Customer Reviews:
This isn't an official release!.......2007-09-14
If this is the entire series on 12 DVDs. then it isn't the official US or Japanese release. It is purely up to you if you want to buy it or not, but I have heard of too many people being burned because they didn't realize that they were buying a bootleg.
Great story.......2007-09-02
Ten years after the start of the Meiji Era, a Rurouni wanders into Tokyo to find a new life with new friends. Vowing never to kill, he tries to escape his past as the Hitokiri Battousai, the greatest killer of the Bakumatsu.
However, an old menace, in the form of Shishio Makoto, the successor to the Hitokiri Battousai, threatens the peace of the new Meiji Era. Shishio and his Juppon Gatana are ready to start a new revolution to correct the evils of Western influence.
Rurouni Kenshin Complete Collections.......2007-08-05
i just got mines today this was a great deal, i got mine from got-anime
i love rurouni kenshin
Great.......2007-07-30
This is a great buy. Comes with all the episodes on 12 discs. Really you could buy this for $100 or you could buy each season for $70 each.
Customer Reviews:
My review for kenshin.......2007-08-23
Rurouni Kenshin is in my opinion one of the greatest anime cartoons that i've seen. Honorable, honest, and sticks to his word (not killing anymore) is some qualities he has that not many people use in todays world and that's what makes him unique. I am definitely going to get the rest of the series.
This totally changed my opinion of anime.......2007-08-09
Have never been a big fan of anime in the past, though I think the images from Pokemon were the limit of my experience. Rurouni Kenshin is awesome! It has really serious themes, but deals with everything with lots of humor. I especially like the emphasis on repentance and reparation as being superior (though also more difficult) to despair and suicide.
Even though Kenshin is the focus of the series and is way cool, all the characters are well developed and important. I highly recommend this fun series!
:).......2007-08-01
This anime is a really great investment. The English dub is not that bad, and the story itself is just captivating. I'll definitely be purchasing the second season in the future.
My only complaint would be, that I picked free shipping, and when the package got here, the corner of the box was broken, so it doesn't snap shut on the bottom.
My favorite anime!!!!!.......2007-06-11
i saw this show about 5 years ago on tv, and until now i had forgotten almost everything about the series. I recently bought this dvd set a couple of weeks ago and im soo glad i did. This was my favorite anime back 5 years ago, and I would have to say it still is my favorite. Everything from the animations to the story is simply phenominal, and would I recommend this dvd set to any anime fan!!
Kenshin - No Kills Hitokiri!.......2007-01-06
Kenshin is among the best animes ever produced. The story is epic and it has plenty of side story humor. The characters for both the good guys and the badguys are not generic typical people. Most of them have a complete past and a story behind them that makes all of them unique.
I gave this Anime a rating of 5 stars for the following reasons:
1.)Completed story
2.)Character uniqueness
3.)Side story humor
4.)Believability (I admit the sword fighting can seem over the top but I am refering to the stories.)
5.)Knowledge (it may seem somewhat silly but this anime is packed with excellent qualities. plus the characters make mistakes and work to correct them, nobody is perfect and it points that in their constant vigilance in making up for what they have done wrong.)
I strongly recommend Season one and Season two of Rurouni Kenshin. Season 3 has the lowest rating becuase the storyline is somewhat generic and the characters are not particularly amazing. This is amazing work and I would advise adding it to any anime collection. Worth every penny.
Hails,
Average customer rating:
- Samurai X - The Motion Picture way too boring
- Not all that great to me. Nothing new at all.
- should have been ruroni kenshin: the movie
- A fitting continuation of the epic saga
- Oh my
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Samurai X - The Motion Picture (Rurouni Kenshin)
Director:
Hatsuki Tsuji
Manufacturer: Adv Films
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Similar Items:
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Samurai X - OVA Collection
-
Samurai X - Trust & Betrayal (Director's Cut)
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Rurouni Kenshin - TV Series Season Two
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Samurai X - Reflection - Director's Cut (Rurouni Kenshin)
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Rurouni Kenshin - TV Series Volume Three
ASIN: B000056HOW
Release Date: 2001-03-27 |
Amazon.com
Although it boasts plenty of sword fights, martial arts combat, and odd, orange blood, Samurai X offers deeper and more sensitive characterizations than typical anime samurai epics. Based on the manga by Noboru Watsuki, the film centers on questions about the nature of Japanese society during the years following the Meiji Restoration in the late 19th century. Kenshin Himura and his friends Kaoru, Sanosuke, and Yahiko seem like an ordinary, slightly goofy quartet. But red-haired Kenshin is an expert swordsman; tall, lanky Sanosuke, a martial arts master; adolescent Yahiko, a samurai-in-training. Kaoru fills the role of outspoken anime heroine. An ugly encounter with some drunken British sailors introduces Kenshin and his friends to the noble Takimi Shigure and lovely Toki Takatsuki. Shigure leads a group opposed to the Meiji government, which they believe is corrupting Japanese culture, and his ill-conceived attempt at rebellion brings him into conflict with Kenshin. A key fighter in the Restoration, Kenshin received scars on his soul that mark him more decisively than the X on his cheek; he weeps for the needless bloodshed he helped to unleash. Director Hatsuki Tsuji builds subtle visual patterns of downward motions--falling tears, fluttering bamboo leaves, the deadly stroke of a sword, Kenshin's spectacular leaps--to create a film with an unusually satisfying resolution. Not rated; suitable for ages 14 and up for violence. --Charles Solomon
Description
The war against the Tokugawa Shogunate ended years ago. But there are some who are not happy with the outcome. Shigure Takimi watched his friends and family get slashed down in the name of freedom and prosperity. Now he and a band of desparate rebels have sworn to settle one final score. Only one man stands in their way: Rurouni Kenshin. Will the former assassin take up his sword to fight again? When Shigure discovers Kenshin's true identity and his fight becomes a personal vendetta, the young hero will have no choice.
