Since its first release on video over here in the mid-90s, it has been one of Manga Entertainment’s flagship titles, but for me this is my first time watching. To me, it looked like nothing more than a no-brainer action title, Fist of the North Star with swords(not that there would really be anything wrong with that), if you will. However, after watching it I must say I am impressed, beautiful visuals and an oddly entertaining storyline make it a brilliant watch.
Set in Feudal Japan, Ninja Scroll is a fine example of what all Ninja films should be like. It features everyone’s favourite neighborhood Ninja, Jibe, taking on The 8 Devils of Kimon, eight demon ninjas looking to overthrow the rulers of the land. Of course, there is a whole load of subplots and twists going on, but to be honest no one really watched these films for the plot. The action is fluid and exciting, and weaves through the story to create a near perfect blend of fast-paced action and good storytelling.

The film is a real treat to look at, animated by the one and only Mad House animation studio, responsible for such classics as Wicked City, Cyber City Oedo 808 and Perfect Blue. It is gory and violent, but it never gets to the point where the film is obscene just for the sake of it. It is all pulled off very stylishly, so even those only into “higher-brow” anime might get a kick out of it.

The DVD is an example of the way anime DVDs should be- it contains a history on the true myth of Jubei, a couple of 20 minute interviews, the first with the film’s director, the other one with the English voice actors of the main characters, then there’s the character biographies, fleshing out the story. You can see the care taken by Manga to get these extras, and you have to hand it to them, they did pretty well. The DVDs come in separate regular DVD cases in a cardboard slipcase. I liked the general look of the DVDs; they all seemed to reflect the stylish, action-orientated theme of the film. My only real gripe is why package the set on two discs? Each disc has EXACTLY the same menus and extras, so all that has really changed is the screen ratio.

Overall, the film is a good action romp and the DVD is well above average for this type of film. I would say if you do not already own this, then get it as soon as it comes out. One of the better action titles around, and on top of that it’s got a pretty decent dub too.

8/10 – A brilliantly stylish and surreal tale. Great, if you think you can stomach it!

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