Netflix’s new animated series, “Blue Eye Samurai,” stands out as an extraordinary drama and a five-star animation tailored for adults. Set in 17th century Japan, this animation captivates adult audiences with its layered characters and stunning visual style, presenting an action-packed adventure series. At its core is Mizu, a young woman of mixed heritage who challenges the rigid social and gender norms of Japan’s Edo period by disguising herself as a male samurai. Pursuing the four white men secretly residing in Japan, whom she blames for her ostracization due to her mixed heritage, Mizu’s journey represents not only a quest for revenge but also a search for identity conflicting with prevailing cultural norms.
Mizu’s Journey of Discovery
The series delves deep into Mizu’s character, engaging viewers not only in the thrill of the action but also in Mizu’s emotional and psychological evolution. Exploring Mizu’s past through flashbacks, audiences witness not only her struggles as a ‘foreigner’ in the era’s Japan but also gain insights into the contemporary societal issues of that time.
Stellar Creative Team
“Blue Eye Samurai” is penned by Michael Green and Amber Noizumi. Michael Green, known for his work in scripts for films like “Logan,” “Blade Runner 2049,” and “Alien: Covenant,” brings his expertise to this animation. Produced under Netflix Animations, the series is crafted by the French Blue Spirit studio, with Jane Wu at the helm. Wu, recognized for her work in Marvel Studios’ projects, brings her experience in staging exciting and complex battle scenes, evident in the captivating sequences of “Blue Eye Samurai.”
Visual Brilliance and Artistry
The series adopts a visual style that blends traditional 2D animation with 3D models, creating a fluidity akin to a moving painting. Each scene is meticulously detailed, drawing inspiration from Japanese watercolor paintings for coloring and incorporating anime-influenced character designs. The voice acting, featuring A-list Hollywood talents like George Takei, Brenda Song, and Masi Oka, complements the flawless use of music, which intertwines Eastern and Western influences to reflect the characters’ emotional states.
Cinematic References and Artful Direction
The series pays homage to legendary directors like Akira Kurosawa and Sergio Leone, reminiscent of Quentin Tarantino‘s “Kill Bill Vol. 1,” catering to cinephiles with its pastiche entertainment. The action scenes, reminiscent of films like “Lady Snowblood” and “Once Upon A Time in the West,” are filled with references, adding depth and excitement to the narrative.
Detailed Art Direction and Spectacular Action
The meticulous art direction authentically portrays Japan’s historical era, evident in the detailed depiction of food, clothing, and researched kimono patterns from the Edo period. Each episode presents intricately designed cities and breathtaking landscapes, while the action sequences, a standout feature, showcase precise and bloody choreography that elevates the series’ maximalist action epic style.
In conclusion, “Blue Eye Samurai” masterfully blends traditional Japanese art influences with modern animation techniques, paying homage to classic cinema while showcasing exceptional detail and creativity in its visuals and action sequences. Its narrative offers a visually striking and emotionally resonant experience through a unique blend of historical and fantastical elements.
