The Elusive Samurai Anime First Cour Review

From the creator of Assasination Classroom, comes a historical fiction about a young boy whose talent lies in flight rather than fight. In a time when Japan was embroiled in war, and even children were expected to take up arms and fight, the sole heir to the Hojo clan would use his miraculous gift for evasion to rally the people and fight for a brighter future.

About The Elusive Samurai

Credit: Crunchyroll

The series begins with a brief overview of the setting, Japan, 1333, the end of the Kamakura period. On the cusp of what many consider the start of the Sengoku Era, and refer to as the “Warring States Period.” Many manga and anime draw inspiration from Japan’s long history of civil war. The Sengoku Era is the most well-known span of wartime and makes the perfect backdrop for a shonen battle. However, The Elusive Samurai takes a slightly different angle by focusing on a lesser known historical figure, Hojo Tokiyuki.

The anime does a stellar job of capturing Tokiyuki’s youthful energy and penchant for evasion. Despite the fluster caused by his frivolous behavior, a sense of peace and serenity is reflected in Tokiyuki’s attitude. He believes he doesn’t need to study or practice because his sliver of the world is safe and secure. All too quickly, though, the vibrant colors of the blossoming trees are replaced by crimson red.

Blending Motion and Storytelling

Credit: Crunchyroll

One of the Hojo clan’s retainers, Ashikaga Takauji, leads a rebellion against the shogunate and his forces slaughter the people of Kamakura. With the help of Suwa Yorishige, a priest and leader of the Suwa region, Tokiyuki discovers the thrill of escape and flees the carnage. It’s here that we get our first look at how well the anime blends motion and storytelling. The sequence where Tokiyuki escapes the clutches of the rebelling samurai is chaotic, cluttered, and confusing. The audience is immersed in Tokiyuki’s point of view as the tension mounts with every missed strike. The slightest hesitation means death, but once he clears the murderous crowd, and the wings of a phoenix unfurl from his being, it leaves one with a great sense of satisfaction.

Credit: Crunchyroll

From here, the story follows Tokiyuki through various games of tag, or in Japanese “鬼ごっこ” (onigokko). The phrase literally translates to “playing demon,” where the person tagging players is considered the demon. For Tokiyuki, various enemies take on the role of demons as he avoids their bloodthirsty pursuit. He is hounded by the likes of a greedy uncle, a bugged-eyed general, and a sadistic ronin, all in order for him to learn the ways of warfare, survival, and how to win by fleeing.

Emotions Carried by Animation

Credit: Crunchyroll

Ultimately, throughout his struggles, Tokiyuki never forgets his elation when evading his enemies. The anime goes the extra mile to instill that elation and sense of fun for the viewers. Being so far removed from the danger, we can revel in Tokiyuki’s movements, applauding his unique style of confronting the enemy with a genuine smile on his face. Scenes like the fight with his uncle and the ronin Shokan are elevated with artistic departures from the conventional anime style. Also, The emotions are carried by the animation. With the antagonists, the visuals are warped and exaggerated to highlight the grotesque demons hidden within.

Credit: Crunchyroll

Beyond the war drama and bloody visuals, there is a heartfelt message about enjoying life and valuing the time until one’s death. The anime maintains a sense of whimsy, even when focusing on Tokiyuki’s daily life. Occassionally, he is surrounded by retainers, each with their own charming personalities and quirks. The story never forgets that these are children and barely entering their teenage years. As they are forced to fight and kill for their survival, they still find time to laugh and play and act like kids. Even Suwa Yorishige, for all his comical antics and fourth wall breaks, gives Tokiyuki and his retainers the guidance or care befitting of a father. Yorishige truly believes that to become a great leader, Tokiyuki must embrace and celebrate his humanity.

Final Thoughts

Credit: Crunchyroll

The Elusive Samurai is a fun, visually striking anime that will entertain viewers in the most unconventional ways. Also, by continually thrusting the characters into dark and bloody conflict, it elevates the light of vitality Hojo Tokiyuki represents. The animation perfectly depicts the rush experienced during the fight-or-flight response, elevating the dynamic manga panels to greater heights. In short, The Elusive Samurai is a must-watch for any anime fan, so catch the first 12 episodes on Crunchyroll. The manga is available through the Shonen Jump app as well as Viz Media.

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  • He/Him/His | Actor. Artist. Anime Enthusiast. Enjoys all genres from thought-provoking to mindless action. Has also built quite a manga collection. Likes origami in his off time.

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