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I'm currently watching an anime called Le Chevalier d'Eon. I think those dubbers have already released DVD's for it, or so it says in the latest issue of AnimeInsider. Go buy it if you're a dub fan, seriously. I watch fansubbed episodes--not a fan of dubs. Anyway, here goes.

So Le Chevalier d'Eon, shortened to Chevalier in this review--basically from Shuvarie in Japanese terms--is a beautiful historical anime set in France, reign of King Louis XV, that revolves around d'Eon de Beaumont (actually based on a real person). d'Eon is the knight of King Louis XV (hence, Chevalier) and he feels like France is changing and that the end of an era is approaching. Or so he says in the first episode.

This anime starts of enigmatic and eerie when a casket with "Psalm" written in blood on it was found floating around the Seine river. The woman inside leaves questions unanswered--she is Lia de Beaumont, d'Eon's older sister. The plot will unfold surrounding his sister's mysterious death.

Lia turns out to be a prominent figure in the government--giving all her body and soul to the glorious France and the King. Before her death, she must have discovered something unsettling. d'Eon and several other knights are devoted to discover the truth beneath France's legacy as female zombies called "gargoyles" attacks them.

Another aspect of this story is Lia's revenge. d'Eon discovers soon enough that in times of trouble Lia's soul can take over d'Eon's body and murders brutally--Lia is somewhat of a better swordfighter than her brother. This is a historical trivia to note that the real Chevalier d'Eon actually lived half of his life as a female.

There are many latin and biblical references in this anime. It his however, adequate and adds to the beauty of Chevalier. Also, the artwork and animation is exquisite--with appropriate details from fashion to historical landmarks (Production I.G. did their research very well). Not to mention the roles of real historical people such as Louis XV, Duc d'Orleans, and Marquise de Pompadour among others.

Also, another strong point to this anime is the opening song. The title of the song is "Born" sung by Miwako Okuda. The ending "Over Night" by Aya is sweet and beautiful, but I don't think it has the impact "Born" has.

Also: So far I've only watched 4 episodes. I'll keep updating this post as much as possible.