Unveiling the Hidden Charms: Why 'As Miss Beelzebub Likes it.' Defies Demonic Expectations

© matoba (author and illustrator), LIDENFILMS (studio), Square Enix (publishing company) | www.animenewsnetwork.com

Step into a refreshingly unconventional underworld with 'As Miss Beelzebub Likes it.', the delightful anime that masterfully reimagines the demonic realm. Far from the grim, foreboding landscapes typically associated with Hell, this October 2018 LIDENFILMS production invites viewers into a surprisingly wholesome slice-of-life comedy set within the vibrant chaos of Pandemonium. The series is brimming with clever nuances and fascinating insights that truly bring its unique world to life, offering a charming escape from traditional dark fantasy narratives.

At the heart of this charming series is the titular Beelzebub herself, a character who gleefully defies all traditional expectations. Instead of a monstrous, malevolent 'Lord of the Flies,' viewers are introduced to an adorably air-headed, perpetually sleepy demon lord whose greatest obsession is anything soft and fluffy. This central conceit forms the series' most brilliant comedic pillar. Beelzebub's formidable reputation as the former ruler of Hell is constantly, and hilariously, contrasted with her current reality: a penchant for napping, easy distraction by plush objects, and a surprisingly affectionate demeanor, especially towards her new, long-suffering attendant, Mullin. This deliberate transformation of a powerful demonic figure into a 'moe' character cleverly underpins the entire world-building, where other infamous demons are likewise given unexpectedly endearing personalities, solidifying the series' distinct blend of humor and warmth. Her unpredictable whims and innocent desires are the driving force behind many of the show's most heartwarming and comical moments, making her an instantly lovable protagonist despite her fearsome title.

Even Mullin, Beelzebub's perpetually flustered attendant, carries a subtle, amusing secret within his very name for Japanese speakers. His name, 'Mullin' (ミュリン), cleverly echoes 'murin' (無理), which translates to 'impossible' or 'unreasonable.' This linguistic play perfectly encapsulates his daily existence, navigating the 'unreasonable' and often chaotic whims of Beelzebub and Pandemonium's eccentric inhabitants. Mullin serves as the quintessential straight man to Beelzebub’s whimsical nature, his exasperated reactions frequently delivering some of the show's most memorable comedic moments. His dedication, despite the constant absurdity, provides a grounding element to the fantastical setting, underscoring the pervasive cleverness woven throughout the series' narrative. The dynamic between his earnest attempts at professionalism and Beelzebub's carefree disposition is a constant source of laughter and genuine affection.

© matoba (author and illustrator), LIDENFILMS (studio), Square Enix (publishing company) | www.animenewsnetwork.com

The expansive supporting cast further enriches this theme of subverted demonic archetypes, each character adding another layer to Pandemonium's charmingly bizarre society. Azazel, despite his intimidating appearance and a history of being a fearsome demon, is portrayed as an unexpectedly kind-hearted domestic figure with remarkable culinary skills, often seen baking or tending to his garden. Belphegor, traditionally linked to sloth and one of the seven princes of Hell, is reimagined as an incredibly shy and socially anxious demon who struggles with public speaking and often hides behind objects or other characters. Even Astaroth, often associated with lust and a powerful duke of Hell, emerges as a flamboyant fashionista and a surprisingly doting older brother to Sargatanas, constantly worrying about her well-being and appearance. Eurynome, despite her imposing stature, is depicted as a gentle and somewhat naive demon who adores cute things, particularly Beelzebub. These fresh interpretations inject new vitality into ancient demonic lore, inviting audiences to perceive these iconic figures through a softer, more endearing lens, creating a truly unique ensemble that defies expectations at every turn.

LIDENFILMS, the acclaimed studio behind 'As Miss Beelzebub Likes it.', showcases its remarkable versatility through this production. Known for an eclectic portfolio ranging from intense action series like 'Tokyo Revengers' and 'The Heroic Legend of Arslan' to dynamic sports anime such as 'Hanebado!' and 'Burning Kabaddi', the studio proves its adeptness at handling not only high-octane sequences but also delicate, character-driven slice-of-life comedies. Their animation style flawlessly translates the manga's soft, rounded character designs and vibrant pastel color palette, which is paramount for conveying Pandemonium's whimsical and cozy ambiance. The fluid character movements and expressive facial animations perfectly capture the subtle comedic timing and emotional nuances of the interactions, making the world feel incredibly inviting and alive. This series stands as a testament to LIDENFILMS' adaptability, offering a heartwarming and gently humorous addition to their diverse repertoire, demonstrating their ability to excel across various genres.

Fan reception for 'As Miss Beelzebub Likes it.' has been overwhelmingly positive, celebrating its innovative approach to a well-worn genre. Viewers lauded its refreshing portrayal of demon lords, appreciating the significant shift from traditional dark fantasy to embrace wholesome comedy and heartwarming relationships. The series quickly cultivated a dedicated following who cherished its lighthearted escape into a version of Hell that is unexpectedly charming and deeply endearing. The undeniable chemistry between voice actors Rina Hidaka as Beelzebub and Hiro Shimono as Mullin was frequently highlighted as a significant strength, imbuing their interactions with extra charm and authenticity. Their performances brought an additional layer of depth and humor to the characters, making their dynamic truly shine and resonate with audiences.

The anime is a faithful adaptation of matoba’s acclaimed manga, which ran in Square Enix's Monthly Shōnen Gangan from 2015 to 2022. The animated series diligently captures the manga's gentle pacing and impeccable comedic timing, ensuring that the humor lands effectively without feeling rushed or forced. This careful adaptation extends to the visual style, maintaining the manga's distinctive aesthetic. Furthermore, the anime is complemented by its perfectly chosen opening and ending themes. The opening theme, 'Pink Lemonade' by Sangatsu no Phantasia, and the ending theme, 'Akumade Koiwazurai' by ORESAMA, both contribute significantly to the anime's atmospheric tone, enhancing the overall sensation of a dreamlike, captivating fantasy world. These musical selections perfectly encapsulate the series' lighthearted and whimsical spirit, drawing viewers deeper into Pandemonium's unique charm.

Ultimately, 'As Miss Beelzebub Likes it.' shines as a prime example of how creative interpretation and a playful reimagining of established tropes can culminate in a truly unique and cherished series. From its surprisingly fluffy demon lord to its cleverly named protagonist and the studio's versatile animation, the anime is replete with subtle delights that make it an essential watch for anyone seeking a wholesome, laughter-filled escape into a surprisingly adorable underworld. It stands as a testament to the idea that even the most fearsome figures can be reimagined with warmth and humor, proving that sometimes, the most unexpected settings can yield the most heartwarming stories.