Rurouni Kenshin

(series)
  • Japan Ruróni Kenšin: Meidži kenkaku romantan (more)
Trailer 5
Japan, (2023–2025), 19 h 12 min (Length: 24 min)

Based on:

Nobuhiro Nishiwaki (comic book)

Cinematography:

Junpei Takatsu

Composer:

Yuu Takami

Cast:

Sōma Saitō, Rie Takahashi, Makoto Koichi, Taku Yashiro, Yūma Uchida, Saori Ōnishi, Satoshi Hino, Chō, Shin'ya Takahashi, Sōichiro Hoshi, Wataru Takagi (more)
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Seasons(2) / Episodes(48)

Plots(1)

During the upheaval of the Bakumatsu Era, there was an Imperialist warrior feared as the "Hitokiri Battosai." However, upon the arrival of the new era the Battosai disappeared from the public eye, leaving behind just his legend of the strongest Revolutionary warrior. Years later in downtown Tokyo, on the 11th year of Meiji. Kenshin Himura, a traveling swordsman who vowed to never kill again on the sakabato (reverse blade sword) he carries on his hip, meets Kaoru Kamiya, the head instructor of the Kamiya Kasshin-ryu sword style. Kenshin solves the case of a crossroad killer who was tarnishing the name of the Kasshin-ryu while claiming to be the "Hitokiri Battosai," which then leads to Kaoru offering to have the wanderer stay at her dojo. Follow Kenshin's journey as he makes treasured friendships with Yahiko Myojin, a descendent of a samurai-class family in Tokyo, and Sanosuke Sagara, a fighter for hire, and faces off against various foes who have unfinished business from Kenshin's past. The curtains have opened on the inspiring tale of a swordsman, and the resolute people surrounding him, living in the new Meiji Era. (Crunchyroll)

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Reviews of this series by the user Jeoffrey (1)

Season 1 (2023) (S01) 

English On one hand, this rendition of Kenshin feels more mature, with the main character voiced by a male actor rather than a female actress. It's decisive, trimming away unnecessary elements and focusing on the best parts, smoothly leading us into the beginning of the Kyoto arc. On the other hand, it could be seen as a dense extract lacking lightness and soul. Humor is treated as more or less unnecessary here, and when it does appear, it often feels out of place. Thankfully, Kenshin isn't primarily a comedy, so it doesn't detract too much from the experience. The excellent graphical design helps alleviate this, with Kenshin's new look being visually appealing, and the music fulfilling its role effectively. Unfortunately, Kenshin faces tough competition in today's anime landscape. While the fights in this series hold up decently, they come off as just slightly above average in the grand scheme of anime. Compared to the intense action-packed spectacles like Jujutsu Kaisen, it can feel a tad lackluster. However, where the series truly shines is in its portrayal of characters. Despite the brisk pace, their personalities, charisma, and motivations are well-captured. Even with less screen time, I find myself connecting with them much as I did before. While I may not feel the same intense emotions during pivotal moments, it's likely due to my familiarity with the story rather than the fault of the adaptation. Considering my fondness for samurais and interest in Japanese history, the series gains even more favor in my eyes. Overall, I found this adaptation enjoyable. While not flawless (much like the 1996 version), it was undeniably successful. I eagerly await the upcoming Kyoto arc. 7.5/10 ()