BLUE EYE SAMURAI (2023) Netflix Series Honest Review

[@UnleashTheGhouls]

A few commenters have mentioned me glazing over Mizu snapping the girl's neck. Making this comment to cover this! I admittedly am human and glanced over the core context here, as I watched all 8 episodes of the show in one sitting and misinterpreted this scene! I was mostly caught off guard by Mizu holding out her hand to protect the girl, giving her hope, before killing her instantly. Even under orders and feeling the remorse, I still found this a shocking moment! I have made an adjustment to the video edit as the point I made wasn't an accurate reflection of Mizu or the series in hindsight! All the best - Connor

[@rastifan7863]

I was taken aback as well, but this series is not for kiddies. It is made for us adults. And it was refreshing to see writers taking chances with the characters and not play it safe like Disney. Mizu certainly isn't Rey who does everything right, everything good and every thing perfect every time. I despise one dimensional characters like that. Mizu is human with the flaws that comes with it.

[@WakerOfTheSky]

IM ONLY HUMAN AFTER ALL

[@lalasecretly]

I still think that she killed her although the girl did not wanted to die! The girl thought Mizu was protecting her but Mizu wanted informations and lied afterwards to Madame Kaji that the girl understood which is not true - that was Mizu being an Okaji

[@mustardjelly1813]

​@@lalasecretly yeah I agree. The girl does not seem to understand Madame Kaji's 'protection' would mean merciful death at the moment. She is portrayed as scared instead of welcoming merciful death. As I interpreted it, Madame Kaji did not understand her step-daughter fully, and Mizu just thought sticking to the plan was merciful for the girl anyway. When Madame Kaji wanted to assure if her step-daughter really wanted death, Mizu seemed to lie to Madame Kaji.

[@freebobafett]

@@lalasecretly what the girl wanted didn't really matter. If the girl was rescued, Boss Hamata (I think that was his name), and his gang of 1000 wolverines would know exactly who did it and they would come to Ming Na Wen's brothel and kill everyone. As it turned out, they figured it out anyway and still tried to do that, but it wasn't guaranteed. Dying was the only escape for the girl, and so it was provided.

[@mariafoivi3599]

She killed the armed boy because previously she let the unarmed kid go away and it betrayed her, in a way it shows that because of experience she becomes progressively "tougher", or at least thats how I saw it

[@M4rt1nX]

Was about to write that.

[@sofaqueen007]

I don’t remember the armed boy. What ep was it ?

[@Homosumhumaninilamealienumputo]

@@sofaqueen007 the episode with the thousand clan in the brothel house

[@M4rt1nX]

@@sofaqueen007 Episode 5 at 38:45

[@sofaqueen007]

@@M4rt1nX thanks !

[@claudiafernandes1150]

Mizu and Akemi are a masterclass on how to write strong female leads

[@linoleumbonaparte5798]

Love mizu. Akemis bratty entitlement pissed me off

[@claudiafernandes1150]

@@linoleumbonaparte5798 honestly thats part of why i liked her. It makes sense to how she was raised, and gets her in more problems than its worth. She is a brat but you can see room for growth, she has potential. I think that's also why I liked Taigen from the beginning, at first he is so cocky and prideful, seeing him and Mizu bond was great

[@Thenewboidahlia]

Akemi did end up growing on me especially in the last episode, I really hope they do her character justice in the next season

[@applepeel1662]

So true. Incredibly written characters

[@keifapeterson7490]

I enjoyed seeing akemi's character changed in the end. #iwantgreatness

[@676kirbster]

One of the details of the series that suddenly surprised me was understanding why Mizu always wore a scarf. At first just thought it was fashion. Then realized it was Mizu hiding that she didn't have an Adam's Apple. Yes, women have them. But they're not as prominent as they are on men.

[@TheWonder_OfU]

I saw the scarf as acting as sort of an extra binder to hide the fact she’s a woman, but good catch.

[@jazzamvs]

Ohhhh I’ve rewatched the show four times now thinking I was an expert and you just proved me wrong this is so good to know

[@UnleashTheGhouls]

PHWAOR that is a damn good observation!!!! What a spot!

[@HailToTheMeep]

🤯

[@isabelbenito6818]

Thanks I see it but I did not pay attention. Thanks for let me know the meaning.

[@rastifan7863]

This show came out of nowhere and blew me away. And THIS is how you write strong female leads. Mizu is such a treasure chamber of characterization done right.

[@michaeldyer6378]

100... Disney please take note.

[@domoetker3967]

Disney only made strong African Women's!@@michaeldyer6378

[@mdd4296]

@@michaeldyer6378 Disney could have taken notes from their own history anytime they want. Modern Disney simply dont want to write a good strong female lead.

[@lorenzomizushal3980]

Strong female lead is being like a man? 😂😂😂😂😂

[@boxtears]

This is NOT how you write a strong female character. They've been writing these girlboss characters forever now, it's so annoying.

[@ChrisPage68]

Ringo was eager to please because he was shown no love by his Dad, due to misplaced shame at having an "imperfect" son. He was also told he was useless. In reality, he was brave, decent and loyal. He was also resourceful.

[@yseultCH]

Right? Incredibly so. And at the same time, he holds the viewer's wish for Mizu being more than she is. Nobler, morally justified and just like Ringo, we are handed back our expectations and just like him, we are there when she does the thing we expect her to do and saved Taigen... it's so well done.

