reveal their take on Richter Belmont’s character

Castlevania: Nocturne has made its highly anticipated return with Season 2 on Netflix.

Castlevania and its spin-off/sequel, Castlevania: Nocturne, are among the finest animated efforts we've had from Netflix. The shows, based on the popular Japanese video game series of the same name courtesy of Konami, are well-known for their distinctive anime-inspired, imperfect, and striking animation and dark narratives that aren't afraid to address complex issues in service of a traditional monster-hunting story. Both series center on the Belmont Clan of vampire hunters. The original Castlevania takes place in the mid-14th century and follows Trevor Belmont's (Richard Armitage) efforts to protect Walachia, modern-day Romania, from Dracula (Graham McTavish) and other vampire threats. Nocturne is set three hundred years later in French Revolution France and follows Trevor's descendant, Richter Belmont (Edward Bluemel), as he battles Erzsebet Bathory (Franka Potente), the so-called "vampire messiah."...

The following contains spoilers for Castlevania: Nocturne Season 2, now streaming on Netflix.

As Season 2 of Castlevania: Nocturne unravels, the story, thankfully, becomes better balanced. It showcases more of the ensemble cast, giving them much needed character-development outside of Richter Belmont. One of these figures is Olrox: the Mesoamerican vampire, who has an aristocratic edge.

Season 1 had him answering the call when the Hungarian, Countess Erzsebet Báthory, summoned all vampires to assemble in France. She, as their queen and the self-proclaimed "messiah," heralded them as she anted to wage war against Europe. Unfortunately, as conflicted as he was, Olrox didn't help the heroes in the actual battle. In fact, he had macabre skeletons in his closer. However, the new season has him attaining redemption, while setting up an interesting final chapter in his life.

Related 10 Best Netflix Original Anime Series Based on Video Game Franchises

Netflix has showcased some excellent adaptations of video games,...

"Castlevania: Nocturne" season 2 sets up a lot of interesting threads for a potential season 3 and wraps up most of the big arcs from season 1. At the same time, the show hasn't fully answered one of its biggest mysteries, which has to do with the new kind of night creatures created by Abbott Emmanuel (Richard Dormer).

In the original "Castlevania" series, night creatures are created by devil forgemasters, human sorcerers who use a specific breed of dark magic to channel souls from hell into dead bodies, transforming them into monstrous creatures. These forgemasters each channel their spells through a specific, unique tool, and the monsters they create are loyal to them. In most cases, the souls channeled into the night creatures don't seem to be the same ones that the bodies housed in life, but there are some apparent exceptions to that rule. In general, though, night creatures are shown to be pretty mindless.

In the modern age of streaming, very few shows last longer than a season or two. Netflix has developed perhaps the worst cancellation reputation of all streaming services. While the company commissions and produces a ton of original content every year, very little of it lasts the many years that shows often got in the old days of traditional TV. Of course, there are exceptions, and with the release of "Castlevania: Nocturne" season 2, there's a big one.

Yes, this is only the second season of "Nocturne," but if you count it as an extension of the original "Castlevania" series, it's season 6. Most sequel series are their own distinct entities, but in the case of the "Castlevania" team, many core members made the transition between the two shows. Original creator, showrunner, and writer Warren Ellis was dropped from the franchise in between the shows after allegations of misconduct, and was replaced...

Netflix's Castlevania: Nocturne is a thrilling extension of Castlevania, delivering gothic action, dark lore, and gritty characters. As fans eagerly await the return of the beloved series for its second season, a shadow of uncertainty looms over its future. Steve Stark, the supervising background designer for the series, recently took to social media to highlight an uncomfortable truth that the show’s survival hinges on viewer engagement.

Stark's tweet is both a rallying cry for fans and a sobering reminder of the precarious nature of streaming content. Despite Nocturne's critical success and loyal fanbase, its fate ultimately rests in the hands of Netflix’s notoriously data-driven approach to renewals.

Viewer Engagement Is Key to Castlevania's Survival on Netflix Staff Members Delivers a Call for Action to Fans Who Want More Castlevania in the Future If you loved Castlevania: Nocturne and want more of it, or more animated Castlevania in general,...

Unlike the original Castlevania seasons 1 and 2, Castlevania: Nocturne fell overwhelmingly short and has no hopes of saving at this point. The story feels very weak, and the characters are shallow, the dialogue is a bit clichéd, and even the pacing’s really clumsy.

Richter from Castlevania: Nocturne | Credits: Netflix, Powerhouse Animation, Frederator Studios

However, one can also notice that enough effort was put into this latest season by the Studio itself, just in the hope of a surge in popularity. There are a few good moments here and there, but all thanks to the amazing animation and the staff from the studio working on this adaptation.

The animation temporarily saved Castlevania: Nocturne from an immediate downfall A still from the Castlevania series | Credits: Netflix, Powerhouse Animation, Frederator Studios

The original Castlevania series took a rather disappointing turn after its second season. Seasons 3 and 4 relied quite heavily on the show’s animation to carry the story,...