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Rurouni Kenshin Reboot to Stream on Netflix, Reviving a Samurai Legacy Amid Controversy

by admin

Anime centered around samurai, a vital part of Japan’s history, is surprisingly scarce. Although samurai characters, ronin, and their iconic katanas feature prominently in anime, they are often paired with supernatural elements or futuristic technology. However, among the few historical samurai anime, some stand out, and Rurouni Kenshin is undoubtedly one of the best. The classic series, which has captivated fans worldwide, is making its way to a new platform, offering a fresh opportunity for both old and new fans to enjoy.

The Return of Rurouni Kenshin to Streaming

Created by the disgraced author Nobuhiro Watsuki, Rurouni Kenshin takes place during the Meiji era (1868-1912) and tells the story of Hitokiri Battosai, a notorious assassin from the Bakumatsu period who leaves his violent past behind. Renaming himself Kenshin Himura, he embarks on a new life as a wandering swordsman, or ronin.

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The anime has seen two adaptations. The first aired in 1996 and was a major hit with audiences. In 2023, a reboot of the series was released to equally strong praise. It is this newer version that will soon be available for streaming on Netflix.

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The first season of the Rurouni Kenshin reboot will begin streaming on Netflix on February 4, with all 24 episodes released at once. The reboot has been well-received by fans, and the second season is currently ongoing, available for streaming on Crunchyroll. The official plot description reads:

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“In the era known as Bakumatsu, there was an ishin assassin known as Hitokiri Battousai; eleven years later he returned as a wandering swordsman, Himura Kenshin.”

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Rurouni Kenshin’s Enduring Legacy

As one of the best-selling manga series of all time, Rurouni Kenshin holds a special place in the hearts of fans and remains a cornerstone of the anime community. With approximately 72 million copies sold, the series is the 34th best-selling manga, ranking just behind major works like Fairy Tail and Gintama. Alongside ’90s anime classics like Trigun, Sailor Moon, Slam Dunk, and Cowboy Bebop, Rurouni Kenshin stands as one of the defining works of its era.

The original 1997 anime, despite its aging animation, remains a cult classic. Fans continue to revisit the series for its compelling plot, particularly the powerful redemption arc of Kenshin Himura, which has become a hallmark of the story’s enduring appeal.

Controversy Surrounding the Creator

However, Rurouni Kenshin’s legacy is not without significant controversy. In 2017, creator Nobuhiro Watsuki was arrested and charged with possession of child pornography, a crime to which he later confessed. This scandal has cast a shadow over the series, complicating the celebration of its success.

In light of the controversy, voice actor Howard Wang, who voices Kenshin in the anime, made a public statement addressing the issue. Wang expressed his disapproval of Watsuki’s actions and pledged to donate a portion of his earnings from the show to charity. He said, “To address the elephant in the room: Yes, I’m fully aware of the crimes of the author, and I do not condone or support those actions in any way. As such, a portion of all my earnings for Kenshin are being donated to charity.”

Conclusion

Despite the dark cloud hanging over its creator, Rurouni Kenshin continues to resonate with fans thanks to its captivating storytelling, compelling characters, and rich historical backdrop. As it finds a new home on Netflix, the series is poised to introduce a new generation of viewers to the story of Kenshin Himura, the wandering swordsman who seeks redemption from a bloody past. Fans, old and new, will undoubtedly find much to appreciate in this latest chapter of Rurouni Kenshin’s storied legacy.

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