In the final years of the Bakumatsu era lived a legendary assassin known as Hitokiri Battousai. Feared as a merciless killer, he was unmatched throughout the country, but mysteriously disappeared at the peak of the Japanese Revolution. It has been ten peaceful years since then, but the very mention of Battousai still strikes terror into the hearts of war veterans.
Unbeknownst to them, Battousai has abandoned his bloodstained lifestyle in an effort to repent for his sins, now living as Kenshin Himura, a wandering swordsman with a cheerful attitude and a strong will. Vowing never to kill again, Kenshin dedicates himself to protecting the weak. One day, he stumbles across Kaoru Kamiya at her kendo dojo, which is being threatened by an impostor claiming to be Battousai. After receiving help from Kenshin, Kaoru allows him to stay at the dojo, and so the former assassin temporarily ceases his travels.
Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan tells the story of Kenshin as he strives to save those in need of saving. However, as enemies from both past and present begin to emerge, will the reformed killer be able to uphold his new ideals?
Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan – The Story So Far…
Set during the early Meiji period in Japan, our protagonist, a wandering swordsman named Kenshin Himura, endeavours to live a peaceful existence, vowing never to kill again. A past filled with blood as the feared ‘Battousai the Manslayer’ during the revolution, Kenshin now wields a reverse blade sword, desperately trying to escape the shadows of his past.
The juxtaposition of Kenshin’s past and present is beautifully depicted, as he meets allies and enemies alike on his journey. Among the remarkable characters, including plucky Kaoru, smart-mouthed Yahiko, staunch Sano, and clever Megumi, we see Kenshin’s determination to protect without killing taking roots and blooms, leading to some of the most brilliantly choreographed fights that anime has to offer. These relationships and struggles come to play out against the backdrop of a Japan struggling to transition from a period of violent upheaval to modernity.
Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan – An Anime Critic Review
Fans of Samurai and classic martial arts anime, rejoice! Today, I’m going to dive into the visual masterpiece that is Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan. Buckle up and come along for a wild ride!
First off, Kenshin’s character itself is a coup for the creators. The complex duality of Kenshin, torn between his violent past and his newfound resolution for peace, gives the storyline a compelling depth that few other animes manage to achieve. Bringing life to his character are the standout voice performances (both in Japanese and English adaptations) that truly convey Kenshin’s sense of pain, peace, and struggle.
Visuals & Style
The artwork is traditional yet intricate, enhancing every scene with a serious sense of authenticity in relation to the period the anime is set in. Action sequences are fluent and impactful, appealing to both seasoned veterans and newcomers to the genre. The anime creators capture the essence of the Meiji era flawlessly, with detailed environments and character designs.
Audio & Soundtrack
The score beautifully caps off the form and function of Rurouni Kenshin. Every fight, pensive moment, and dramatic sequence is accompanied by immaculately timed musical cues that augment the emotional impact on the viewer. Truly a delightful harmony!
Plot & Pacing
The narrative of Rurouni Kenshin evolves steadily but surely, holding your attention right from the start. A slowburner, each episode brings about character development, emotional depth, and plot progression, woven into the incredible action sequences.
So, should you rent, buy or stream Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan?
Without a trace of doubt, I would recommend viewers to invest in this franchise. With its engaging storyline, superb character arcs, stellar voice performances, terrific action sequences and fantastic music score, Rurouni Kenshin is an anime that deserves a place in every anime enthusiast’s collection.
Final verdict? Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan is a symbol of what impeccable storytelling, strong character development and brilliant direction can achieve when combined in the world of anime. It’s a perfect blend of action, drama, comedy, and romance. Do yourself a favour and include this masterpiece in your watchlist today!
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