Rurouni Kenshin: The Final

Samurai seeks redemption in epic battle finale

Watch on Netflix
About Rurouni Kenshin: The Final

Released: 2021

Platform: Netflix

Rating: TV-MA

Run time: 2h 19m

Cast
Takeru Satoh, Emi Takei, Mackenyu, Munetaka Aoki, Yu Aoi, Yusuke Iseya, Tao Tsuchiya, Kazuki Kitamura, Kasumi Arimura, Yosuke Eguchi

About Rurouni Kenshin: The Final

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About

Rurouni Kenshin: The Final is a Japanese action film released in 2021, based on the popular manga and anime series Rurouni Kenshin. The film serves as the conclusion to the live-action film trilogy that began with Rurouni Kenshin (2012) and Rurouni Kenshin: Kyoto Inferno (2014). Directed by Keishi Otomo, the film features Takeru Satoh reprising his role as the main protagonist, Kenshin Himura.

The story of Rurouni Kenshin: The Final follows Kenshin Himura as he confronts his past and faces a new threat. Set during the early Meiji period in Japan, Kenshin must confront his former mentor, Katsura Kogoro, who has become a dangerous enemy seeking revenge. As a legendary assassin known as "Battosai the Manslayer," Kenshin must use his skills for good and protect those he cares about.

Making / Production

Rurouni Kenshin: The Final was produced by Warner Bros. Pictures and directed by Keishi Otomo, who was also the director of the previous two films. The film was based on the manga and anime series written by Nobuhiro Watsuki. The production team worked closely with Watsuki to ensure that the film stayed true to the original source material.

The action sequences in the film were meticulously choreographed, blending traditional sword-fighting techniques with modern martial arts. The production team made use of practical effects and stunts to create realistic and intense battle scenes. The film also features stunning cinematography, capturing the beauty of the Meiji period setting.

Actors

  • Takeru Satoh as Kenshin Himura - Satoh delivers a powerful performance, bringing depth and emotion to the character of Kenshin Himura. He expertly portrays both the gentle, pacifist side of Kenshin and the fierce warrior when necessary.
  • Emi Takei as Kaoru Kamiya - Takei portrays Kaoru Kamiya, Kenshin's love interest and a skilled swordswoman. She brings beauty and strength to the character, capturing Kaoru's determination to protect and support Kenshin.
  • Mackenyu as Enishi Yukishiro - Mackenyu plays the main antagonist, Enishi Yukishiro. He effectively portrays Enishi's complex motivations and his desire for vengeance against Kenshin.
  • Tao Tsuchiya as Misao Makimachi - Tsuchiya plays Misao Makimachi, a young ninja who becomes an ally to Kenshin. She brings youthful energy and agility to the character.
  • Yusuke Iseya as Aoshi Shinomori - Iseya returns to his role as Aoshi Shinomori, a skilled swordsman and former enemy of Kenshin. He brings intensity and determination to the character.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

  • Rurouni Kenshin: The Final is based on the "Jinchu" arc of the manga series, which was not previously adapted in the anime or live-action adaptations.
  • The film was originally scheduled to be released in 2020 but was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Keishi Otomo, the director of the film, previously worked on the live-action adaptations of the Rurouni Kenshin series, ensuring consistency and faithfulness to the source material.

Awards

Rurouni Kenshin: The Final has received critical acclaim and has been recognized with several awards:

  • Best Action Choreography - 2021 Japan Action Awards
  • Best Supporting Actress (Emi Takei) - 2021 Nikkan Sports Film Awards
  • Nomination for Best Film - 2021 Japan Academy Film Prize

Quotes

  • "The scar of a past never vanishes... but that doesn't mean the future can't change." - Kenshin Himura
  • "Sometimes, a wounded soul can heal other wounded souls." - Kenshin Himura
  • "I will protect what's important to me. That's all I can do." - Kaoru Kamiya

Music

The film features an atmospheric and thrilling musical score composed by Naoki Sato. The music enhances the action and emotional scenes, creating a powerful impact on the audience.

Soundtrack

The soundtrack of Rurouni Kenshin: The Final includes the following songs:

  • "Broken by the Scream" - Performer: RAWLIFE
  • "The Final" - Performer: Coldrain
  • "Ignore" - Performer: UVERworld
  • "3gatsu 9ka" - Performer: Aimyon
  • "Under the Blue Sink" - Performer: Alexandros
  • "Rockbell" - Performer: Maoujou-kai