Column by John Vo
Kagero, a beautiful female ninja, is the soul survivor of a team sent to investigate the mysterious plaque that has destroyed the village of Shimoda. She is captured by Tessai, one of the Eight Devils of Kimon, who proceeds to perform hot-ninja-love action on the unwilling beauty. Luckily for her, Jubei Kibagami — a wandering ninja who happened to be sleeping nearby — saves her, thus incurring the wrath of Tessai.
Jubei is later ambushed by Tessai and although brutally beaten, emerges victorious. This battle is witnessed by Dakuan, a government spy tracking the activities of the Kimon Devils. Dakuan enlists the aid of the reluctant Jubei, and together with Kagero, the unlikey trio make their way through each of the Kimon Devils and ultimately face off with the Devil’s leader Genma; a powerful enemy who has the powers of reincarnation.
Ninja Scroll introduces some of the coolest characters ever as each one has a special talent and you watch in anticipation wondering “What can THIS guy do?” This movie is not for kids and that is what makes it so cool. The gore is not overly-abundant but when it is used, it really adds to the atomosphere of the movie. There are some scenes that will actually make you cringe. Good Stuff!
The animation is well-done and remains consistent throughout the whole movie. There is no switching back and forth between goofy looking faces and serious faces as is often found in Japanese anime. The soundtrack is adequate but is nothing to write home about. However, the animation and sound are not what makes this movie great. What makes Ninja Scroll excel is its storyline and the pacing in which it is told.
How much is it worth? Ninja Scroll is a classic that is a must-have in every anime fan’s collection. It is worth twice the MSRP of $29.95.