[@ChrisPage68]

@@yseultCH I hope season two shows him teaching Mizu what she is capable of, but currently chooses not to.

[@chrisbullock6477]

Yeah, but lets be honest you could of created any character to be in place of hm.

[@ChrisPage68]

@@chrisbullock6477 But why not him. We Disabled people are badly represented in the media in general. Our stories are important too.

[@dukegunthar]

Useful.

[@eshel9886]

I wanna talk about the puppet show concept alittle bit: What was fascinating about that part of the episode to me was how I was led to believe that the samurai was mizu and the kabuki spirit was her husband. Then as her backstory progresses the story gets flipped around where mizu becomes the kabuki spirit and the gentleman was the samurai. I don’t know the significant meaning to that but it was fricken incredible either way!

[@JennCanada1991]

Yeah, I'm glad someone mentioned this! She ended up being both characters in the puppet show. That episode was a season highlight for me. Poor Mizu.

[@gurimisenpai2358]

It showed how it her path of hatred would eventually force her other side to destroy her.

[@thestarheater973]

I depicted that scene in a way like this manner. It wasto showcase her transformation. She followed the "Phoenix" path to her vengeance but then, she found peace. She then got brutally betrayed by both her close ones, which caused the "Phoenix" to die but instead gave rise to an equally brutal demon, The Onryo. Before we see that she asked questions first and did not quarrel, but instead got injured. After her transformation, she doesn't hesitate to attack first then ask questions, like in episode 1.

[@samxjuniorjunior153]

I watched that episode twice in a row! Because it was so good!!!

[@olveaustlid4383]

That was exactly my thoughts as I watched that episode. Awesome series!

[@brahmanspleroma3792]

This show is like if you took Arcane, Ninja Scroll, and Kill Bill and rolled them into one original series. This is that, and it is fucking incredible. I was so engrossed in the story, and impressed by the adult narrative that really outdoes most shows.

[@dragonstouch1042]

Heck, Battle Without Honor or Humanity plays in one of the episodes

[@boxtears]

This show has nothing on Arcane, characters were actually written well in Arcane.

[@brahmanspleroma3792]

@@boxtears Subjective opinion is subjective. I absolutely loved Arcane and am excited for the second season, but I am not saying one is better than the other. In my opinion, the characters in BES were a masterclass in development. There is nuance that does not often shine through in other stories. Arcane had incredible writing for the characters, but this is in another level. IMO

[@boxtears]

@@brahmanspleroma3792 You're not saying it but I am. Arcane is so much better, it's not even close. That's just my opinion but I'm right.

[@brahmanspleroma3792]

@@boxtears XD sure buddy, sure....

[@sandraleung7218]

In spite of how outstanding this series is (its writing, worldbuilding, homage to Japanese history and culture, art, the sheer dedication to this project by the production team... etc), I can't see much discussion online :( I am so worried that this amazing series won't get renewed due to the underappreciation 🥺

[@UnleashTheGhouls]

This comment thread has been super appreciative and reviews across the board have been positive! I'm sure if we band together it'll live to fight another day, and hopefully not get the Mindhunter treatment

[@TokenTrailblazerz]

its 5th in shows on netflix and is the most liked show on the platform, i think it will be fine

[@alexfedolak1908]

Everyone should watch it twice then to keep the streams up

[@lilacalosa]

⁠@@TokenTrailblazerzyup solid 9.1 on IMDB and 100% vs 95% non rotten tomatoes currently front page and 3rd on popular tv show list and it made it in less than a week after release, RT can be brutal and so just having such positive reviews is getting plenty attention 💪🏻💪🏻🔥🔥👏🏻

[@kratosmuscle1163]

It's quite fresh give it some time I just started watching it today as I didn't know anything about this show before

[@Ocelot4R]

Thank u for mentioning how she struggles through most of her encounters rather than just being OP. It made me relate to the character more and I actually find it more badass to see the protagonist push through great difficulty with determination and will power.

[@motyovszkimiklos7538]

yes that was very cool up until episode 6 sadly

[@prometheus5405]

Truly reminds me of The Bride's journey in Kill Bill. One time Uma Thurman's character was buried alive.

[@xtiniweenie]

I was so pissed she let Fowler live. I just know she will regret the choice down the line. Also, I wonder if Teigen will find his way to London. The enemy to lover vibe is so strong with those two. Also, Akemi is going to be a beast! The evolution of her character was perfect. Can't wait for season two.

[@MrEmpireBuilder0000]

Same here. I even predict that Fowler gets away on season2. Just wait for it. The writers love this villain too much I guess. And she aun't even gonna take precautions like say, sever his fingers so he can't use guns. It will be stupid which is why I cannot watch s2 anymore. There's a reason we all liked Kill Bill 1. Oren Ishii was our rewaed for holding on.

[@gentlechaos5911]

@@MrEmpireBuilder0000 Literally my thought, why didnt she just chop off his arms lol. But I guess with medicine the way it was back then, fowler would probably just have died. Maybe she didn't want to risk him bleeding out/dying of infection. My prediction is (if the show gets more seasons) that Fowler is going to be the end boss. She's gonna kill the other 2 white dudes and he's gonna be last guy standing.

