Review of The Elusive Samurai
This was a different type of anime. I watched it between 15 and 21 December, and now I am waiting for Season 2. Without giving spoilers, if I talk about the first episode, the story is set in 1333. It starts with a very mischievous and playful child who keeps running around and causing trouble. There is a historical angle. It is based on the real historical figure Hojo Tokiyuki, which makes it a rare historical anime because it explores late Kamakura and early Muromachi period Japan. But in my opinion, it only touches history. In reality, it feels more like a fantasy story. Main Story: Thisis a coming of age revenge story. The protagonist is 8 year old Hojo Tokiyuki. As he grows up, he becomes a warrior. The interesting part is that he does not like fighting and he is not very good at it. His real strength is running away and surviving. That survival instinct becomes his biggest weapon.
Tone: The tone changes very quickly. In one moment, you see children playing in a lighthearted comedy scene. In the next moment, there is bloody and gory violence. It balances fun and disturbing elements in a strange way. Not everyone will like this mix, but it feels fresh.
The show also uses slapstick and absurd humor. There is an eccentric priest named Suwa Yorishige who can see the future and behaves in a very strange way. He gives slight Koro sensei vibes.
Studio and Visuals: CloverWorks has made this anime visually strong. The art style is vibrant. The action scenes, especially when Tokiyuki dodges attacks, are animated very smoothly.
My opinion: I give this anime 8 out of 10. If you like shows such as Samurai Champloo or Assassination Classroom that mix genres, you should watch this. If you are looking for pure romance, this is not for you. Romance is only lightly hinted at. The main focus is always survival and strategy.
Content Type: Anime
Genre: Historical, Action, Shonen, Coming of Age, Fantasy
Writer/Director: Original manga written and illustrated by Yusei Matsui. Directed by Yuta Yamazaki. Series composition by Yoriko Tomita. Animation by CloverWorks.