Customer Reviews:
Samurai X - The Motion Picture way too boring.......2007-08-31
I thought all the Samurai X Anime were slow and tiresome, I dont think they are worth paying over 20 dollars for. Fight scenes were few.... dialog was plentiful.
Not all that great to me. Nothing new at all........2007-07-23
First of all if your new to Kenshin skip this movie and get the TV series Rouroni Kenshin. It contains all the character development and a detailed history of Kenshin and everyones origin. You are not going to find that here. Also pick up the Samurai X ova's which is a prequel to the series.
Now on to the review. This movie has a pretty decent plot to it. But its been done to death by now if you saw the TV series. A group of samurai's is unhappy with the new government and the only way to change it is to kill and destroy. The animation to me is on par with the TV series. Its pretty good, fluid and great character designs. The fights are ok at best. After watching the TV series, especially the battle with Saiyto, then later Shishio. There really isn't anything too special to see anymore. They already used their best to make the series a classic milestone.
The bad with this movie definitely has to be the new voice actors. I wasn't pleased with any of the cast at all. Still at least they managed to keep their original personalities. I feel the characterization was off alot concerning Yahiko. At one point in the movie it seemed as though he has no respect for Kenshin at all. And by the 4th or 5th episode I'm guessing in the series, he was already idolizing Kenshin. So for him to idolize that captain was off to me. To include when he joined the resistance for revenge, this was totally out of character for him.
I'm guessing this movie takes place at somepoint before the Shishio arc. That would probably explain the reason why Saiyto is still "alive" and interacting with Kenshin. And it also explains Kenshin's overall weakness to include his lack of control for the manslayer lurking within him.
Well I took this movie for what it is. This is the 3rd time I watched and it has grown on me. Had I reviewed this when I first saw it I would've shot this with 2 stars at the most. Simply because it lacked originality and I got tired of seeing the same flashback like for the 5th time.
Bottomline if your fan of Kenshin and haven't seen this. Its worth a watch. But don't expect anything to surpass or even get as deep as the Shishio arc. They couldn't even do that in the series, so there was no way it could've been done with this.
should have been ruroni kenshin: the movie.......2007-07-05
this movie takes place midway between the series, before the shishio saga, after sanno meets his artist friend. its a stand alone story and is quite like an extended 4 episode part of the series itself.
there is some getting used to the voice actors as only a few of the voices returned for it.
if you have the series, its wrtht getting
the animation is not like the samurai x movies, it is like the series.
its worth seeing at least once... i would however reccomend having seen the series first to help in the points of reference
A fitting continuation of the epic saga.......2007-03-20
The motion picture set a few years after the end of the series is a nice look into the continuing saga of Kenshin and his gang. This anima is always at it's best when they bring in people from Kenshin's past and the era of the Meiji Restoration.
My one gripe about the anime, in general. After learning the Amakakeru Ryu No Hirameki (the Hiten Ryu's final attack) it's suddenly become the only way Kenshin can defeat enemies. I can see that being the case against Makoto Shisio, but against everybody? C'mon.
Otherwise a wonderful anime.
Oh my.......2006-09-29
I like kenshin i really do but this movie just...upset me. I like the funny cracks and jokes but it just kept on with the flashbacks. Alot more gore...if I wanted to see that I would have watched the OVA version. I don't like the way it jumped around...sigh.
Amazon.com
The 34 episodes in this eight-disc set make up the "Kyoto" arc of the popular martial arts adventure-comedy. The tone of the narrative has darkened since the introductory story (Rurouni Kenshin: Wandering Samurai). When the forces of the Tokugawa Shogunate were defeated by the Imperialists 10 years earlier, Kenshin Himura abandoned his identity as Battousai the Manslayer. Makoto Shishio succeeded him as the country's deadliest assassin. Government agents captured Shishio, and although he survived a botched execution, an attempt to incinerate his body left him hideously scarred. Shishio has assembled a private army to overthrow the Meiji government and make himself ruler of Japan. Can Kenshin keep his oath never to kill again, or must he once again become a murderer to prevent a civil war? Kenshin's internal struggle is complicated by Seiko, his arrogant former sensei; Aoshi, the ex-commander of the Oniwaban; and Saito, a police officer who may be a friend, rival, and/or enemy. The drama and violence are played against the broad comedy of the cast of friends Kenshin made in Tokyo in the previous continuity: Kaoru, Yahiko, Sanosuke, Megumi. Yahiko tries to emulate Kenshin, clobbering an opponent as he shouts, "Hiten Mitsurugi style--or close to it, anyway!"