[@jer103]

Fowler has more information and knowledge of London, and of the 2 other white men Mizu is after. Mizu chooses that Fowler is better useful alive then dead. Also, even in the 16th century, London was a big city. Mizu is unfamiliar with the town and culture. It helps to have someone with personal experience being there. It's a better strategy.

@@gentlechaos5911 You might be right about the actual historical state of medicine back then. But in the show, the named characters recover from all kinds of injuries without any problems. Btw, my prediction is that Fowler will show a few more redeeming qualities first. Not sure if he will be the end boss. (Though the more redeeming qualities they show, the more I expect him to be the end boss. Mostly just because that would increase the dramatic tension.)

[@gentlechaos5911]

@ I just hope they dont try to make him a good guy. The dude with all the skeletons of his own dead babies in the cellar can't really be redeemed...

[@WobblesandBean]

It makes sense she'd get rid of innocent people, she knows anyone who sees her eyes will likely report her or treat her just like anyone else has. Mercy had always gotten her nearly killed, so she can't afford to show any.

[@UnleashTheGhouls]

Excellent point Wobbles (and Bean of course!)

[@yanicmb]

agreed and that point was proven when she spared that little boy and he went and told the bad guys exactly where she was

[@elongatedmanforever1252]

If it would of gotten her killed?? How come it never happened With rango or others?? Even Taigen when he was younger.

[@TheLpsRebecca]

⁠​⁠@@elongatedmanforever1252because Ringo has shown up for her time and time again, so has Taigen. Hell, even Akemi showed redeemable qualities towards Mizu and she hates her guts rn.

[@jeffreytan2948]

The twists and turns of this show is amazing. Once you think you had the story down and that you know all the characters motivations, the show throws you in for another loop. Love it.

[@athenacinca8657]

The honorifics and with the " Last Samurai" vibe was truly amazing. Despite her vengence attitude the essence of love and attraction had penetrated her being.

[@AuranJ]

Love the review, but the use of her killing the innocent girl to show Mizu’s lack of mercy was really off to me. She was ordered to kill that girl as a display of mercy because of the horrible situation she’s in, and even cried afterwards (which I believe is the only time in the show)

[@julio1148]

She cried when they show the betrayal/ when she turnes into the Onryo

[@BrianDonnelly68]

She's still a real character in Feudal Japan. As much as the story & characters is somewhat Westernized, the understanding of death, honor and shame were real operative things in that world. That was an honorable death for that girl given her social station/situation. That wasn't mercy. It was tragic, but honorable.

[@glassbubblewrap7721]

I was gonna mention this too. It wasn't for no reason that she killed her. She was told to, it was merciful, and she cried after. I think he might not have remembered that she was told to do it?

[@UnleashTheGhouls]

Thank you for this comment Rockboy! I have made a pinned comment regarding this topic as I've had quite a few comments regarding it!

[@ChrisPage68]

She was savung her from being abused.

[@agentsculder2451]

Stunning show! I do hope more folks start talking about it so we get season 2. One of the best things I've watched this year.

[@UnleashTheGhouls]

The idea of Mizu and Fowler tearing it up in London is tantalising hahaha

[@pete7354]

Bro you need to watch more shows

[@afonsoalmeida4975]

@@pete7354 What is the best for you ?

[@EclecticLover]

Not to mention the color symbolism is amazing in this show with the blue being in mizu's eyes, sword, clothes and her name meaning water and the whole episode where she bathes in cold water. Its so amazing not just visually but symbolically too!

[@WealthEngineering]

This is without a doubt one of the best animation I've ever seen. The first show i've saw where every shot was a frame painting was Demon Slayer. But this one got it beat. and when it comes to story telling action, fighting, this one resemble sooo much more like real movie than a shonen. THe amount of history, cultural reference and beauty shown through this raw sexual and violent experience was a piece of ART... Just no other way to describe it. ART...

[@UnleashTheGhouls]

Fabulous Honest Review right here!

[@exoqqen]

my two favourite episodes were 4 and 5. The moment Mizu snapped the mute and deaf girls head i winced, it was such a atrong moment. I was FURIOUS as to why the writers would let the tiger claws find out regardless, but then i understood. Mizu was so struck by the deed she had done, she didnt kill the kid that had seen her. It showed that she was still human, vulnerable. And in episode five, when she had that dance/sparring with her husband, i loved how she was finally alive and blossoming in the moment. When she then, later revealed she'd transform her sword into the spearlike weapon that was taught to her by her husband by removing her SHACKLES i was mindblown. Amazing show, can not stop thinking about it.

[@TheFMHatter1986]

I really didn't know ANYTHING about this show before the trailer dropped and I watched it and I was blown away by the chemistry between Mizu and Taigan from enemies to potential lovers? like a R-rated Mulan (granted this Japan and not China) I think Netflix's greatest show they've geen-lit and I want to see more (granted I love Big Mouth but that's another show all together)

[@Alizeea]

This is one of Netflix's best shows. Looks gorgeous, moves wonderfully, sounds excellent and the writing is top notch. Real, vibrant and credible characters. Absolutely obsessed with it, I'm urging everyone to watch it.

[@AtheistDD]

Yeah the movement is way more fluent than castlevanias. And the coreo of the fight scenes are beautifull.

