Anime Review: Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan (2023) Episode 1

Rurouni Kenshin

Studio: LIDENFILMS

Genre: Action, Romance

Streaming: Subtitled on Crunchyroll

The Summer 2023 anime season begins with a remake of a classic. The 2023 anime adaptation of Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan makes a strong and nostalgic return with its first episode. Staying true to its source material, this adaptation captures the essence of the original series while adding a modern touch. It’s been over 20 years since most Western fans were exposed to Rurouni Kenshin on Toonami, so this is a series that deserves a lot of care since it means so much to older anime fans. How does this debut of the 24-episode season do?

The episode successfully establishes the chemistry between Kenshin and Kaoru while setting the stage for what’s to come. Viewers learn about Kenshin’s change in philosophy since the days when he was known as Battousai the Manslayer. As Japan moves into the Meiji era, Kenshin seeks a more peaceful life. Kaoru runs a family dojo, but a recent chain of murders under the name of her dojo’s signature style has led to a loss of business and a desire to clear her family’s name. When the two collide due to a misunderstanding, they learn of a sinister conspiracy driven by the dojo’s value in the new era.

Despite its nostalgic appeal, the anime avoids feeling outdated and manages to blend in seamlessly with contemporary shounen anime. The setting, characters, villains, and motivations all feel relevant in today’s anime landscape. The action sequences, though relatively short in this episode, showcase the protagonist’s strength and set the stage for potentially exciting battles in the future.

In terms of production, the animation is solid, capturing the essence of the original artwork while providing a smoother and more polished visual experience. The action scenes flow seamlessly and maintain a sense of coherence. The voice acting in this adaptation is excellent, with the performances of Souma Saitou and Rie Takahashi standing out. Their portrayals bring depth and emotion to the characters that weren’t present in the original anime’s early episodes, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

The opening and ending themes deserve special mention. Both songs, particularly the ending theme performed by Reol, are bangers that enhance the atmosphere of the series. The music adds an extra layer of excitement and anticipation for what’s to come.

The first episode of Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan (2023) successfully captures the spirit of the original series while delivering a fresh and engaging experience. With its nostalgic charm, updated visuals, and superb voice acting, this adaptation holds promise for both longtime fans and newcomers alike. Fans can look forward to reliving the epic journey of Kenshin and discovering if future episodes can deliver the thrilling action that modern anime demands.