Rurouni Kenshin (2012) Review in 2025
Rurouni Kenshin is a live-action adaptation of the popular manga and anime series, set in a fictionalized version of 1878 Japan. The movie follows the story of Himura Kenshin, a former assassin turned wanderer, as he protects the people of Tokyo from various threats.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is suitable for mature teenagers and adults due to some violence and mature themes.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for fans of action, adventure, and drama. It's a visually stunning film with a compelling narrative and well-developed characters. If you enjoyed the manga or anime series, you'll love this live-action adaptation.
Spoiler Alert!
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The movie takes place in 1878 Japan, where Kenshin, a former assassin, has vowed to protect the people of Tokyo from various threats. He becomes embroiled in a conflict between the government and a group of revolutionaries, and must use his skills to protect the innocent and fight for justice.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a clear narrative that explores themes of redemption, justice, and the consequences of violence. The movie does a great job of balancing action and drama, keeping the viewer invested in the characters and their struggles.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with Takeru Satoh delivering a standout performance as Kenshin. The supporting cast is also excellent, with each actor bringing their own unique energy and charisma to their role. The chemistry between the actors is palpable, making the relationships between the characters feel authentic and believable.
characters9.00/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Kenshin being a particularly compelling protagonist. His backstory and motivations are expertly woven into the narrative, making him a relatable and sympathetic character. The supporting cast is also well-done, with each character bringing their own unique personality and depth to the story.
direction9.00/10
The direction is top-notch, with Keishi Ōtomo bringing a clear vision to the project. The pacing is well-balanced, with a good mix of action, drama, and humor. The cinematography is also impressive, with a focus on capturing the beauty and grittiness of 19th-century Japan.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is stunning, with a focus on capturing the beauty and grittiness of 19th-century Japan. The use of lighting, color, and composition is expertly done, creating a visually stunning film that immerses the viewer in the world of Rurouni Kenshin.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Engaging story, well-developed characters, stunning cinematography, and superb acting make Rurouni Kenshin a standout film.
Cons
Some viewers may find the pacing a bit slow in certain sections, and the violence can be intense at times.
Notable Quotes
"A hero's power comes not from his strength, but from his heart."
"The strongest sword is not the one that cuts the deepest, but the one that heals the wounds of the past."
