Sword of the Stranger Review
/
If you like dismemberment, overly bloody fight scenes and great art, then "Sword of the Stranger" is for you.
When I decided to rent "Sword of the Stranger". I didn't really know much about it. The summary on the back of the case gave a generic explanation of the plot and the main characters names. However, while watching this movie something happened that I didn't expect. Just twenty minutes into the movie I was sitting on the edge of my seat waiting for the next fight scene. I realize how weird that sounds, that the main plot wasn't what kept me watching, but I've got the be honest. The skillful art that made up the scripted fight sequences is really what keeps this movie apart from many others.
"Sword of the Stranger" is about a young boy, Kotarou, and his dog, Tobimaru, running away from what is later explained as the Chinese Ming Dynasty Army. While stopping for the evening he comes across a samurai who has no name. While Kotaru is reluctant for help, he realizes he doesn't have much of an option after Tobimaru is injured protecting him from an attack. Kotarou "employees" No-Name as his body guard and the two begin their journey to get Kotarou to a place he believes will protect him from the dangers following so closely.
As soon as the title menu appears there is a mesmerizing melody that draws you in to starting the movie. It is well orchestrated score that has the ability to take the viewer on a journey all its own. It encompasses the mood and intensity of each sequence accented by the fluid animation and captivating art.
The movie is pretty formulaic as far as the characters. They are generic and follow a pattern of growth much expected. Kotarou while he doesn't want the help, realizes he needs it. He starts off bratty and "independent". As Kotraou and No-Name continue their journey together, he is able to soften his attitude and once again act his true age. No-Name reveals a secret about himself and the two create a bond much like that of brothers, it's not revolutionary character development. Don't get me wrong, the characters may follow a formula, but it is undeniable that the presentation of this movie makes up for this. It doesn't over load the viewer with too much or become convoluted. By doing this the viewer is able to follow the story and see the beauty of the relationship, as simple as that may be.
The area where this anime sets itself apart from the rest are the fight sequences and how well done that are. It's hard to get over how amazing these confrontations become throughout the movie. Though the film may follow a formula seen before, it differs in the perfect execution of the fighting, both in movement and art style. Each encounter between enemies has beautifully drawn movements and bloody dismemberments, building the anticipation and excitement which drive the movie along. It all leads up to ad jaw dropping climax, the final confrontation of the movie. The scenes execution is done seamlessly without any moments of perforation to interrupt their encounter, until only one is left standing, not only having defeated their enemy, but a past that has long haunted them. This movie is 2D animation, yet captures fluid motions expected to only be achievable in 3D sequences. It really pushes the boundaries of hand drawn animations' capability. (It is noted that 3D was used in the making of this film, however, it was only used when trying to show the depth of things such as arrows flying past.)
I really don't believe there will be many who don't like this movie. There's few things in the movie to dislike. I realize that story wise there is nothing in the movie that hasn't been done before, but once you see the exquisitely numerated fight scenes it will be apparent why this movie is a one of kind and must see film.