Director Kazuhiro Furuhashi stages the sword fights and martial arts duels with panache, using rapid cutting, split-screen, and reversed colors to heighten the excitement. But the filmmakers stress that the spiritual aspects of the samurai tradition of bushido outweigh mere physical skills. Kenshin's inner nobility triumphs over Shishio's commitment to a misguided social Darwinism. The emphasis on internal conflict demands nuanced performances from the vocal cast. As Kenshin, Richard Hayworth finds subtle transitions between the warm, slightly goofy Kenshin and the implacable warrior who once terrified Kyoto. This depth and complexity of characterization gives Rurouni Kenshin a resonance lacking in animation that pits blandly virtuous heroes against cackling villains. The Legend of Kyoto set makes it clear why Rurouni Kenshin remains one of the best-loved anime continuities of all time. (Rated 13 and older: violence, alcohol and tobacco use) --Charles Solomon
Customer Reviews:
DVD #6 does not play.......2007-06-27
My son was very excited to finally get his hands on this set, but when it arrived he was immediately let down. As soon as he opened the item he noticed the DVD case was broken. Not only was the case broken, but DVD #6, evidently an important part of this series, would not play. We returned it and requested a replacement which we recieved immediately. Unfortunately, once again, DVD #6 would not play. What a let down.
disc 1 shadow of the wolf has no data on it.......2007-01-16
I purchased the item listed below as a Christmas present so it was not opened until now. the disc 1 shadow of the wolf has no data on it.
ASIN: B000BPL2IS
Price Paid: $56.08
Condition: New
Travel, food, bad guys!.......2006-05-07
Travel and sight seeing! Lets all go with Kenshin as he faces Shishio, a man who wishes to replace the weak government with a stronger one. With him as the head, of course. With Lord Shishio's Juppongatana, ten of the most deadly warriors of Japan (one of them a transvestite), he plans to bring about another Revolution. One long story, unlike the Wandering Samurai, this season really allows us to get into the characters, learn new fighting styles and also really shows the improvement of the anime in art and plot.
Season 2 Economy Box.......2006-03-25
The Economy Box set of "Rurouni Kenshin" Season 2 is well worth the price. It is far cheaper than the $139.99 original box set of the Kyoto Arc.
There are 8 discs (which I found to be a surprise). The discs are the same as the ones you would get if you purchased the more expensive version (they are identical in all respects except for the "Rurouni Kenshin" logo on the disc itself which has been changed to fit the style of the graphic novels). The box is unlike the original set and there are no special sleeves to hold the discs. The box for the economy set is basically an oversized DVD box.
A minor flaw was the packaging of the discs. They overlapped in two parts of the box (which made them more susceptible to scratches) and some were difficult to remove and put back.
If you've seen the show and know the story, skip the following paragraphs.
The story follows Kenshin and his journey to stop the madman Shishio Makoto from gaining control of Japan. Main and secondary characters get larger roles and new ones are introduced.
The action scenes are well done. The best one, by far, is the fight between Kenshin and Saito Hajime (of the Shinsengumi) in the episodes after the beginning of the season.
The one thing that may bother new fans is the inconsistency of the animation. I have read that there were "guest artists" who lended their skills to a batch of episodes every now and then. The results are sometimes subtle, but in some they are very apparent and distracting. Because you get used to the initial style, the transition becomes rather annoying. Besides the art style changing, the quality of the animation also varies at specific times. The Kenshin-Saito fight and ensuing episode have an apparent animation differences from the other episodes: they're more detailed and flow beautifully. Though this is a good thing, the abrupt change to a slightly lower quality animation in the following episode is displeasing.
Overall, the economy box is worth purchase. It has a good price and the second season of "Rurouni Kenshin" is darker, more enjoyable, and one of the reasons this series is known as a classic.
Kenshin Review.......2006-02-20
First off I have to say that I'm a big Kenshin fan, best anime series in my opinion, with Inuyasha following close behind. This DVD set was awesome the menu's, extra's, and all the rest were all nicely done and I loved it. If you are a true Kenshin, Japan, or Samurai lover then this DVD set will be sure to fill you with hours of none stop action and thrills. This story line was in my opinion one of the best, the bad guy was one of Kenshin's hardest battles pushing him to the brink of death and back. In this story the relationship between Kenshin and Kaoru reaches its peak, with both of them realizing what they really mean to each other. So I give this DVD set 5 out of 5(lol, I would give it a 6 but it will not let me go that high)
Description
After the epic of Kyoto, Kenshin and his group settle back into their usual cycle of adventures. Old friends like Yutaro and Misao make appearances, as do villians like Shogo Amakusa, a rogue warrior who fights with the same sword style as Kenshin.
Customer Reviews:
Box in bad shape.......2007-07-19
The DVDs are fine so I can see. The box in which the DVDs came in was smashed and broken but DVDs seem to play OK.
good series bad box.......2007-06-08
the series is good but the box is bad the first and last disks will be scratched severly so I suggest that you make a backup of these two disks immediatly after the purchase
For younger people but still good........2007-05-30
If you like it when people kick people's a**es without killing them this is for you. There is still killing but not done by Kenshin. Kids can watch this but adults will enjoy it too.
