Sword Of The Stranger
Title: Sword Of Stranger
Original title: Stranger: Mukô hadan
IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
Director: Masahiro Andô
Writer: Fumihiko Takayama
Studio: BONES
Stars
- Tomoya Nagase
- Yuri Chinen
- Kôichi Yamadera
Format: Movie
Duration: 1h 43m
Genre: Action, Adventure
Trailer:
Scene :
Synopsis:
During Japan’s Sengoku period, a young orphan named Kotarou and his dog Tobimaru stole from innocent rural people to supplement their livelihood. However, Kotarou is forced to run away when he is pursued by assassins sent by China’s Ming Dynasty for strange reasons unrelated to his petty crimes.
In an isolated temple, they run upon Nanashi, a tough travelling swordsman affected by a violent past. When Kotarou gets attacked and Tobimaru is poisoned, the samurai saves the helpless duo from their pursuers, but he believes there is no need to assist them further. However, when offered an expensive stone in exchange for his services as a bodyguard, Nanashi agrees to serve as Kotaro’s bodyguard in exchange for safe passage. They travel together to a rural Buddhist temple, where a friendly monk awaits.
Meanwhile, the unrelenting pursuers are identified as Ming swordsmen from China. They have a secret motive and are determined to catch Kotaro. As Nanashi protects Kotaro, he is forced to confront his inner demons and reveal his powerful swordsmanship.
Review:
Sword of the Stranger: An amazing display with a heart!
Sword of the Stranger, a 2007 anime film from Studio BONES, is a compelling blend of action, drama, and stunning cinematography. While the plot may not be groundbreaking, the execution is excellent.
The movie shines in its animation:
The fight sequences are particularly memorable. They are fluid and dynamic, capturing the raw strength and violence of swordsmanship. The backgrounds are precise, evoking both the tranquilly of rural Japan and the intimidating beauty of old ruins.
Characters with depth:
Nanashi, the calm swordsman, is an engaging character. His haunting background and reluctance to fight spark an intriguing internal battle. Kotaro, the young kid he shields, is more than just a damsel in distress. Their friendship develops organically, bringing emotional depth to the story.
A Familiar Yet Fulfilling Story:
The plot revolves around a familiar stereotype: a protector defending someone being pursued by unrelenting enemies. However, the execution strengthens it. The mystery surrounding Kotaro and the intentions of his pursuers keep you interested. The themes of loyalty, the weight of violence, and a desire for forgiveness are all portrayed with honesty.
Overall:
Sword of the Stranger is a must-see for fans of samurai action films and wonderfully animated tales. While the plot may be predictable for some, the magnificent sights, well-developed characters, and exciting action moments make for an extremely entertaining experience. This film delves into morality, betrayal, loyalty, and the consequences of a violent history.