[@gregorygreenwood-nimmo4954]

Season 2 is going to be critical for Blue Eye Samurai - Mizu will go from a country with almost no non-Japanese among its population, having had minimal contact with White people and the only ones she has met being less than ethical traders, to travelling to a major European city where she will be confronted with the reality of an entire culture of mostly White people where she will find poverty, marginalisation, and suffering in a wide spectrum of forms, and generally will be forced to acknowledge that these 'blue eyed demons', (who will of course not be universally blue eyed, and she will also meet far more than just White people in a city that was extremely cosmopolitan by the standards of the 1600s) far from being inhuman monsters, are just people who have their own travails and struggles to survive. How she reacts to that realisation will be interesting to see indeed.

[@676kirbster]

Yet she'll be going to England in the 1600's. She'll find that despite having blue eyes, she'll be hated just because she's half Japanese. It also makes wonder how they'll do the language? Will Mizu suddenly know English? Or will she have learned to speak it from listening to Fowler?

[@gregorygreenwood-nimmo4954]

@@676kirbster She will doubtless face prejudice; the exact same prejudice she faced in Japan, just from a mirrored perspective, further demonstrating that people are people - for better and for worse - wherever you go. The language issue will be interesting. The writers will either gloss over it for the sake of pacing, or Mizu will need to learn an infamously complex and difficult to master language well enough to understand and be understood at some point in the series, and since the only English speaker she knows is Fowler, that will put her in a difficult position of having to rely in some measure on a man she hates.

[@1800REDGENESIS]

​@@gregorygreenwood-nimmo4954i didn't think of that. Boy that would have sucked if she killed him having no way to learn English getting to the other two men.

[@ceridwenaeradwr8105]

Also - I want to know if and how we're still going to get any involvement from the really solid supporting cast that's been established - Taigen, Akemi and Ringo. I LOVE them all and really hope we get a lot more of them in S2 and beyond, but... well, I doubt they're going to be following Mizu to London? Akemi's definitely staying solidly in Japan for the forseeable future, what with her ambitions and being married to the Shogun's son. Taigen maybe and Ringo DEFINITELY would have gone with Mizu given the chance, but I don't think they even know where she's gone. I guess we'll most likely get some separate parallel storytelling going on for a bit, but dammit I want the gang together again at some point.

[@676kirbster]

@@ceridwenaeradwr8105 Well, one of the things that 'could' happen. During this time period, ambassadors were sent around the world. The most well know was the Iwakura Mission of 1871-1973 which visited London. This is just a guess. I think most likely it'll spilt the storyline between London and Japan.

[@taylorbrown2996]

I really like the ideas throughout that reference souls and how they are affected by events. such as the day where all souls are cleansed and everyone is reborn again. This ties on to the torment of Mizu as she has had her soul torn apart so many times throughout her life. Losing family, a failed marriage and killing the girl were all times that stood out to me as soul shattering. I believe Mizu is slowly realising throughout the show that her soul is damned as she's slowly realising through meeting friends along the way how she can piece it back together but the pain from previous events leave her in agony to do so. This is why I really appreciated the soul rebirth at the end of the show as it has so many heavy connotations as she did the last episode without her weapon and a strong character change was becoming apparent I cannot wait to see Mizu in full swing if this is her at her (soul speaking) worst.

[@UnleashTheGhouls]

Brilliant Honest Review Taylor! Thank you for sharing it!

[@zarafanai5925]

the action was well done... but mann!!! the storytelling was on another level.. when she killed the mute girl u feel her heartache... she tried to make the mission go THIS way but the mission was dragging her THAT way.. it broke her.. it was subtle.. but it was shown.. the show was wonderfully written.. and i hope they get season 2

[@StorytellerStudios]

What an amazing series. Should be required viewing for all screenwriters. (Especially Disney's) The storyline is rich, layered and takes unexpected turns, without trying to "subvert our expectations". The plot is unpredictable in a very natural way. Character development is top notch. WOW- what a show!

[@domoetker3967]

Disney's leaders are Afro-Americans, and there is 0,000000 Chance that Asian Animes will come the next 10 years. They change every lore history females into Afro-American females, and you really think, they will do this stuff and stick 100% to the lore and culture? You are kidding.

[@Nottiy]

Yes! There's so much i didn't see coming but it didn't feel like it came out of no where either. Nothing felt cheap or forced.

[@UnleashTheGhouls]

Summed it up great for me! Class comment, friend!

[@thisrichbastard.809]

This and Miles Morales’ Spider-Man.

[@abudgie6909]

Totally agree. The show is great. I only have one real problem with it. There's a historical inaccuracy: it's set in 1657, but the Japanese don't have guns. In real life they started using guns more than a hundred years earlier and they were important to a lot of big battles at the end of the 1500s. It's true that guns were used less in the 1600s, but I find it odd that the shogun wouldn't have any at all. I can ignore that for the sake of the plot, but it still annoys me. Other than that it's basically perfect.

