“I will wander again.”
[dropcap size=small]N[/dropcap]obuhiro Watsuki’s hit manga and anime series Rurouni Kenshin (sometimes referred to as Samurai X) got its very own live-action trilogy back in 2012 and 2014, and thanks to the good folks over at FUNimation, the trilogy is set to return to the big screens in select theatres across the US this fall!
“Rurouni Kenshin, one of the most beloved Japanese swordsman manga and anime the world over, has been adapted to the silver screen for a series of three thrilling, action-packed movies—and we’re bringing all three to theaters across the US this fall!”
The dates are as follows:
Movie 1: Rurouni Kenshin: Origins | August 8 – 10
Movie 2: Rurouni Kenshin: Kyoto Inferno | September 12 – 14
Movie 3: Rurouni Kenshin: The Legend Ends | October 3 – 5
Even if you’ve missed the first movie, have no fear, because what is perhaps even more exciting is the fact that FUNimation are also bringing Rurouni Kenshin: Origins out on Blu-Ray and DVD – and we very much hope the other two will get the same treatment.
After winning over many a heart at the height of its popularity in the late 90’s, the samurai sword-fighting series follows the adventures of a once legendary assassin who becomes a wondering swordsman in rural Japan. Seeking to offer protection to those in need in order to gain atonement, the series begins when our protagonist Himura Kenshin stumbles upon a struggling martial arts school in the Meiji era.
It’s not hard to understand why Rurouni Kenshin is so well-loved. With its engaging plot-line, interesting array of characters and excellent action scenes, it really does have something for everyone, and the generous helpings of comedy make it all the more lovable.
Every time I reflect back on the humour all I hear is “Oro?” – need I say more? [Insert heart sign here]
Since it’s such a popular anime it’s easy to feel a little apprehensive about a live-action adaptation. But in this case, the Rurouni Kenshin trio of movies are generally perceived to be some of the best and most faithful live-action adaptations out there.
In fact, Kotaku even went as far as to say Rorouni Kenshin: Origins was one of the best in recent memory, with the second and third receiving similar praise. Just by looking at shots from the films with their accurate character portrayals makes the adaptations stand out as a cut above the rest:
And if that doesn’t convince you, FUNimation makes much the same claim:
The three films cover some of the best stories the series has to offer (spanning the early beginnings of Kenshin meeting Kaoru, Sano, and the rest, to the end of the fan-favorite Shishio Makoto arc, if you’re familiar with the original), and you won’t want to miss a single film in the series.
As a Brit, I can’t help but personally envy all you lucky folks in the US, and I can only hope that the fantastic movies get a universal release in future.
If you want to check out more about the Rurouni Kenshin live-action trilogy (where you can also check if the movies are playing in a theatre near you), you can do so here.