Not my favorite.......2007-01-09
I'll be the first to admit that I'm a big Kenshin fan. I started reading the manga and was so hooked I had to start the anime. Fortunately, I had read before seeing the third season that Watsuki (the writer/artist for Rurouni Kenshin) was finishing the Kyoto plotline just barely ahead of the anime artists and that for the third season the anime would be different than the books otherwise I would've been highly disappointed by the anime. It was extremely obvious that the anime writers didn't have a good grip on Kenshin's character (as was obvious as well in some of the "filler" episodes in season 1), or they thought it was a great idea for a character, but wanted Kenshin to be their character instead of realizing that they were just borrowing Watsuki's character. Still, this season does have some interesting characters and episodes. If you're a fan who just wants more Kenshin and is willing to completely suspend your disbelief, then you'll enjoy it. If you only want Kenshin exactly as he is in the manga with no deviation at all in character, you're not going to enjoy this as much as you hope.
All Over the Place...........True Fans ONLY!!!!!!.......2006-08-05
This season of Rurouni Kenshin has got to be da weirdest ones. The season starts off like Season 1, mini events that happen in Tokyo n Kenshin as always saves the da, also some comedic episodes. but then It gets a lil interesting when a guy name Shougo Amakusa comes by and is said to be the son of god. What makes it also interesting is dat he has also inherited the style of Hiten Mitsurugi (Kenshins exact Same Style). From that point it gets too religious with Christianity, It then gets a lil annoying and u wander when its gonna end and move on with the series. basically the series is all over the place, so basically get this if u absolutly luv Kenshin and want to see more.......
Amazon.com
As he did in Samurai X: Trust & Betrayal (Director's Cut), director Kazuhiro Furuhashi has re-edited episodes of the Samurai X OVA into a seamless feature. Shinta, the child who grew up to become the assassin Battousai the Manslayer and the wanderer Kenshin Himura, returns to being just Shinta in the arms of his beloved second wife Kaoru. The story takes place 1893, long after Kenshin's bloody deeds during the civil wars that led to the Meiji Restoration--and the previous OVAs that culminated in the death of Kenshin's first wife, Tomoe. Despite his efforts at expiation, Kenshin's soul is burdened with many deaths and can find no peace in this world. Furuhashi has added new still images and repeated some shots to achieve a more deliberate narrative pace. Kenshin's tragedy concludes amid the falling cherry blossoms that symbolize the evanescent life of a samurai. Darker in tone than the popular Rurouni Kenshin broadcast series, Trust & Betrayal is a moving and skillfully told elegy. (Rated 17 and older: violence, alcohol use, mature themes) --Charles Solomon
Description
Rurouni Kenshin is a wanderer, a lost soul, cursed to seek atonement for his life in the bloody trade of the samurai, known throughout all Japan as the Hitokiri Battousai (sword-bearing master assassin). The peacetime after a long war to overthrow a corr
Customer Reviews:
Samurai X - Reflection.......2007-08-31
Boring.... too much taling and walking, not enough fighting. Dont pay the full 26.00 price, worth about 3 bucks only
reconciling the different reviews.......2007-08-09
I see that the reviews on this DVD are divided into two groups: ones who love it, ones who hate it. So, maybe my review would be helpful to the new reader. Kenshin series has two faces to it. The first one, which is mostly reflected in the TV series is the legend of a Samurai, with utmost skill and best of intentions. The atmosphere is gay and uplifting and it's a great series for both kids and adults. The second face -or the deeper layer of the story- is the legend of the struggle of a man's soul in the journey of life, the story of repent, immense sorrow and indefinite pain. This side of the story is transparent in the TV series and only reveals itself in the trilogy of Trust, Betrayal and Samurai X Reflection. Unlike the TV series, and in harmony with the content, these DVDs are extremely dark and gloomy, definitely not suitable for children.
So, it's perfectly fine to just go after the TV series and never get to these three. However, if you can handle a bitter story but are looking for true depth then proceed.
I also saw comments on an over-romantic organization of Samurai X reflection. I don't say it's not true. However, I recommend taking it a little more symbolically than by its face value. It's the story of Kenshin's soul striving to overcome the pain, and the devotion of people who care about him. It's difficult to portray that, so the creator uses personification of love, compassion and pain in a mundane form, which, I believe, could look a little too base to some people. But get over the surface and you'll see the beauty.
Uninspired and Flawed Storytelling Nigh Unwatchable.......2007-06-03
As many have commented, this movie does not feel like Ruroni Kenshin. The tone is bleak and hopeless and lacks the magical elements of the series. When one watches a Star Wars episode, you know it's Star Wars. Here though except for the cross-marked scar and red hair, I would not have known it to be Ruroni Kenshin.
The basic plot is that Kenshin wanders across China helping the sick while Kaoru waits for his return. He is for the most part uninspiring and unlovable as he speaks in bland tones over and over about his guilt. This may have been acceptable at the very beginning of the series but here at the end, it completely disregards his development and all the humanity (his humanity) for which he fought. Please note as well that we're never shown any of the work that Kenshin does or the aid he offers to people; all we're shown is him feeling guilty or looking over the sea.
Kaoru's plight is even more pathetic; basically she spends every day going to the harbour and then going back home and everyone asks her "Kenshin didn't come back?" She then spends a fair amount of time being sick and receiving care from everyone else. How is this supposed to be heroic?
The story is also told through flashbacks featuring some fo the best animation sequences I've seen, but again these snips are poorly sewn together. In none of these sequences do I see anything to explain Kaoru's dedication or love; nor do I see Kenshin's peace or happiness at home. The flashbacks are by the way the only part of the movie that contains fighting/action scenes.
