Watch Le Chevalier D'Eon
- 2006
- 1 Season
-
7.2 (391)
Le Chevalier D'Eon is an anime series produced by Production I.G and directed by Kazuhiro Furuhashi. It is a historical fiction set in France during the 18th century and is loosely based on the life of a real historical figure, Charles-Geneviève-Louis-Auguste-André-Timothée d'Ãon de Beaumont, who was a diplomat and spy in the court of King Louis XV of France.
The story revolves around the character of D'Eon, a young man who is a member of the king's secret police force, the Liaison Council. He is a skilled swordsman and a devoted servant to the king, but he also harbors a hidden agenda - he is searching for his sister Lia de Beaumont, who disappeared under mysterious circumstances.
The show has a strong supernatural element, with ghosts and dark magic playing a prominent role. D'Eon frequently communicates with his dead sister Lia, who seems to lead him towards the truth behind her disappearance. Other supernatural elements include possession by the dead, visions of the future, and the use of magic spells.
The show's animation is top-notch, with detailed character designs and richly realized historical settings. The voice acting is also excellent, with a number of well-known Japanese actors lending their talents to the project. Nazuka Kaori plays D'Eon himself, while Mayo Suzukaze voices his dead sister Lia. Other notable cast members include Takahiro Sakurai, Yasunori Matsumoto, and Atsuko Tanaka.
One of the most striking things about the show is its depiction of gender and sexuality. D'Eon is presented as a male character, but he frequently dresses in women's clothing as a disguise. This is not played for comedic effect, as might be expected in a more conventional anime series, but is instead treated with a surprising amount of seriousness and respect. The show also features a number of prominent female characters, who are presented as powerful and capable individuals in their own right.
Another noteworthy aspect of the show is its use of historical accuracy. The show takes great pains to depict the customs and beliefs of 18th century France, with references to real historical figures such as Madame de Pompadour and the Marquis de Sade. The show's attention to historical detail is such that it often feels more like a historical drama than an anime series.
At its core, Le Chevalier D'Eon is a mystery story. D'Eon's quest to find his sister leads him down a dark path, as he uncovers a web of political intrigue and supernatural forces at work in the highest levels of French society. The show's themes of betrayal, revenge, and redemption are handled with skill and nuance, leaving the viewer guessing as to who can be trusted and who is hiding a secret agenda.
Overall, Le Chevalier D'Eon is a fascinating and engaging anime series that offers a unique take on historical fiction. Its blend of supernatural elements with real historical events creates an intriguing tapestry of storytelling that keeps the viewer invested from start to finish. Its portrayal of gender and sexuality is also refreshingly progressive, making it a standout series in a genre that can often be formulaic and predictable.