Ninja Scroll: Still Fun, 30 Years Later

Key Takeaways

• Iconic film Ninja Scroll recently celebrated its 30th anniversary with a limited theatrical run, showcasing its enduring influence.
• An ero-guro genre action spectacle combining the erotic and the grotesque, providing unforgettable and bold viewing experience.
• While Ninja Scroll’s narrative might be thin, its exciting action sequences, artwork, and charismatic characters have helped it achieve cult status.

As someone who grew up watching anime and action movies in the ’90s, I have to say that “Ninja Scroll” holds a special place in my heart. The film’s groundbreaking animation and thrilling action sequences were a sight to behold back then, and they still are today. However, revisiting it after all these years has made me realize that it hasn’t aged as gracefully as I would have hoped.

Among anime studios, there are few as legendary or respected as Madhouse, and among its distinguished creative heads, scarcely any are as iconic – whether for their creativity or impact – as Yoshiaki Kawajiri. Lately, Kawajiri’s “Ninja Scroll” marked the (delayed) 30th anniversary with a brief theatrical release in North America, and even after all these years, it remains an exhilarating adventure meticulously designed to quicken the pulse.

From September 11th through the 13th, Iconic Events showed the classic anime film “Ninja Scroll,” which was first released in Japan in 1993, as part of Anime Expo Cinema Nights. This screening included a pre-show interview with the director. Kawajiri’s masterpiece, “Ninja Scroll,” gained popularity during the ’90s anime craze following its Western release and is still considered one of his best works today.

You’ll Know Why It’s A Cult Classic

Ninja Scroll serves as an extraordinary fusion of inspiration from the director’s predecessors and a groundbreaking work that has significantly influenced others in its own right. It stands shoulder-to-shoulder with classics like Ghost in the Shell, inspiring creators such as the Wachowskis to bring us masterpieces like The Matrix. For many, it was and still is a trendsetter, particularly for younger audiences who found its unique blend of action, spectacle, and violence unfamiliar.

The Story of Ninja Scroll

The movie chronicles the journey of Jubei Kibagami, a swordsman-for-hire roaming Japan, until an unexpected event propels him into a nation-saving mission. Despite his disinterest in politics, circumstances force him to assist the last living member of a Ninja clan who is probing the source of a deadly disease that wiped out a village. On this quest, he engages in combat with the Kimon’s Demons to prevent their scheme for overthrowing the government.

Structurally, the story has a distinctly video game-like quality that adds greatly to its charm. This film is like a thrilling quest filled with strategically placed challenges, which are essentially battles against formidable foes, each of whom possesses a unique appearance, abilities, or powers. Interestingly, Jubei appears relatively ordinary compared to these opponents, save for his exceptional swordsmanship. This portrays him as something of an underdog, and every time he emerges victorious, it feels like a well-deserved triumph.

An Ero-Guro Action Spectacle

Initially showcasing Jubei, the film establishes its central storyline with a chilling, horror-like scene. A band of ninjas, their skills evident, are brutally massacred by an unimaginable force – a man whose skin is as hard as stone. The sole survivor of this unexpected attack, Kagero, witnesses in terror as the head of her clan is dismembered.

The genre ‘Ero-guro,’ which blends the erotic and the grotesque, perfectly encapsulates the feel of Ninja Scroll. Although it can be considered pornographic, the label fits equally well for the depiction of combat as for the sexual content. The sensual and appealing are intertwined with the horrific and supernatural, creating a daring and indelible visual spectacle. Your first viewing of this movie is an experience you won’t easily forget.

A Simple Story, But Thoughtful Execution

Although it appears straightforward, it transcends simplicity in its peak moments. The execution is masterful, the artistry exquisite, making a simple categorization unjust. While the narrative might seem slim, its delivery imparts a compelling flow to the movie. The action is thrilling, yet it also shows remarkable restraint; it skillfully builds tension before the climax. The battle between Jubei and Tessai serves as a striking demonstration of this balance.

In this battle, an ordinary-looking swordsman who resembles many others you’ve seen meet their end, squares off against a grotesque, stone-bodied beast with a sinister streak. The confrontation unfolds gradually, heightening the suspense, and when the violent climax arrives, it’s all the more rewarding. Ninja Scroll is known for its innovative fight sequences and isn’t afraid to push the boundaries of graphic violence.

Spectacle Can’t Solve Everything

The rhythm of the movie is well-balanced, the characters are unique and indelible, and the action is intensely violent in an engaging manner, which contributes significantly to its cult following. However, it’s important to note that when the story requires explanation, the film tends to lack intrigue.

Although the historical backdrop of the movie’s location is captivating, the execution seems rather dull. This could potentially weaken the final showdown, but the impressive presentation manages to salvage it. It’s important to understand that “aesthetic” doesn’t mean a lack of story; it encompasses the narrative itself. The climax of “Ninja Scroll,” despite a less compelling buildup, is generally considered exceptional. However, what truly hinders the narrative more significantly is the pervasive sexism present throughout the film.

Second, the Kagero Problem

In a movie primarily focused on character development and relationships, a weak plot might be overlooked. Regrettably, the portrayal of Kagero falls short, making her character less engaging than expected. Despite an impressive debut, she fails to showcase any exciting moments, and surprisingly, she doesn’t get to fight off any villains apart from Tessai initially. Even then, there’s a significant condition – her body poisons anyone who sleeps with her.

Tessai died because he sexually assaulted Kagero before fighting Jubei. Even then, her poison is chalked up to an assist, as Jubei ends up making Tessai fall on his sword, reducing her contributions to a pittance. Meanwhile, her entire arc is about the shame of having a poisonous body. One might charitably interpret her arc as Kagero learning to see herself as more than just an object thanks to Jubei treating her like a person, but that’s giving it too much credit.

She doesn’t have enough self-determination for her message to appear sincere. Moreover, even if Kagero hadn’t experienced sexual assault (twice, it should be noted), their relationship with Jubei wasn’t particularly intriguing to start with. The issue lies in the fact that she plays a significant role in the story, making it frustrating that a film packed with legendary action didn’t provide more depth for one of its main characters.

Has Ninja Scroll Aged Well?

When I revisited the theater to catch this movie once more, knowing its 31-year age, I expected certain elements to seem outdated. However, it was disheartening to find that many of these flaws were still prevalent throughout the film. Contrary to popular belief, the title wasn’t misleading – it remains an enjoyable action movie. Unfortunately, it didn’t live up to my fond memories, making it tougher to acknowledge its strengths. Yet, it’s important to note that there were still moments of appreciation to be found in it.

While other movies may surpass Ninja Scroll, nothing quite duplicates its unique blend of creativity and execution. Its exceptional artwork and direction truly set it apart. As long as we acknowledge its flaws, there’s no issue with appreciating its strengths.

On October 22, you’ll have the chance to own a Special Edition SteelBook Blu-ray of the movie “Ninja Scroll,” thanks to Sentai Filmworks.

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2024-09-24 22:35