Devilman - Volume 1: The Birth
デビルマン 誕生編
Akira is just another normal kid in modern-day Tokyo, until an old friend of his, Ryo, shows up and turns his world upside down. Akira learns that there is an upcoming war of demons on humanity and he has just been enlisted for a major tour of duty. But the only way to fight a demon is with their power, so Akira and Ryo risk a dangerous ceremony in an attempt to create humanity's only hope: the powerful Devilman.
Why it matters
A brutal fusion of supernatural horror and apocalyptic body horror that captures the chaotic energy of ’80s anime with unflinching gore and existential dread.
- Early example of anime pushing horror beyond Western animation’s boundaries — raw, visceral, and unapologetically dark.
- Showcases transformative body horror effects that predate and parallel Cronenbergian nightmares with a distinctly Japanese flair.
- For fans of demonic possession and end-of-days dread, it’s a psychedelic descent into humanity’s capacity for violence and salvation.
- Not for the faint-hearted or those expecting polished modern animation — the rough edges amplify its cult, underground vibe.
Director
2 horror films in catalog
Cast
Horror DNA
Gore
85
Slow Burn
50
Psychological
57
Supernatural
80
Creature
73
Disturbing
100
Fun Factor
33
Cerebral
71
Survival
33
