The anime scene this summer faced a deluge of releases, with only a select few managing to stand out. Amidst this ocean of new titles, “The Elusive Samurai,” produced by CloverWorks, shines as an unexpected treasure, commanding attention with its unique narrative style and engaging animation. Adapted from Yusei Matsui’s manga, this anime combines historical adventure brilliantly with elements of action and humor, to immerse its audience in a rich tapestry set during Japan’s tumultuous Kamakura period.
At the center of this narrative is Hojo Tokiyuki, a young noble who subverts traditional samurai tropes. Unlike the standard tales of young warriors mastering the art of battle and wielding swords with unmatched prowess, Tokiyuki possesses a decidedly unconventional skill—he excels at running away. This unorthodox hero survives by outmaneuvering his enemies, becoming a fascinating protagonist whose journey offers a novel perspective on heroism in anime.
While the television series “Shōgun” continues to relish its acclaim following an impressive awards streak, one would expect other period dramas to mimic its pathway of strictly adhering to tales of honor and noble quests. However, “The Elusive Samurai” strays boldly from such conventions. The anime seemingly derides traditional expectations, instead sending Tokiyuki on a perpetually evasive path. He is not driven by a thirst for vengeance, nor does he wield a sword of justice; his true prowess lies in his agility and the acute instinct for survival depicted with every sprint and dodge.
Fundamentally an underdog story, the anime defies expectations by glorifying Tokiyuki’s flight rather than fight. The artistry of CloverWorks brings his strategic withdrawals to life with such flair and fluidity that the act of fleeing becomes an enchanting centerpiece akin to traditional battle choreography. The animation portrays Tokiyuki evading chaos on battlefields with nimbleness and grace, transforming the simple notion of running away into an engaging art form.
A standout feature that elevates the anime is the stunning visual design crafted by CloverWorks. Beyond its vibrant color palette and intricate background artistry, the animation plays cleverly with texture and motion. The premiere episodes unfurl with illustrations of deep, contrasting colors; the rich reds, striking blues, and verdant greens practically flow off the screen. Yet, this aesthetic delight is often disrupted by sudden and graphic instances of violence, effectively communicating the dangerous world Tokiyuki inhabits—a place where, despite his speed, there is no eluding the harsh truths of his time.
The anime initiates Tokiyuki’s tale post the ruin of his lineage—the mighty Hojo clan—betrayed and extinguished in a coup.
. Instead of pursuing a classic revenge arc, “The Elusive Samurai” chooses a playful and satirical approach. Tokiyuki emerges not as a vengeful spirit but as an opportunistic, adaptable young man who leverages his quick wit and even quicker feet. He is refreshingly different from the mournful, tragedy-imbibed samurai heroes that dominate this genre, and the narrative’s light-hearted tone is buoyed by a cast of memorable and quirky side characters.
Among these is Yorishige, a dubious priest with foresight and an offbeat sense of humor, assisting Tokiyuki on his journey with eclectic spiritual insights. Accompanying Tokiyuki are the “Elusive Warriors,” a colorful crew of rather eccentric individuals, whose humorous idiosyncrasies add levity to even the most dire of situations.
Despite its comedic elements, “The Elusive Samurai” does not shy from the severe stakes that its historical backdrop commands. The series tactfully weaves moments that reveal the brutal realities of its era—massacres, mutilations, and executions—through its vividly animated lens. Such stark juxtapositions between humor and horror are exemplified from the onset, when Tokiyuki’s idyllic life is shattered by the harrowing slaughter of his family, setting a tone that oscillates between light and macabre with surprising dexterity.
The anime’s innovative use of varying art styles further amplifies these tonal transitions. It shifts from serene, almost ethereal scenes to jagged and intense visual presentations during battles or moments of heightened emotion, particularly evident in episodes like “My Buddha,” which demonstrate a breathtaking merge of form and feeling reminiscent of experimental artistry. These compelling changes push “The Elusive Samurai” beyond standard shounen anime, inching it towards the realm of artistic achievement.
Ultimately, the true brilliance of “The Elusive Samurai” lies in its rich tapestry of past and present commentary. While rooted in the medieval era, Tokiyuki’s journey subtly critiques modern paradigms. His path, characterized by evasion and strategic patience, challenges the entrenched concepts of honor and heroism, making for a narrative as much about survival as it is about self-preservation and timing. This refreshing portrayal constructs Tokiyuki as one of the most intriguing anime protagonists in recent times—a young noble whose talent is running for his life, while harboring the hope of ultimately reclaiming his rightful place.
With its visually captivating first season and nuanced storytelling, “The Elusive Samurai” emerges as a surprise contender for the title of Anime of the Year. Available for streaming on Crunchyroll, this series stakes its claim as a dark horse amid the year’s offerings in animation, creating anticipation for further seasons with its already distinct and innovative presence.
