Vanitas 2nd Season
Finally, the second season of everyone’s favourite steampunk vampire drama has ended, leaving a hole in our hearts the size of a “sexy Victorian anime character.” We went to the remote town of Gévaudan for a Beauty and the Beast-themed arc, discovered more about Vanitas’ complex past, and even received some sweet romantic filler material to make up for the missing time. Does this most recent chapter of Jun Mochizuki’s exhilarating journey hold up as a whole, though? Check out Season 2 of The Case Study of Vanitas now!
Mild Spoilers Ahead!
Mysteries Upon Mysteries
Finding out more about the backstories of the key characters and how those experiences formed them into the persons they are today is by far the most fascinating aspect of this season. We discover more about the impact Louis’ passing had on Noé and Dominique’s relationship, as well as how a little misunderstanding temporarily forced Domi to drastically alter her look. In addition, Vanitas’ strange past is finally partially revealed, spanning from his time as a test subject for a lunatic scientist to his new life with his brother Mikhail and their “father,” Vanitas of the Blue Moon.
We adore these puzzles because of how closely they mesh with the individuals’ present-day selves. The terrible events in these individuals’ pasts have an impact on them in subtle and genuine ways in The Case Study of Vanitas, unlike other tragic anime backstories that are merely presented as an explanation for why a character is wicked or has a certain quirk. Because of his extreme self-hatred, which is at least partially a result of killing his own “father,” Vanitas acts pompous and haughty to keep people away, pursues unhealthy relationships, and lashes out violently at anyone who tries to comprehend him better. Because of how well-developed his personality is and the fact that we know how he came to be this way, he is still a likeable character.
New Romantic Developments
Speaking of unhealthy relationships, this season sure has its share of love turmoil! The Case Study of Vanitas is likely best recognise for its extremely hot and turbulent romantic plotlines, in addition to its excellent writing and stunning design. Although their relationship is primarily platonic because Chloe is trappe in a juvenile form, Chloe and Jean-Jacques from the “Beast of Gévaudan” arc make a cute couple and their love for one another is admirable. Noé and Domi share some wonderful moments as well, demonstrating how much they still care for one another despite everything they have been through.
However, Vanitas and Jeanne receive the majority of the development. They both independently realise that they genuinely have affections for each other after spending a steamy night together in a deserted cabin to escape the cold and immediately freak out about it. We particularly enjoy seeing Jeanne flit from being a competent soldier. Who isn’t distracte by how hot her “nemesis” is and Vanitas desperately attempting to obtain advise from Roland, who, as a chasseur, isn’t really on his side but is eager to help anyhow.
We would also be negligent if we failed to bring up the rising conflict between Vanitas and Noé. Whose acrimonious friendship encounters its greatest obstacle yet in the season finale. Even though they aren’t a pair in the traditional sense. The intense bi energy that emanates from them both gives their dynamic a depth that we wouldn’t otherwise notice.
Doesn’t Come Together as a Whole Package
Nevertheless, the season as a whole seems a little fragmented despite how fantastic each of these moments is individually. With the exception of some additional details on the mysterious Naenia. How the world formula can changed, the “Beast of Gévaudan” arc, which takes up more than half. The running time, does not significantly advance the broader plot. Although it’s a welcome addition to the show, the story feels more like filler than it should. Additionally, because of this, the final episode ends on a significant cliffhanger. Which leaves the audience feeling a little let down. The season still feels unfinished despite. The fact that we presume this is because the anime has, for the most part, caught up to the manga. At this point and is reluctant to reveal all of its secrets at once. We hope that new plot developments that relate to what we’ve seen here in upcoming episodes of the series will make up for this odd pacing.
Final Thoughts
The Case Study of Vanitas Season 2 is wonderfully animate, set in a highly drawn environment. Packed with likeable people whose quirks make them all the more compelling. And if it fails in areas, it’s well worth your time. If you appreciated what the first season had to offer. We can’t wait for season 3!
What do you think about our evaluation? Have you seen this anime since the winter of 2022? Thank you so much for reading, and do let us know in the comments!
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