Blue Eye Samurai

Every now and then, Netflix gets it right and BOY did they get this one right!

Blue Eye Samurai is one of the best animated series I've seen in a long time. The first episode had me hooked and by the third, I was completely invested in the characters, the plot, everything.

It's hilarious, heartbreaking, dark, a little dirty sometimes, gory as heck and just straight up beautiful. It can go from a captivating scene with gorgeous landscapes and delicate emotions being put on display to quick and precise butchery with martial arts and swordsmanship on full display. The main character plays to their strengths when facing skilled opponents and creates advantages when facing overwhelming odds. It's somewhat grounded and not too over the top. Kinda like a samurai John Wick. The animation is truly a pleasure to watch. The fight scenes are just *chefs kiss*

On the surface, it's a classic revenge tale. Some might find that boring and overdone but I kid you not, It's so much more than that.

It's also refreshing to see an animated series of this particular style without a ton of fantasy elements.

It's a must watch for me.

The brilliant animation team, Blue Spirit Studios, based out of Montreal and Paris, is the same group that did "What If?" which was their first foray beyond French cartoons. Their captivating artwork complement a fluid story line with strong character development. Continuing to collaborate with "Heroes" producer, Michael Green, Masi Oka provides timely humor as Ringo. The soundtrack is invigorating, lending a pulse to, at times, predictable action sequences. The comparisons to Kill Bill have been made by some critics, which is spot on since it combines a traditional story with a modern vibe. Over eight tightly packed episodes, the series contains a considerable amount of pacing that allows it to breathe with meaning and purpose. There isn't a better animated series IMHO and is perfect for fans of "Warrior" on MAX. You won't be able to tell how satisfying this show is till you start it.

It's just nice to watch a TV show in 2023 where the writers are not trying to bash you over the head with "THE MESSAGE" and you can in engage with a likeable and believable female protagonist who you want to see succeed. Fantastic animation style, music (with a Japanese version of For Whom The Bell Tolls being something I that I never knew I ever needed!), and the dialogue with a stellar voice cast that all contribute to a great show that I was fully invested in from start to finish. The show does however at times over-rely on it's use of sex scenes, and I'm not prudish, but it does feel a little awkward at times. But still a 10/10 for me , absolutely amazing.

Ever watch a show that's so good you'll binge it just a bit slower so it'll last a bit longer? I did that with Blue Eye Samurai.

The story is brilliant and poignant, the action and animation is great, often looking like art. There are no fillers and the way the story is told is captivating. It's at once raw and tender, brutal and profound.

It's very much a heroes journey story but with plenty of twists to keep the attention of the most jaded people. The voice-acting is top-notch as well and you feel the characters in archs and complexity. The bait and 'will this or that' happen is there aplenty but you'll never really know until it happens.

From now on, it's waiting on season 2 and rewatching it to catch all the nuances. Best show I've seen since Arcane, and I do not say that lightly. Watch it, watch it now!

Great animation! Extremely binge-able with a very interesting premise that I'm not sure I've seen before in a Samurai storyline . This show really makes you care about the characters and is beautifully paced. The writing is smart and I like that the conflict in the story is based more on skill and wit than something like magic powers because it makes it more relatable. It's also nice to recognize some of the voice actors behind the characters. If you're planning on watching this with your kids, I'd say DON'T unless you are ready to have THOSE conversations. Otherwise, get some snacks and binge this over the weekend!