[@ilshaguides]

This show became added to a list of truly remarkable works that I feel people should take note of (other series being Arcane, Scavengers Reign, & Pantheon). One of the aspects that I loved most about Blue Eye Samurai is that Mizu _is_ vulnerable. Yes, she's a badass, but she is by no means invincible. But beyond her physical capabilities is her emotional state. Where most shows give you a revenge story with a fairly one-dimensional protagonist whose character is based on some event in their life, Mizu's is not. It is fully built over a series of events, and even then, it doesn't completely _define_ her, because she constantly fights against the way she has been shaped. She doesn't fully accept it. One of my favorite examples of this is when we see her life with her husband. Not only that she had one, but that she truly loved him. And even with his betrayal, she did not follow the trope of never trusting again as we see the development of a relationship with Taigen - not just a quiet rivalry, but moments wherein he crosses her mind in an emotional way. She is not just attracted to him physically, but she is developing real feelings for him over time. You have already pointed out the beauty of the artwork and animation, and I could only repeat that here. But what is truly exceptional about this show is how they break the normalized expectations of the character molds, and give them true depth with their motivations. They aren't one-dimensional. They have reasons that are, within themselves, often conflicting. I do not like to throw around words that have become abused - thus lost the weight of their meaning - but this show truly is a work of art. The visuals, the sounds, the writing, the flow of the story, the way it's pieced together and slowly blooms in layers... truly a work of art.

[@burneden]

Its also important to look at the parallels between Mizu and Fowler. I think its an important scene when Fowler attends the audience with the Shogun's sons. He shows up with a gift of gold. Fowler calls it out, no bullshit, no metaphor, this is how the shogun views him. As money. I think it really stings Fowler as he puts it, he should be sitting at the table with the Lords, yet he's not given a seat. Maybe next year. This whole plot was HIS revenge story. Keep in mind, Mizu isn't seeking revenge because her father abandoned her. She is seeking revenge because how she is treated, as a Onryu in Japan by the Japanese people. It gets better when he points out the blood sacrifice of Edo burning. Mizu started the fire killing thousands, much like the outcome of Fowlers coup would have led to. Season 2 will interesting to watch unfold.

[@NelsonStJames]

I’m always happy to see shows where the protagonist is at core good, but not so good that they act in ways that go against self-preservation, or jeopardize their ultimate goals. To me this is what a mature story writing and characterization is all about and we see very little of it in western animation. The premise of this show had the “anti-woke” brigade sharpening their pitchforks, but I hope everybody gives this show a watch, even if they think it’s to give them fodder for their negative vlogs, because if they’re being honest, there is little to take issue with with this series. It’s incredibly well-done.

[@faultycommodity]

This was highly recommended by our D&D dungeon master - started watching it after our game and I DID NOT STOP. Truly, what a time to be alive!

[@JoshLange3D]

Couldn't agree more. I loved how they somehow balanced Mizu from being a full-on Mary Sue with someone who took countless brutal hits, physically and emotionally. I also liked how the childhood bully became a sympathetic character with believable tension between them. It would have been great if the Irish villain were a bit more three dimensional but in general you simply can't gush enough about this incredible series. I have full faith in this creative team going forward.

[@mcmayhem9624]

Netflix has a 10/10 with this one. The storytelling, characters, and animation deserve awards.

[@biancabiavati8195]

Thank you for reviewing this!! I’m so in love with this show I can’t wait to hear more people talk about it!!

[@UnleashTheGhouls]

I've not been this excited to see a second season of a show in a very long time!

[@ireallycant4416]

Yea it triggered my observation I didn’t know I have

[@jonmcfarland3832]

Was very pleasantly surprised by this series. Ended up bingeing it all weekend. Great storytelling. Great animation.

[@anni83337]

I did it in 1 day... Story itself was gravitating for me being clingy upon history, Buddha, social norms of old times... Great watch.. And artistry displayed throughout the series, little resonance with kill-bill, and how beatifully secret of mizo being a women unfold throughout the series

[@ryananderson5779]

The art, the score, and character development in this series was epic! The creators did their homework with this series. I binged this show last weekend and I couldn't put it down, it was just that good. I can't wait for the second season.

[@teddy2glocks85]

my god, The Tale of the Ronin and the Bride, episode 5, was some of the best television ive ever watched. the way the separate stories intertwine behind the backdrop of the kabuki theater was sublime. The episodes before and after, just as good in so many ways. episode 4 with all the fantastic scenes from Akemi and the Madame (the voice actress that played the madame was absolute top tier,) and episode 6 with the bombastic thrill ride of the castle climb. Im in awe of this show and can easily say without a doubt its high on my list of animes and just animeted projects in general. Everyone involved this series should be immensely proud. And like others have said, when you write female leads with this kind of depth, even the staunchest haters got nothinnnnnnn. Mizu and Akemi were BRILLIANT

[@Markrspooner]

100 % agree, I didn’t know much about the series before starting but was totally blown away by it. Truly one of the best modern animation series I have seen.

[@potatoesdeterre]

I really wish that they made Taigen’s character development (him becoming an ally of Mizu) more then just because he was a simple brained humain who would do anything to “restore his honour”. I feel like they could’ve touched more on how he regretted the way he treated her aside from that one scene where he’s in their old town. Maybe I’m being too picky and wished the arc was as incredible as another honour obsessed character from another show

[@koenvandiepen7651]

I think Taigen worked well for me. I mean it think from the start it shows that his honor as far as Mizu is conserned is kinda fake. Afther he starts out verry dishonerable as a kid. Fights her for selfish reasons at the start as well as beeing easily manipulated into that fight by his masters. Then he goes afther her for his own selfish wish to get revenge. Afther all like Azumi points out to him his honour is not really tainted to begin whit. Then afther he meets Mizu and is both impressed byr her drive and frightend by how much of a monster you become when you are driven by revenge he becomes more honourable. I think he in a way is going to be the example that Mizu needs to follow to become less of a monster.

