In the crowded landscape of this season’s anime offerings, “Delico’s Nursery” stands out as a compelling new addition. The show follows a unique premise involving a group of noble vampires who must tackle a series of enigmatic murders within their community. The twist? Their star investigator, Dali Delico, has opted out of the case to focus on a more personal mission: caring for his children following his wife’s death.
The Premise of Delico’s Nursery
“Delico’s Nursery” is a comedy-drama that juxtaposes the dark world of vampires with the challenges of parenting. The plot revolves around a series of murders linked to cryptic messages about the legendary True of Vamp (TRUMP), purported to be the original vampire. The vampiric governing body, the Vlad Organization, suspects the killer is searching for the TRUMP and eliminating anyone they deem not to be the true vampire.
The investigation is initially handed to the top vampires, including Dali Delico. However, Dali, who is grappling with his wife’s recent death, refuses the assignment. He reveals to his colleagues that his wife Frieda’s final wish was for him to care for their two sons as she would have. Despite his friends’ objections, Dali remains steadfast, leading to a compromise: he will investigate the murders if he and his colleagues also take on the responsibility of looking after their children. Thus, the team, including Gerhard Fra, Henrique Lorca, and Dino Classico, finds themselves juggling vampire mysteries with childcare duties.
Unique Art Style and Storytelling
“Delico’s Nursery” distinguishes itself with a distinctive art style courtesy of J.C. Staff. The animation features a sketchy, gothic aesthetic that mirrors the show’s dark themes, creating a visual experience reminiscent of classic book illustrations. This artistic choice complements the series’ unique blend of horror and humor, effectively balancing the macabre mystery with the comedic elements of parenting.
The show’s charm lies in its ability to intertwine a gripping murder mystery with the everyday trials of fatherhood. The dynamic of the noble vampires grappling with mundane childcare tasks provides both comedic relief and poignant moments, enriching the narrative with emotional depth.
Characters and Dynamics
The series’ central characters are as intriguing as its premise.
Dali Delico: The main character, a devoted father and noble vampire, struggles to fulfill his late wife’s wishes while managing his role in the investigation. His sons, Raphael and Ul, are central to the narrative, highlighting the challenges of balancing personal and professional responsibilities.
Gerhard Fra: Dali’s frenemy and fellow investigator, Gerhard is a stickler for appearances and is often frustrated by his son Angelico’s sensitivity. His interactions with his son provide a humorous contrast to the otherwise serious tone of the series.
Henrique Lorca: Known for his laid-back approach, Henrique is the father of twin girls, Lucia and Elena, who are accustomed to getting their way. His comedic disposition adds a lighthearted touch to the show.
Dino Classico: The enigmatic member of the group, Dino’s son Theodore is the quietest of the children. Dino’s self-perception as a great father is challenged by Theodore’s emotional distance, adding complexity to his character.
Why You Should Watch
“Delico’s Nursery” offers a refreshing take on the vampire genre with its combination of gothic aesthetics and family-focused storytelling. Fans of anime that explore unique family dynamics will find much to appreciate in the series. The contrast between the high-stakes mystery and the endearing struggles of the fathers creates a captivating viewing experience.
The show’s animation style, character development, and thematic depth make it a standout choice for anime enthusiasts seeking something new and engaging. As the narrative progresses, viewers can look forward to seeing how the fathers’ relationships with their children evolve and how they tackle the central mystery of the TRUMP.
In conclusion, “Delico’s Nursery” promises to be a hit, blending the intrigue of a vampire murder mystery with the heartwarming and often humorous realities of parenthood. Its unique artistic approach and compelling character dynamics ensure it stands out in the current anime landscape.