Okay, confession time. I have a slightly controversial opinion about the Black Butler Season 1, Episode 1 English dub from Funimation.
Don't get me wrong, I love the show! And I appreciate all the voice actors.
But that first episode dub? It's...well, let's just say it's an experience.
First Impressions, Lasting Laughs
Remember when Ciel Phantomhive first graces our screens? Dressed impeccably, ordering people around like it's an Olympic sport.
Then Sebastian Michaelis shows up. Smooth, charming, and utterly demonic.
The voice acting? A bit...stiff? Maybe a tad over-the-top? I'm not saying it's bad, just...memorable for other reasons.
The "Yes, My Lord" Heard 'Round the World
Let's be honest, Sebastian's infamous "Yes, my Lord" in that first episode? Iconic.
But also? Kind of hilarious. It's like he's trying *too* hard to be the perfect butler.
The dramatic delivery! The unwavering devotion! It's almost comical in its intensity.
And Ciel's voice...so mature for a ten-year-old? It's like a tiny CEO giving world-altering orders.
It cracks me up every time.
Embracing the Cheese Factor
Maybe it's the early 2000s anime dub charm. Maybe it's the slightly awkward pacing.
Whatever it is, the Funimation dub of Black Butler's first episode has a certain…je ne sais quoi.
It's like watching a beloved, slightly cheesy B-movie. You know it's not perfect, but you adore it anyway.
I find myself quoting lines from that first episode more than I should. My personal favorite?
"I am simply one hell of a butler."
Delivered with such sincerity! It's pure gold.
Unpopular Opinion: It Adds to the Fun
I know, I know. Some people might cringe at the early dub. They might say it doesn't capture the nuance of the original.
But hear me out! I think the slightly over-the-top acting actually *enhances* the experience.
It adds a layer of humor and absurdity that wouldn't be there otherwise. I mean, Black Butler already has a dark sense of humor.
The English dub just amps it up to eleven. And I'm here for it.
It's like a guilty pleasure. I know it's not the *best* dub ever made.
But every time I watch that first episode, I can't help but smile. Or straight up giggle.
Nostalgia and Appreciation
Ultimately, my fondness for the Funimation dub of Black Butler Season 1, Episode 1 comes down to nostalgia.
It takes me back to a simpler time. A time when anime dubs were sometimes a little rough around the edges, but always full of heart.
So, the next time you're feeling down, give that first episode a re-watch.
Embrace the cheese. Laugh at the slightly awkward deliveries.
And remember, even demons can have off days when it comes to proper butlering skills. Okay, maybe not, but it's fun to think about!
Who knows, you might just find yourself agreeing with my unpopular opinion. Or, at the very least, find a few moments to chuckle along the way.