Anime

but the main character in short pants really likes to spout pompous nonsense and talk all sorts of rubbish about "revenge and hatred."

If you're talking about the Count, you just don't understand anything =) You need to delve into the "pompous nonsense" and not just be drawn to cute characters.
I think some fans are drawn to the philosophy and dark humor, while others are drawn to cute characters like Grell. And maybe some people have associations with the cult classic Hellsing (it's easy to draw parallels).
+a sad ending. This kind of anime is worth rewatching from time to time to lift your spirits =)

Right now, I'm rewatching Mushishi - ^_____^ It immediately puts me in such a mood: I want to create, love, and be as calm as a snake.