Sword of the Stranger
Details
- Directed by: Masahiro Andō
- Produced by: Masahiko Minami
- Screenplay by: Fumihiko Takayama
- Story by: Bones
- Music by: Naoki Satō
- Cinematography: Yohei Miyahara
- Edited by: Hiroaki Itabe
- Production company: Bones
- Distributed by: Shochiku
- Release date: September 29, 2007
- Running time: 102 minutes
- Country: Japan
- Language: Japanese, Mandarin
Synopsis
From MyAnimeList.net:In the Sengoku period of Japan, a young orphan named Kotarou and his dog Tobimaru steal from unsuspecting villagers in order to make ends meet. However, Kotarou is forced to remain on the run when he finds himself being hunted down by assassins sent by China's Ming Dynasty for mysterious reasons not involving his petty crimes.
Fortunately, the duo run into Nanashi, a ronin who has taken refuge in a small temple, when Kotarou is attacked and Tobimaru poisoned. Although the samurai saves the helpless pair from their pursuers, he feels that there is no need to help them further; but when offered a gem in exchange for his services as a bodyguard, he reluctantly accepts Kotarou's offer of employment—just until Tobimaru is healed and the two reach their destination. As the three set out on a perilous journey, it soon becomes evident that their path is riddled with danger, as the Ming Dynasty has now sent a terrifying swordsman after them to capture Kotarou and fulfill a certain prophecy.
Story
The basic premise of the film itself is not that complicated or intricate. You can see where the direction of the film at the very beginning and how the relationship between the main characters will result. What I want to stress about in this film is how the action sequences are meticulously designed and choreographed that they all fit the narrative. There are numerous elements of surprise even at the start of the film in a form of gruesome fighting scenes. It contains lots of savage and brutal killings, so it's a good thing to point out that you may need to be old enough to watch it. With that being said, I have to give two thumbs to how it brings out all the fun of watching action movie.However, the plot is minimal and it doesn't really give a sense of progression. The problems as usual escalate quickly but there is no real conflict in a way that really drives the plot. Even at the beginning, one can see the ending clearly with no twists along the line. The fighting scenes make it worthwhile to watch.
Visual
Sword of the Stranger is produced by Bones, the very same one who brings you Darker than Black, Cowboy Bebop movie, and Eureka Seven. You can see all of their intrinsic visual style in the fight scenes. A fluid motion packed with above average visual effect yet realistic enough that you can enjoy it without having to cringe every time the weapons clash.Drawing inspirations from Japan in the feudal period, the visual background is astounding. Taking you to the samurai era of Japan, it uses 3D CG in the least intrusive way and amplifies the beauty of 2D hand-drawn art.
Audio
If I have to complain, it's for the voice acting, not the soundtrack, particularly in scenes where the characters speak Chinese. Trust me, I know what real Chinese sounds like and the voice actors are not really trying to sound natural. It feels forced, probably because they don't have enough time to practice their intonation. The Chinese Empire envoys are also strangely fluent in Japanese. Although they require translator in the first scene, it seems weird that they can speak Japanese in the climax.But, the soundtrack is quite relaxing. It is peaceful, giving you a sense of belonging. It is also epic and intimidating that I feel the struggle of the soldiers. It fits the scenes perfectly and blends in with the surrounding that you barely feel you are listening to a recording.
Characters
A number of stock characters are used and employed by the filmmaker. You have the so-called stranger No-Name, who actually has a name but renounced it (no surprise), you have the sulky kid who acts like that just because he is lonely, and you have a foreign antagonist who actually comes to Japan to seek worthy adversaries. Oh, I forgot to mention that they have a dog!The characters may not be as original as you think, but they do exhibit a peculiar kind of interaction. It's quite entertaining the bond development of No-Name and the kid. By the way, it's also amusing to watch the dog whining and playing. I love doge!