***************** SPOILER ALERT *************************
The ending is not necessarily a bad one if it had been built up correctly. Basically Kenshin walks back home; falls into Kaoru's arms and dies in peace. However, having been bored and alienated by self-pity drivel in the first 98% of the movie, this wasn't as strong or potent. I felt sad because this was the "end" of the character of Kenshin who I have watched and read; and thought he deserved a better send-off.
A better example of a noble ending is in the Lone Wolf & Cub Manga.
I suppose I should be added to the list of people who want to pretend this never happened. I think it may have been Shinta (Kenshin's birth name) who died but not the legend Kenshin. I hope they do release another Kenshi movie and say this was just a bad dream, the kind you have after drinking sour milk.
Pathetic!!!!!!!.......2007-05-13
I've seen Samurai X-Reflection on the net and i gotta say, it is pathetic as the title says. Imma big Ruruoni kenshin fan and i can't believe the OVA strayed away from the Anime.. Wut happened to Kenshin?? all of a sudden he looks weak and lacking of confidence.. he's not the same Kenshin Himura i used to know..i prefer the original anime designs from the series, i liked it better...i hated the ending, kenshin dying..no way.. i was pissseddd off cuz of dat...the ending in the anime series was 100x better than this...i encourage everyone who hasn't seen it to forget about it and not to recognize it as part fo the Kenshin saga...i officially denounce it and will pretend dat it was never made...
To die for!.......2007-05-13
I can watch this movie over and over again and no matter what I still cry.
The sense and the strory behind it is one of the deepest heartbreaking stories ever.
There are a lot of things to explain, but even if you don't know the whole story, is worth it.
If you are interested you should start with the first 3 OVAs, the series, the movie and to close this magnificent OVA.
2 Thumbs up!
Description
Charmed by his peaceful life in Tokyo, Kenshin's thoughts linger on the past. A former member of the Shinsen-gumi, Saitou Hajime was more than a match for the Battosai during the days of the Revolu-tion. Now, Saitou's plot requires the help of a full-strength Kenshin. Therefore, he will attack Kenshin and his loved ones until the violent killer within resurfaces.
Customer Reviews:
The arrival of Saito(By Joey L. Abdullah).......2005-02-01
YES! a bloody blade of saito's sword. in shonen jump novel 7 on the cover saito has a bloody blade. does kenshin's Saka-Bato(Rurouni) stand a chance? I MUST BUY OR RENT THIS!!!!! (13+ for violence,Blood & Gore,& Alchol & Tabacco use.)
P.S. SAITO RULES!!!!!!!!!!
Hey I may sound like a twerp but i ain'tI lik these episodes.......2004-12-04
Let me get this straight. First of all u better not purposly sa my reveiw is idiotic just because I'm sum punk 11 year old. i would use a different ID thingy but if i do then i would kind of mess stuff up. I'm a big Rurouni Kenshin fan and I like writin reviews for this stuff. Shadow of Wolf is a really good way for Anime works to have started the series. One thing that was ironic was for them to do that thing were Saito starts his fight with Kenshin and then somewhere about 10 or fewer seconds he stabs kenshin in shoulder who has blood flying everywhere when he gets stabbed then they end the episode after that having to either skip the two theme songs to see wut happens next. Aside from that load of crud every thing else was okay. The fights in Legend of Kyoto have definently improved over Wandering Samurai. Now bout wut I said before. I only said that because my reviews always get ignored or no one thinks their helpful when I try doing stuff 2 help people out but some idiots ( I wish I could write worse) seem to have problems with them. I like tis VHS tape and this DVD because of da really good fight seens. They are so good but if you plan on buying Bits of legend of Kyoto because you have a crush on guys like Sanoske Sagara, or Aoshi Shinomori, or Hajime Saitou (You have to be CRAZY to like Shisio Makoto in that kind of way) then don't buy this for that kind of reason. I will it is full of blood and Violence but its completely nothing for me. Just remember I don't write reviews for freaks who are loking for sum boy off of a cartoon to think about marrying. thats just downright wierd
Ultimate Manslayer Intensity!.......2004-05-27
Contained in this DVD is arguably the most spectacular fight scene of the Rurouni Kenshin series. Although some might claim that the Battosai's later battles rival this one between Saitou and Kenshin, I do not share this opinion. Finally viewers get a glimpse of the real manslayer, not only through flashbacks to his revolution exploits, but more importantly with the masterful use of color, contrast, and motion in this, Kenshin's ultimate battle.
I am almost afraid to say too much, and spoil the surprise for you.
The fight begins in Episode 29 and is concluded in Episode 30.
I really cannot express in words how much I love the contract of color used in the fighting.
The shadowing affect obtained with the employment of various shades of brown and duskier, duller colors not only emphasizes the seriousness of this clash and the emotionless stances of both fighters, but it gives incredible contrast to the bright scarlet blood, shining blades, and the hues used to paint the other characters aside from Himura and Saitou.
I urge you, if you want a taste of true anime greatest, no other DVD could be better to introduce you to this awesome world of Japanese animation.
If I was to buy only one Kenshin DVD, this would definitely be it. A true masterpiece of modern media, you will really be missing out on something great if you pass this up. Indulge a little and treat yourself to a great product.
Greatest fight sequence so far..........2004-04-30
This is absolutely, positively, no-doubt-about-it incredible! Saito is creepy and mean, but there is honor there, and a small bit of kindness. A former Shinsengumi leader, he is now a police officer, and uses his position (both of them) to his advantage. Of the "bad guys" Kenshin's faced so far, Saito is tied with Aoshi for number one on my list of favorites. I can't say I'd ever like to meet Saito in person, but as a character he is great!
