Afro Samurai

Studio Gonzo  2007

 5-episodes

 Funimation Entertainment

Music score : RZA from the rap group Wu-Tang Clan

Creator: Takashi Okazaki

Voice:  Afro and  Ninja Ninja, Samuel L. Jackson

Justice,Ron Perlman


Based on the manga written and illustrated by Takashi Okazaki, Afro Samurai was originally published in the self-funded Nou Nou Hau dōjinshi magazine. 


Afro's story: The tale centers around a set of numbered headbands. The person to hold the number one band is said to be the most skilled fighter and also to possess God like powers. As the story begins, Afro's father is that man. 

The only fighter who can challenge him, is the wielder of the number two head band, however the unfortunate number two can be confronted by any other fighter eager to prove his worth.

Initially we see a very young Afro walking with his father while holding his hand...enter the number two, a gun slinging, sword wielding samurai by the name of Justice. It suffices to say that Justice becomes number one, and that, that single instance puts Afro on a path of vengeance from which he can not escape, no matter the cost.

Accompanied by his ever so entertaining sidekick Ninja Ninja, he battles through both foe....and friend for the ultimate prize, finding and defeating the number one and avenging his father...

The way I see it: This is one of the most visually striking, artistically rendered anime series I have ever viewed, and believe me....I have seen A LOT of anime ;) The use of light and shadow and the effective minimal use of color is simply captivating. It literally takes on a life of it's own...have I gushed enough??

The young characters of Afro's memories are beautiful, innocent, light and pure... yet as the story returns to his present life they become ugly, tainted and dark. To the point of being disturbing, a reflection of what life has made of them.

                                                            Justice

The bad, the bad, and the ugly:I think they overdid it a bit on the T&A, although, in all honesty, I think it added to the whole degenerate, grungy vibe ;o 

Also, be warned, if you're offended by sex scenes this is not the anime for you...lol

Love it or Leave it: Love it! This series fits an entire storyline from beginning to end into five episodes and does it effortlessly, completely and satisfyingly. Even if you just watch it for it's artistic merit alone, I would highly recommend it :D

                                                         Ninja Ninja