Ninja Scroll DVD: Review By The First Avenger: JohnnyBlaze

Let me start off by saying that Ninja scroll is not your typical Anime. Where as most of us "westerners" see anime as just silly Japanese cartoons starring over the top Japanese male actors (why do they always sound pissed off?) and doe eyed over proportioned heroines with bust sizes that would make Pamela Anderson blush. Ninja flips the script on its head and takes you on an action packed slash fest that will leave you blood soaked and begging for more!

The story begins as we meet our charismatic young hero Jubie Kibagami (based on the actual folk hero of feudal Japan)A sword for hire but with a moral code of honor as we see him dispatch a rival group of mercenaries after He helped save a small village from being swindled by the mercs. He makes short work of the mercs as he spends less effort fending off his would be attackers then finishing his rice cake.

Later we are introduced to the Koga clan and its beautiful member Kagero who after spending a lifetime as a food tester has made her body become poisonous to all who attempt to make love to her. (Think Herpes but allot quicker and deadlier) In an era where most consider sex the ultimate value of a woman Kagero's self worth suffers but helps fuel her worth as a ninja warrior for her clan.

The Koga ninja guards are sent to investigate a plague in a nearby village only to meet and viciously be ripped apart by one of the eight devils of Kimon Tessai. Only Kagero is survived after the massacre at the hands of the demon Tessai only to face a worse fate as Tessai attempts to rape her, Saved only by the perfectly timed arrival of Jubie.

Later still we meet a government spy in the shape of Dakuan a little old man with amazing powers (think Mr. Miyaigi with superpowers and your on the right track)As he makes a deal with young Jubie in exchange for Jubie's help, will give him the antidote to the poison that is slowly killing him. they are joined by Kagero and set out together to unravel the mystery of the devils of Kimon and there leader Gemma an old enemy from Jubie's past long thought dead at the hands of Jubie himself!

Aside from the rollercoaster plot that could rival anything made in Hollywood; Scroll also sets itself apart by having a tough skilled female character who although finds herself in danger is in no way a defenseless damsel. Kagero can kick ass with the best of them and is almost an equal in swordsmanship to Jubie himself.

But what really gives Scroll its flare is in character design. Each ninja or devil has unique powers or personality that blend together beautifully making every fight scene new and exciting in each bout.

Among all the sword fights and blood there is also a love story that blooms between Jubie and Kagero that is well paced an enjoyable to watch thanks to a fantastic voice cast and clever writing.

Bottom line: this is a classic that deserves its place among Akira and Ghost in a shell. The movie is hailed by fans as one of the greatest ninja animes out and with good reason. While definitely not one for the kids this movie is Adults only as there is more sex and violence in this then a Tommy Lee doc*mentary. A great Anime for anime lovers and a good starting point for movie goers taking there first step into the sometimes bizarre yet intriguing world of Manga. Nuff said.

The Good: as mentioned one of the best animes out period with fluid animation that holds up even today. Jubie Kibagami is also one of the coolest and likable characters in Anime, often copied, never equaled.

The Bad: A bit on the long side for those who are used to 30 minute anime sessions.

The Ugly: The Massacre of Tessai on the Koga ninja. Especially the last guy! Look away if you have a weak stomach!