Now, for the fight scene. I'm not kidding when I saw that this is the coolest fight so far. I'm not going to give anything away, but just let me say that this fight alone is worth the money for the dvd. I was blown away by it, and I think you will be too.
Voice acting is normal for this series. The subbed version is awesome, and the dubbed version needs to be destroyed as soon as possible. The English acting sounds stilted and the voices are wrong, especially Kenshin's. My God, I hate the dubbed version!
The art is gorgeous! I love how they did the fights. The animators did a terrific job with the Saito-Kenshin fight, considering that it was taking place at dusk and both characters move incredibly fast.
So, to sum it up--WATCH THIS! If nothing else, you at least need to see the Saito-Kenshin fight! I also loved the scene where Kenshin leaves. Now go WATCH IT!
The Best Episodes.......2004-02-23
I LOVE this DVD. Anyone who is a Rurouni Kenshin fan or just a Hajime Saitou fan like I am will love these episodes. It's the first appearance of Saitou, former member of the Shinsengumi. This DVD rules cause it includes the greatest battle in Rurouni Kenshin history. Never will you ever see a better duel. And Saitou doesn't see much action during the rest of the Kyoto arc, so this is his biggest battle. Any Ruroken fan should get this DVD right away! It's worth it!
Amazon.com
The four-episode Samurai X original animation video captures the mixture of swordplay and poetry that makes Japanese warrior culture so intriguing to viewers on both sides of the Pacific. The OAV series serves as a prequel to both Samurai X: The Movie and the more lighthearted TV series. The action unfolds in 1864, when a few clans began the revolt that would overthrow the military dictatorship of the Tokugawa Shogunate and return power to the Emperor in the Meiji Restoration of 1868. Shinta, a lonely orphan, is transformed by master swordsman Hiko into Kenshin Himura, an assassin in the service of Katsuga, one of the revolutionary leaders. Kenshin kills whomever Katsuga orders with consummate skill and unshatterable calm. He believes he is using his sword to bring about a better world, even as the intrigues and counter-intrigues escalate. But he becomes aware of unspoken doubts when he meets Tomoe, a mysterious girl whose beauty, like the iris, is seen to best advantage in cloudy weather. Director Kazuhiro Furuhashi choreographs the sword fights with a grace that infuses even scenes of extreme violence with an elegant sensuality: in one striking image, he focuses on the rain washing a spatter of blood from Tomoe's cheek. The dialogue in the English translation often sounds stilted, but the words are usually superfluous. Furuhashi's ability to present a story visually has made Samurai X a popular anime property in America and Japan. Unrated; suitable for ages 18 and up for explicit violence. --Charles Solomon
Customer Reviews:
Part 1 of probably the best anime film ever.......2006-08-04
It always surprises me the stigma that anime has. Despite the fact there's fairly innocent anime shows like Love Hina or Fruits Basket, people focus on the ultra-violent ones like Akira or Evangelion. Don't get me wrong, the Samurai X OVA's are indeed bloody as well but there's also a poetic atmosphere running through the entire thing that rivals even the best Hollywood productions. Even though the separated OVA's kind of ruin the flow, it's still a memorable look at a man forever scarred.
Shinta was with a group of slave traders who were then killed by bandits. A man saves Shinta and takes him on as a swordsman apprentice. Renamed Kenshin Himura, he becomes the legendary Hitokiri Battousai(although he's never named that here), an assassin wanting to take down an oppressive government. He ends up meeting a woman named Tomoe who is slowly starting to calm him down and give him some humanity. But there's something in her past that connects her with Kenshin which is tearing her up.
Keep in mind this is a really violent film, even more so than you normally see from Kenshin. While nothing really gets cut off(at times), there's a lot of huge sword slashes and blood flows a lot. But it's not done in a kind of exploitative blood for blood's sake like other anime so it's better handled considering how violent it is.
The animation is quite fluid and really expressive which helps the film considerably, allowing a more poetic imagery to come across. The one thing that you'll notice but won't really pay that much attention to is the character designs. Kenshin, while still retaining his red hair and clothes, looks remarkably different in design to the show.
Now the question of whether or not to watch is obvious: a resounding yes. Whether you choose to watch it after finishing the Kyoto Arc of Rurouni Kenshin(do NOT watch the 3rd season) is entirely up to you.
Samurai X! The Precuel the Rurouni KenshinThis DVD was awesome! I've never seen anything like it! .......2006-03-05
This DVD was awesome! I've never seen anything like it! It may be a bit bloody but who cares about that! this is definately a must buy!
The Best anime movie........2005-07-29
If you've read the Rurouni Kenshin manga or watched the Rurouni Kenshin series you'll love this movie. I think you would love this movie even if you didn't know anything about Rurouni Kenshin. It is rated for people 17 and up mainly for violence, but there is also alcohol, and some jokes. And one small sugjestive cene, but it is nothing compared to many PG13 anime shows. It's mainly violent. The art is wonderful, truly captivating. And the story is engaging, and the characters are complex. The story is about Himura Kenshin and how he becomes a hitokiri(assassin)for the Ishin Shishi. The story is placed in the chaotic times of the Bakumatsu. It's a wonderful story of love and hate, trust and betrayal, your justice and the justice of the enemy. You can watch it over and over again, and get something out of it each time. I sugjest that you buy Samurai X Trust and Betrayal in Director's Cut instead of buying them separate, it's better that way and you save some money. You really should buy this movie. Thank you.
a action-packed dang movie!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!( By: Joey).......2005-01-30
the legacy of Bai'tosai!!!!!!!! sweet kenshin with tons of violence!! it is what I think is 17+ for EXTRA VIOLENCE,ect.
ect.:
1)violence
2)more violence
3)alchol re. ( For instance Margerita, Beer, Wine, ect.)
