Watch Shingetsutan Tsukihime

Shingetsutan Tsukihime is a dark, supernatural anime series that first aired in 2003. Based on a visual novel of the same name, the show was produced by J.C. Staff and directed by Katsushi Sakurabi. The series follows the story of a teenager named Shiki Tohno, who possesses the unique ability to see lines on everything around him that indicate the points where they can be cut.

The series starts with Shiki moving to his family's ancestral home in the small town of Misaki, where he meets a mysterious girl named Arcueid Brunestud, who turns out to be a vampire. She is on a mission to hunt down and kill the other True Ancestors or vampires, who are even more powerful than she is. While initially skeptical, Shiki gets drawn into Arcueid's quest and becomes her reluctant ally. Along with Arcueid, he encounters several other characters, each with their own reasons for wanting to bring down the True Ancestors.

The show's plot is incredibly complex and multi-layered, with many twists and turns that keep the viewer engaged throughout its twelve-episode run. The emotions are raw and intense, as characters struggle with their conflicting desires and the weight of their past mistakes. The animation style is distinct and striking, with a lot of attention to detail paid to the settings and character designs. The soundtrack is also phenomenal, with haunting melodies and melancholic pieces that perfectly set the tone for the series.

One of the key themes of the series is the idea of sacrifice, and how sometimes people are called upon to make difficult choices in order to achieve their goals. Shiki, in particular, is a character who embodies this concept, as he is forced to confront the consequences of his actions and the guilt he carries from his past. There is also a sense of inevitability that permeates the show, as many of the characters are fated to either triumph or perish in their quest for revenge.

The voice acting in the series is also superb, with Kenichi Suzumura delivering a standout performance as Shiki Tohno. He manages to convey the character's inner turmoil and angst in a way that feels authentic and relatable. Hitomi Nabatame also shines as Arcueid Brunestud, bringing a sense of vulnerability and determination to the role. Fumiko Orikasa is also notable as Ciel, a mysterious nun who has her own reasons for wanting to take down the True Ancestors.

Overall, Shingetsutan Tsukihime is a must-watch anime for fans of the supernatural and horror genres. Its complex plot, well-developed characters, and haunting soundtrack make it a standout series that still holds up today, almost twenty years after its initial release. While it may not be for everyone, those who appreciate a well-crafted story with plenty of twists and turns will find a lot to love in this dark, moody masterpiece.