[@ceridwenaeradwr8105]

Eh, I think he pretty clearly does regret the way he used to treat her. It's not explicit in the text, but there's definitely scenes (especially in ep 7 after they've escaped the castle and are recovering at the Swordmaster's place) where he clearly has a look of shame on his face whenever Mizu (or something else) reminds him of their interactions as children.

[@xtiniweenie]

I get why you feel that way. I think just hinting at Teigen's regret was purposeful; he has a lot of room to grow in season two. We know he doesn't want the fame and status he was boasting about when he was engaged to marry Akemi. Akemi leaving him behind on the bridge must have left him feeling adrift. I also found Teigen and Mizu's interactions so funny, hopefully season two expands on that as well.

[@mischr13]

It's not bc he's some simple brained human obsessed with honor tho. they show you how the only options of upward mobility is becoming a samurai and how desperate he is to hold onto that status, not wanting to the lower class that he came from. there are parallels between how both he and Akemi are stuck with shitty "options" that the structure of society has imposed on them

[@nawwafhusein6702]

I need to mention that mizu is a very complicated character with realistic flaws and are very human. Not some wood plank emotionless character that typically makes a "strong"female character. She struggles, got beaten, she's vulnerable at times and even fell in love with men. It shows that human emotion is what makes us relate to one another.

[@nanivogel4453]

You nailed the review!!! This was an absolute master piece of a show!! Can’t wait for season 2…

[@UnleashTheGhouls]

Thank you for the kind comment!

[@angrymegamind5139]

My wife and I started watching this yesterday afternoon and finished the whole season at 01:00 this morning. This has got to be one of the best shows I’ve ever watched. Everything about this show is perfect, the story, the characters and the fight scenes are just amazing. On top of this, the art of the landscapes and scenery are breathtaking.

[@M4rt1nX]

I loved the show. Watched it over the weekend after surprisingly finding the first episode on KZbin. I'm happy that it gets reviewed so it gains more attention. I've been recommending it to everyone I know. I really had a hard time watching through episode six. I think I paused six times or so before I could finish it. Akemi is my second favorite character, what an arc she had!!

[@maikbaumann1250]

*how to write a strong women* + even in the fighting scence she kills with speed, finesse and skill not brute force. more, brute force is shown as her "weakness". thats how you do it

[@masquinyo]

I agree, when seeing the fights I never felt that she was op, she had to come up with some intricate ways of killing her opponents.

[@michaeldyer6378]

I agree with this review 100% best looking anime since Arcane. I thought Arcane was f..king beautiful. Still do, visually hard to beat. As for this well I'm so glad you brought up Sifu. It so reminiscent of that game's graphical style. I binged the sh!t of of this.. And I know I'm going to watch it again. Its that good. Awesome review dude. *Subscribed*

[@UnleashTheGhouls]

Thank you for your awesome comment and kind words Michael!

[@puckkrz01]

I seriously can’t wait for the second season!!! I know it’ll probably be a few years away, but it is worth it if another masterpiece shall be created!! I also implore all viewers to join the Blue Eye Samurai Reddit!!❤❤

[@Nottiy]

Great review! I'm obsessed with this show. Everything is just so good. I saw the scene where she killed the deaf mute girl as a bit of a mercy. Especially when you think of the theme of the limited roads for women. I don't think she could think of a way to save that girl if she wanted to without attracting attention ( which ended up happening anyway).I expected her to kill her so i wasn't surprised. I did gasp though

[@freebobafett]

Agree completely. Although the boss and his wolverine army came anyway, it wasn't a certainty, but if she had rescued the girl, it would have been. I think it also reinforced just how dedicated to revenge she was in that moment. She wanted info on how to reach Fowler. She really didn't care what it took to get it, only that she got it.

[@scottmeek]

Spectacular! One of the best things I've seen since Arcane, and it made me almost forget about Afro Samurai.

[@IndefiniteMark]

TLDR: It was a masterpeice, visually... acoustically and the storytelling was capitvating. Whichever studio made this needs to be acknowledged and make more shows like this one. Would love any recommendation for similar but different storyline shows.

[@AgentMoray]

Invincible is a great show.

[@IndefiniteMark]

@@AgentMoray thanks I'll check it out!

[@gurimisenpai2358]

Arcane.

[@monstermillz]

It’s like “kill bill” meets “samurai jack” meets “ninja scroll” ❤❤❤❤❤ one of my favorite shows

[@kennymac1346]

Nice description. Very apt. I might steal that

[@cozmikbuddahbeats1480]

The animation is so vividly fresh and story telling very good.

[@DABIDTWIGII]

Blown away by this show. From bottom to top it’s something completely original yet give respect to previous anime. Please continue talking about this show. Cant wait for season 2

[@christypassy]

This show was hands down the BEST animated series I have watched in a veeeeeeeryyy long time! I absolutely devoured each episode was invested in every frame. I absolutely need a second season.