4)tobacco re. (For instance cigar, cigarettte, pipe,ect.)
5)whaddda ya' know even more VIOLENCE!
(i messed up on my first review on yuyu movie.)
He probably was a samurai..........2004-06-06
If he wasnt a samurai, like one of the previous earlier posts suggests, why was he permitted to adorn the two swords? this is not allowed in society if he was not a retainer.
Amazon.com
The final OAV in the Samurai X/Rurouni Kenshin continuity brings the long-running saga of master swordsman and assassin Kenshin Himura to its conclusion. The story is set in 1893, long after the bloody conflicts of the Meiji Restoration--and the events in the previous OAVs that culminated in the death of Kenshin's wife, Tomoe. With his devoted second wife, Kaoru, Kenshin seeks peace in trying to aid the helpless. But he cannot escape the karmic burden of the many deaths he caused: there is no peace for Kenshin in this world. The Japanese concept of the transitory nature of beauty permeates the two-part adventure. Director Kazuhiro Furuhashi ushers the narrative along at a deliberate pace, deftly inserting the many flashback sequences. The result is a properly elegiac farewell to one of most popular anime characters on both sides of the Pacific. (Rated 17 and older: violence, alcohol use, mature themes) --Charles Solomon
Description
Rurouni Kenshin is a wanderer, a lost soul, cursed to seek atonement for his life in the bloody trade of the samurai. During the long war to overthrow the corrupt government, he was known throughout all Japan as the Hitokiri Battousai ("sword-bearing master assassin"). But the end of the war has brought no peace to Kenshin, despite a vow to draw his sword only for the protection of those in need. Now his wife Kaoru steadfastly awaits his return, mourning his absence as well as that of their son, Kenji. Will Kenshin return before she dies of grief? The past meets the present fifteen years after Kenshin first left.
Customer Reviews:
Samurai X - Reflection.......2007-08-31
Boring.... too much taling and walking, not enough fighting. Dont pay the full 26.00 price, worth about 3 bucks only
reconciling the different reviews.......2007-08-09
I see that the reviews on this DVD are divided into two groups: ones who love it, ones who hate it. So, maybe my review would be helpful to the new reader. Kenshin series has two faces to it. The first one, which is mostly reflected in the TV series is the legend of a Samurai, with utmost skill and best of intentions. The atmosphere is gay and uplifting and it's a great series for both kids and adults. The second face -or the deeper layer of the story- is the legend of the struggle of a man's soul in the journey of life, the story of repent, immense sorrow and indefinite pain. This side of the story is transparent in the TV series and only reveals itself in the trilogy of Trust, Betrayal and Samurai X Reflection. Unlike the TV series, and in harmony with the content, these DVDs are extremely dark and gloomy, definitely not suitable for children.
So, it's perfectly fine to just go after the TV series and never get to these three. However, if you can handle a bitter story but are looking for true depth then proceed.
I also saw comments on an over-romantic organization of Samurai X reflection. I don't say it's not true. However, I recommend taking it a little more symbolically than by its face value. It's the story of Kenshin's soul striving to overcome the pain, and the devotion of people who care about him. It's difficult to portray that, so the creator uses personification of love, compassion and pain in a mundane form, which, I believe, could look a little too base to some people. But get over the surface and you'll see the beauty.
Uninspired and Flawed Storytelling Nigh Unwatchable.......2007-06-03
As many have commented, this movie does not feel like Ruroni Kenshin. The tone is bleak and hopeless and lacks the magical elements of the series. When one watches a Star Wars episode, you know it's Star Wars. Here though except for the cross-marked scar and red hair, I would not have known it to be Ruroni Kenshin.
The basic plot is that Kenshin wanders across China helping the sick while Kaoru waits for his return. He is for the most part uninspiring and unlovable as he speaks in bland tones over and over about his guilt. This may have been acceptable at the very beginning of the series but here at the end, it completely disregards his development and all the humanity (his humanity) for which he fought. Please note as well that we're never shown any of the work that Kenshin does or the aid he offers to people; all we're shown is him feeling guilty or looking over the sea.
Kaoru's plight is even more pathetic; basically she spends every day going to the harbour and then going back home and everyone asks her "Kenshin didn't come back?" She then spends a fair amount of time being sick and receiving care from everyone else. How is this supposed to be heroic?
The story is also told through flashbacks featuring some fo the best animation sequences I've seen, but again these snips are poorly sewn together. In none of these sequences do I see anything to explain Kaoru's dedication or love; nor do I see Kenshin's peace or happiness at home. The flashbacks are by the way the only part of the movie that contains fighting/action scenes.
