This summer’s anime lineup presented viewers with an overwhelming array of choices, with only a select few managing to captivate and leave a lasting impression. Among the rare gems that managed to shine through the noise is The Elusive Samurai. It is an anime adaptation of Yusei Matsui’s manga, brought to life by CloverWorks, which effortlessly blends historical adventure with action and, surprisingly, humor. Set against the backdrop of Japan’s chaotic Kamakura period, the story chronicles the experiences of Hojo Tokiyuki, a young nobleman whose most remarkable skill lies not in combat but in the art of retreating.
In a period when FX’s Shōgun continues to bask in the limelight following its triumphant run at the Emmy Awards, one might expect anime series to emulate its tried-and-true narrative centered around honor, duty, and ambition. Yet, The Elusive Samurai defies these expectations with a refreshing twist. Its hero, Tokiyuki, does not fit the traditional image of a katana-wielding samurai prodigy destined for greatness. Instead, his gift lies in evasion, subverting classical samurai tropes with his remarkable ability to flee in style — a talent that transforms him into one of anime’s most unconventional heroes.
At its core, The Elusive Samurai is an underdog story, but it shakes convention with Tokiyuki’s unique abilities. Though it may seem an odd fit within the honor-bound world of feudal Japan, CloverWorks’ exceptional animation translates Tokiyuki’s flight into an art form. His fluid movements through the chaos of battlefields turn evasion into an engaging dance, providing a unique spectacle that equals any sword fight in its allure.
One of the greatest triumphs of The Elusive Samurai is its astounding visual storytelling, crafted brilliantly by CloverWorks. The animation is nothing short of breathtaking. Beyond the vibrant color palette and intricate backgrounds, the series excels in its manipulation of texture and motion. Each episode unfolds like a beautifully illustrated painting, filled with lush greens, deep blues, and rich reds that dance across the screen, only to be interrupted by stark moments of sudden brutality. This startling contrast not only highlights the precariousness of Tokiyuki’s world but also the dangerous reality lurking beneath its vibrant facade.
The series begins with Tokiyuki as the sole survivor of the Hojo clan, victims of a treacherous coup. However, instead of treading down the Shakespearean path of vengeance, the anime opts for a lighter, subversive tone. Tokiyuki becomes a clever, evasive protagonist who relies on wit and speed rather than brute force, a delightful departure from the traditional tragic heroes of samurai lore.
. This tone is supported by a cast of quirky characters, each adding a unique charm to the narrative.
There is Yorishige, the prophetic priest with questionable counseling methods (voiced by a distinguished VA known for iconic roles like Gojo Satoru), guiding Tokiyuki with spiritual wisdom tinged with dark humor. Add to this the “Elusive Warriors” — an eclectic group of peculiar misfits who support Tokiyuki and infuse even the darkest scenarios with levity.
Yet, the humor does not undermine the significance of The Elusive Samurai’s narrative. The anime does not shy away from the harsh realities of its historical backdrop. The graphic depictions of political machinations, massacres, and executions crash into the animation’s vivid imagery, emphasizing the grim stakes Tokiyuki faces. The series seamlessly bridges moments of light-heartedness with macabre undertones, crafting an emotionally dynamic experience.
An audacious artistic choice in The Elusive Samurai is how its animation style adapts to shifts in tone. At times, it evokes a dreamlike beauty, particularly during Tokiyuki’s reflective moments. At others, the visuals become erratically angular, mirroring the chaos of battle and emotional tumult. The ninth episode, “My Buddha,” stands out as a visual tour de force with its surreal transformations, exemplifying bold, experimental storytelling that sets the series apart from conventional anime narratives.
In addition to its visual prowess, The Elusive Samurai’s brilliance lies in the tension it creates between traditional values and contemporary themes. Though set in medieval Japan, it subtly comments on modern ideas, with Tokiyuki’s journey challenging ingrained notions of honor. His narrative is one of survival — physical, emotional, and psychological. It explores the wisdom of choosing battles wisely and reclaiming agency in a world that seems against you, making Tokiyuki a fascinating protagonist.
Ultimately, there’s something undeniably captivating about Tokiyuki — a character who navigates life by running, all while clinging to the hope of reclaiming his rightful place. As Tokiyuki races through his adventures, The Elusive Samurai speeds toward critical acclaim and the prospect of being a major contender in the 2024 anime scene. With its audacious first season, it’s poised to etch its legacy among the year’s most innovative anime offerings.
The Elusive Samurai is available for streaming on Crunchyroll.