[@ynat2198]

Everyone who is watching this and has not watched the show yet needs to go and watch it now ! What a beautiful animation piece, many of the action and sword scenes were done in real time be prior to being animated so they could be more fluid (the choreographer worked on avengers battle of ny scenes). Please go show it love you won't regret it and we can get a second season 😅

[@stanislavschaefer3233]

People should take the opportunity to watch shows like Blue Eye Samurai. My wife was the type of person who did understand why some adults watch Anime. I introduced her to Arcane and instantly fell in love with the animated series genre. I cannot wait to binge-watch Blue Eye Samurai with her.

[@Mi-Jung_Kim-tq2bl]

Of all shows i have seen this is the Best series and best written character of all time in my opinion

[@medianvideos]

My lord I loved this series. It was such a great surprise. Amazing characterisation with actual real motives and complexities. Incredible.

[@epochhp8899]

such a good show - the writing, the animation and the fact that you don't know whats going to happen next and episode 5 blew me away with the writing and cinematography - how they switched from the puppets to real life and how we think mizu is the ronin at the start ad then she is comparable to the bride and then how it gives us insight on how cold and conflicted she is due to her being betrayed and outcasted as well as seamlessly flowing to introducing the shogun and akemi being married off to his son . AMAZING

[@machinegod3000]

Oh Boy, i would dream to have a Telltale/Soulslike spinoff game out of it!

[@UnleashTheGhouls]

I went back to play Sekiro for a little bit just to feel like I'm KINDA in the Blue Eye Samurai world hahaha

[@Q_Tard]

Best original thing I have seen in 10 years. Episode 5... there are just no words.

[@freebobafett]

Yeah. Episode 5 was the most amazing episode in a completely amazing show. I thought the episode was great throughout, but the end, with the revelation that the princess, who she had just unceremoniously handed over to her father's troops, was the one telling the story...oh man...(*chef's kiss).

[@tonybaloni5022]

@@freebobafettquick question, was her storyline of being a married woman actually happen in her life?? Or is it just visions/what if scenario??

[@freebobafett]

@@tonybaloni5022 I never thought of it as anything other than a legit flashback, especially since it ended so poorly, putting her back on the path of revenge, fueled by her new found disappointment. Also, it set up the weapon she would use in the next episode when she was facing an army all by herself. She learned how to use it, or at least that she should learn how to use it in case of being so absolutely outnumbered, from her husband (he said it was the best weapon when facing multiple opponents). It was sad when things started going well for them, because it was obviously going to end poorly. Either way, the episode was an absolute masterpiece in a 1st season filled with them.

[@tonybaloni5022]

@@freebobafett oh my gosh that’s wild to piece together, thank you for explaining!!

[@freebobafett]

@@tonybaloni5022 thanks, but it was the whole point of the episode. What's really nice about this show is that every flashback immediately reveals why it was important immediately after it's over. The first flashback with sword father, for instance, sets up why her sword is so bad ass as well as her connection to the one dude who called her a dog as a kid. If you watch the show again, pay careful attention to each flashback scene and then what parts of it are referenced immediately afterward. So many shows have flashback scenes that don't need to be there, but each one in this series serves a specific purpose and is needed to either develop the character or to explain a plot point or to just move the story forward (which is interesting, since they're doing it by going backward in time).. it's refreshing.

[@MrTway88]

My only issue with the ending is that Mizu left for London without getting a newly made sword after the first one broke.

[@Dutchman-2002]

Honestly im actually happy she didn't get it, so she will have to use more weapons , truly a female john wick

[@R52-e7q]

​@@Dutchman-2002"truly a female John Wick" - hopefully not, as that franchise declined into utterly hollow OTT action.

[@alexiaNBC]

The show is great but does have several inaccuracies. Japan did isolate itself from foreign influence but trade was still permitted in the city of Nagasaki (mostly to the Dutch since they respected Japan's isolationism). They also had tons of firearms primarily tanegashima muskets they created by reverse engineering European weapons and used them extensively in their armies. The only issue was that they weren't as popular as bows and arrows which still had longer ranges and a slight rainstorm rendered any gunpowder useless in battle. Despite those hiccups, it was still an awesome series!

[@midnight6994]

Yeah this is a very fictional version of history and I find it really beautiful! The palace Fowler is confined is is very western in style with the pillars and vaulted ceiling and large glass windows with the traditional Tenshu style blend that won't exactly be realistic in the era given how something like that is incredibly foreign and possible take more than a decade to build but I found it all really beautiful regardless!

[@tephixia]

Im so glad the show is getting praised and im excited for season two

[@pidginenglish]

stunning show and it really gets you to be invested in the stakes and question right and wrong. there are plenty of strong female characters in era where women were MEANT to be weak and docile and its not even cringe to watch them be girlbosses because they're believable. the strengths of these female characters are portrayed beyond mizu's physical agility and battle prowess but also through akemi's wittiness and downright cunning. they both exemplify what strong women are and highlight that there are multiple paths to power and taking control of your life/narrative. absolute W show. 10/10. cant wait for season two.

[@applepeel1662]

This was probably one of the best animated shows I've ever seen It's up there with Love Death Robots for me

[@ireallycant4416]

It’s a masterpiece we need season 2

[@stephenandrew6087]

IMO it's the best thing of this nature that Netflix has put out since the OG Arcane. I thought this was incredibly done, beautiful to watch, funny in spots, and very engaging. +/- with binging is you can hurry up and see an entire season in a weekend if you choose to do so but then find yourself having to wait 9mos+ to get a continuation. All in all, this was a VERY high A for me.