***************** SPOILER ALERT *************************
The ending is not necessarily a bad one if it had been built up correctly. Basically Kenshin walks back home; falls into Kaoru's arms and dies in peace. However, having been bored and alienated by self-pity drivel in the first 98% of the movie, this wasn't as strong or potent. I felt sad because this was the "end" of the character of Kenshin who I have watched and read; and thought he deserved a better send-off.
A better example of a noble ending is in the Lone Wolf & Cub Manga.
I suppose I should be added to the list of people who want to pretend this never happened. I think it may have been Shinta (Kenshin's birth name) who died but not the legend Kenshin. I hope they do release another Kenshi movie and say this was just a bad dream, the kind you have after drinking sour milk.
Pathetic!!!!!!!.......2007-05-13
I've seen Samurai X-Reflection on the net and i gotta say, it is pathetic as the title says. Imma big Ruruoni kenshin fan and i can't believe the OVA strayed away from the Anime.. Wut happened to Kenshin?? all of a sudden he looks weak and lacking of confidence.. he's not the same Kenshin Himura i used to know..i prefer the original anime designs from the series, i liked it better...i hated the ending, kenshin dying..no way.. i was pissseddd off cuz of dat...the ending in the anime series was 100x better than this...i encourage everyone who hasn't seen it to forget about it and not to recognize it as part fo the Kenshin saga...i officially denounce it and will pretend dat it was never made...
To die for!.......2007-05-13
I can watch this movie over and over again and no matter what I still cry.
The sense and the strory behind it is one of the deepest heartbreaking stories ever.
There are a lot of things to explain, but even if you don't know the whole story, is worth it.
If you are interested you should start with the first 3 OVAs, the series, the movie and to close this magnificent OVA.
2 Thumbs up!
Description
Kenshin's swordsmanship has always been the strongest, but he is not a true master of the Hiten Mitsurugi Style. As a young revolutionary, Kenshin abandoned his martial training prematurely, in order to become a killer and tread the dark path of the Battousai. Finally, Kenshin is determined to finish what he started, and is reunited with his former master, Seijuro Hiko.
Customer Reviews:
the only action anime to come close to dragonballz and gt.......2003-03-18
it is a slashing action anime it has great potintal for being great
The Mastering of the Succession Technique!.......2002-12-16
If you thought Luke Skywalker going back to Yoda to complete his Jedi training was cool, keep your panties on! Because this part of the Rurouni Kenshin series has evolved to become maybe my favorite part! Yes even over Shadow of the Wolf, Blind Justice, Innocence and Experience, and Fire Requiem! This disc contains the return of Hiko, Sejuro, only the coolest character in this series!! Also in this disc you will learn what it takes to pass on the Hiten Mitsurugi Technique from master to apprentice, and why there can only be one successor! When are they going to release a series based on his Hiko's past exploits?? CUMMON MANGA KA! YOU MUST CREATE SOMETHING ABOUT THE PAST OF HIKO SEJURO...and maybe the later adventures of SOJIRO (when he leaves shishio's juppon gatana)!
Legend Of Hiko Sounds Good...........2002-12-15
This DVD features the ending of the battle against Chou, Kenshin gets a new sakubatou and proceedes to his master's hut in the mountains, here he begs his master to train him in the final secrets, and reunites with Kaoru and Yahiko
Hiko finally agrees and Kenshin's training completes after a few episodes of Hiko yelling at him, the last episode is a bit of a cliffhanger when Kenshin masters the final attack
Kenshin's past is dug into a bit, but if you have watched the Rurouni Kenshin OVA (Samurai X Trust and Betrayal) you will notice ALOT of differences, personnaly I think that both stories are good(the OVA one was a bit short)
Overall if you're this far, don't stop, it gets better
The best DVD of the best anime series of all time (Oh yes..).......2002-01-13
This is the highlight of Rurouni Kenshin, my favorite anime series of all time. This disk features my favorite character, Hiko, at his peak... this disk should be called Rurouni Kenshin: Legend of Hiko. Everybody should see this disk (and the rest of them)... it is hotter than the hottest bacon.
Kenshin RULES.......2001-09-19
hands down, Rurouni Kenshin is by farone of the best animes I have seen, I have not seen all of the series yet, but since the Samurai X OAV's I have been hooked and have the collect up till this DVD, and this one is just as good as all the others, Kenshin's cute anime style, mixed in with the serious side of the whole dealing with life, and the world around us type situations makes this a deep story as it is entertaining, words just cant say enough about it I recommend it to EVERYONE! Hiten Mitsurugi Style--Ama Kakeru Ryu no Hirameki....
DVD:
- Rurouni Kenshin - Shadow of the Wolf
- Sailor Moon S - Heart Collection III: TV Series, Vols. 5 & 6 (Uncut)
- Sailor Moon S - Heart Collection IV: TV Series, Vols. 7 & 8 (Uncut)
- Sakura Diaries, Vol. 2: Love & Kisses
- Serial Experiments - Lain: Deus (Layers 8-10)
- Shadow Raiders - A Dangerous Enemy (Vol. 2)
- Shadow Raiders - Brave New World (Vol. 5)
- Sorcerer Hunters - Magical Battles (Vol 4)
- Sorcerer Hunters - Magical Contests (Vol 3)
- Sorcerer Hunters - Magical Desires (Vol 2)
DVD
DVD
Samurai X - Complete
Yu Yu Hakusho Completed Collections
Samurai X - The Motion Picture (Rurouni Kenshin)
Trigun - The Complete Boxed Set
