Adds zero value to the actual plot (for those seeking "canon" content).
While Black Butler II remains the most polarizing season of the franchise, its six OVA specials are arguably its saving grace. Rather than trying to fix the messy narrative of the "Spider and the Dog," these specials lean into the absurd, the meta, and the fan-service-heavy charm that the series is known for. Kuroshitsuji II Specials (Dub)
The English dub is where these specials truly shine. J. Michael Tatum (Sebastian) and Brina Palencia (Ciel) clearly had a blast with the more comedic scripts. The voice cast’s ability to pivot from the show’s usual gothic melodrama to deadpan snark makes the parodies hit much harder than the subtitled versions. The "Making of" special, in particular, relies on the dub’s excellent comedic timing to land its jokes about "onset" diva behavior. Adds zero value to the actual plot (for
The animation quality remains consistent with A-1 Pictures' work on the main season. Even in the more bizarre segments like "The Story of Will the Reaper," the aesthetic remains sharp and polished. It’s a treat to see characters outside of their usual Victorian gloom, placed into technicolor dreamscapes or modern-day film sets. The English dub is where these specials truly shine
The specials vary wildly in tone. You have the surreal "Ciel in Wonderland," which is a visually creative (if nonsensical) trip down the rabbit hole, and the "Making of Kuroshitsuji II," which treats the entire show like a live-action Hollywood production. The latter is the standout, offering a hilarious "behind-the-scenes" look at Claude and Sebastian as rival actors.
If you’re looking to post a "proper" review for the , you need to address that these aren't your typical plot-heavy episodes. They are experimental, self-aware, and—in the case of the English dub—absolute comedic gold. Review: Black Butler II Specials (English Dub) Overall Rating: 8/10