Viewers of Black Butler, rejoice—more Black Butler is on the way! The Black Butler, not to be confused with the same-named Chainsaw Man storyline In the Public School Arc, Ciel Phantomhive enrols in the esteemed Weston College public school to look into the disappearance of a few children at Queen Victoria's request. Seeking the truth behind this mystery, the two traverse the school's many ancient traditions and rigorous hierarchy with the help of their trusty demonic butler, Sabastian, who is posing as a new housemaster. Along the way, they meet a diverse cast of individuals.
Admittedly, Black Butler is a series that's always been on the periphery of the anime community for me. I know it has a large and passionate fan base that's endured for more than a decade despite lengthy gaps between new seasons. I'm genuinely happy for these folks that the series is back and, after seeing this first episode, now understand why it's resonated with so many. Boy, there sure are a lot of cute boys and hot guys doing quirky stuff in this episode of anime! If you're a fan of the series already, I think it's safe to say you're going to love what this new season has in store.If you're as fresh to the show as I am, you should definitely start with the anime, but even if you're not, this episode still has a lot to offer.
To start, CloverWorks is adept at prioritizing the animation, as evidenced by the numerous fancam moments dedicated to Ciel, Sebastian, and the several new males who join the ensemble this season. Plenty of humor originating from the antiquated customs at the heart of Weston College's culture can also be found, such as the return of the protag running with toast in their mouth bit and Sebastian's overzealousness causing problems for Ciel.
However, this is where my main issue with the show begins. Weston College and the majority of its student body appear to be a deliberate parody of private education and the elitism that such an institution may create. However, the characters refer to it as a public school in what seems like every other line of dialogue! I'm not sure if there's a cultural barrier between my decidedly American background and the Japanese culture from which Black Butler originated, or if this is a quirk of the Black Butler franchise, but it bothered me every time this incongruity occurred. It may be that I'm taking this series too seriously, or maybe the seemingly incorrect language was intentionally used to highlight the ridiculous culture at this school, but I couldn't stop laughing during the entire episode.
Of course, it shouldn't deter anyone from watching this show, and I would appreciate it if any fans of Black Butler could get in touch with me and let me know if I'm missing any jokes. I can take this program where it is and enjoy the odd bit of Britishness that appears in the translation in the meantime.
On April 14, Black Butler will make its Crunchyroll debut.
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