Television Review: Trinity Blood
What Parents Should Know
Parents need to know that this mature, gothic anime series
is about a group of vampires out to dominate post-Armageddon
civilization -- which means that scenes frequently depict heavy
violence involving spears, blood, and guts. The vampires are
often ruthless in seeking their prey; their determination might
scare younger viewers who tune in looking for lighter
sci-fi/action animated fare. In other words, the show is part
of Cartoon Network's Adult Swim line-up for a reason.
Families can talk about the show's complicated premise and
mythology. What do you think would happen to the world after an
Armageddon-like event? Do you think peace would be possible?
Why do you think vampires are such popular mythological
characters in movies, TV shows, and books? What do people find
so appealing about them?
In the decidedly adult-oriented anime series TRINITY BLOOD, vampires have descended upon civilization and threaten the world's peace. Five hundred years after Armageddon, peace reigns. New cities have been built in the gothic style, and high-tech airships patrol from above. But a group of evil vampires, thought extinct by many, prowl the night turning order into chaos. Dispatched by the Vatican to help keep people safe from the vampires, priest Abel Nightroad (voiced by Troy Baker) is part of the protective force called the Defenders. Nightroad has a unique perspective on the situation, since he's a vampire himself. He has a complicated relationship with young Ester (Colleen Clinkenbeard), whose importance eventually becomes clear.
Based on the Japanese manga by Yoshida Sunao and Kiyo Kyuujou, Trinity Blood is entertaining and fast-paced, with remarkably lifelike characters and sharp, often-funny dialogue. But each episode also has plenty of tense, scary scenes, which might turn off sensitive viewers. The vampires employ sabers tucked beneath their cloaks to stab and fend off their enemies, resulting in very gory scenes featuring blood, guts, and even disembowelment.
The show's complex relationship with and treatment of religion also marks it as a show for mature audiences. Parents should definitely pre-screen before letting anyone besides older teens tune in -- this show is part of the late-night Adult Swim line-up for a reason.
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