Review of The Elusive Samurai

I don't understand, or maybe don't wanna understand the mixed reception Elusive Samurai has gotten, I could certainly make an effort to try put myself on the shoes of those that did not like it, but I'm afraid they would be too tight on the toes of someone who has so much praise for this one. Starting for its subjects and the way it chooses to approach them. The anime finds itself in a very weird position, I could hardly call it a Shounen with a good conscience, as it has no trouble of pushing into more mature themes only to pull you out with anot so innocent sense of humor, that at no moment I felt subtracted from each other. The anime also expects of the audience some minimal knowledge of the historical period in which it passes, the relationships between vassals and lords and the obligations and social expectations of the different classes.

Continuing on subjects, it also has one of the most interesting takes on religion and spirituality I've seen in any medium, here ­- historical Japan, is not quite so, as it is inhabited by demons and deities. Their existence never being explained keeps a mysterious vagueness
and unpredictability that maintains a sense of wonder as they show themselves through the story. Speaking of which, paralleling certain elements of Shinto's mythology like putting excrement in someone's seat and giving them vomit to eat, we have humor that is very bodily and visceral, which may not be everyone's cup of tea, but I do like some cannibalism and an eye and ear having a relationship so intimate many here would cry in envy, when done in good taste, of course. It also reminded me of epics like the Gita, specially when it comes to the relationship between Yorishige and Tokiyuki.

Another point of emphasis are the villains. Here is definitely a point of contention to be found, as the anime exchange psychological depth for theatrical extravagance, where we can infer their personality and nature at a glance. That makes each one of them memorable and at times charismatic, even in their limited screen time. I wish we can have other mature storytelling that follow this same route. The only exception to this rule is the main antagonist Takauji, a man that is at once full of charisma and innocence, and despite of himself, carries from the start a mysterious ominous force. Despite that the main conflict is never simply put as a fight between good and evil.

I tried to organize my notes the best I could, hope they are clear enough and it is my wish that you can see The Elusive Samurai, at least a little, with the same eyes I did.