[@daniellewillis2767]

I watched a few episodes...really stellar animation, kinda slow going, but the beauty makes me want to give it a chance..

[@freebobafett]

It speeds up considerable for episodes 4-8. Just wait for it. TOTALLY worth it

[@daniellewillis2767]

@@freebobafett I figured that because I cheated and watched a few random minutes of later episodes and....well sir, you had me at 🐙. Once question: How do they deal with the creature's beak in so sensitive an area 🤔

[@freebobafett]

@@daniellewillis2767 beak? I'm not sure what you're talking about unless you saw the scene in the whore House with Fowler. If you haven't, you'll laugh as you see it and think of this. Episode 5 is SOOOO GOOD. It is honestly the best episode of TV I've seen in over a decade, at least. The end isn't shocking or anything, but when you see how it ties into episode 4, it's just...wow, because the rest of the episode was already great, and then they give you that ending. Oh man...I don't wanna spoil it, but after you watch those two in a row...oh man. They better make a season 2 or I will fucking rage.

[@igshpritzsay5243]

Crazy good. For me it felt like a great mix between The Hunt/vinland saga/ vagabond/kingdom and old boy. Heavy on kingdom and vagabond.

[@Baytuh]

Finished watching Blue Eye Samurai and holy crap what a fantastic show. Seeing great character development in a revenge tale with beautiful art and animation was awesome to see, plus John Wick levels of action. If your a fan of Afro Samurai or Samurai Champloo you'll love this. From Blue Eye Samurai and Pluto to stuff like Castlevaina and Castlevaina Nocturne, Arcane, Dota Dragons Blood, Blood of Zeus, Violet Evergarden, My Happy Marriage and much more. Netflix Has pulled out all of the stops when it comes to their anime/animated stuff and i love it. here's hoping for a season 2.

[@arnoldmojados399]

This is Netflix best thing they've ever done

[@t33__]

Seriously

[@OldTexasRed]

I really like how the show doesn't shy away from Mizu's own flaws and... sometimes unjustified brutality. This is also the first time I've ever seen the real historical social status of women in 16th-17th century Japan shown in such accuracy.

[@Gouki4130]

Majestic show, so excited for season 2.

[@seamusmcshizweak]

“For whom the bell tolls” as she looks up at the castle gave me chills it was so good.

[@kayvankoie5414]

@unleashtheGhouls your review was spot on. I'm with you all of the way. This show was a perfectly executed ride and I will most definitely be watching it again while waiting for another season. This show was just amazing.

[@UnleashTheGhouls]

Thank you very much Kayvan!

[@anthonyharris483]

Her wanting revenge so much had engulfed her changing her into a merciless killing machine. It is interesting to see how bad experiences over the course of time made her the person she is. Great character developments in show looking forward to seeing more

[@shineshadow]

I loved the show. The only minor complaint I have is how sometimes she ignores her wounds completely right after getting them and only when it is convienient for the Story she needs time to heal. But thats a classic action trope

[@ΝίκοςΠαπαγιάννης-φ4φ]

Yeah, also the fact that in some cases she is much stronger than other male characters which doesn't make sense rly. I mean, not trying to offend women, but males biologically are stronger. I can accept it when she is brawling with a random man but not with soldiers. In any case, not a huge deal.

[@gurimisenpai2358]

​@@ΝίκοςΠαπαγιάννης-φ4φI didn't like the strenght inconsistencies is my main issue, and all the wound shrugging, but tbh thats not really a specific issue with the movie. Its a pretty common occurrence in any action writing. People often forgo the consequences of injuries and how fast they heal.

[@ΝίκοςΠαπαγιάννης-φ4φ]

@@gurimisenpai2358 yeah, that's why i didn't even mind those things. In general i rly liked the series and I'm glad they didn't make it a woke thing again.

[@1800REDGENESIS]

Yeah i liked the show so much that the injury inconsistencies didnt bother me much. Probably the claw wound she got which then she shrugged off by killing the rest of the clawmen but other than that, its still a kick ass show.

[@joshuasgameplays9850]

@@ΝίκοςΠαπαγιάννης-φ4φ Aside from blade locking, which is probably be explained by leverage or whatever, I’m pretty sure the only particularly impressive feat of strength she displays in opposition to men is the door in episode 5, so I don’t think it’s that big of a deal. Besides, she is constantly running around and fighting while wearing weights on all her limbs (and possibly is possibly a supernatural being born of rage), so she’s probably at the absolute peak of a woman’s physical ability.

[@marcktanguy8931]

So cool to have animated some shots on this show, and so happy to see people love it. Great team Blue Spirit and Netflix 👏 and Nice video !!!

[@UnleashTheGhouls]

Thank you for your work!

[@Markrspooner]

I just finished episode 6 and was sorry to see Akemi exit. The addition of the entitled Princess I felt added another aspect to the story.

[@alangray6961]

The action is flawless. I see nods to lots of other genres and series here. The character development is excellent. I found the princess to be compelling. She displayed an intellect to survive in a royal house that was reminiscent of many characters from Game of Thrones. Likewise Madame Kaji as a matriarch from the cities underbelly. I thought that Fowler was a top drawer antagonist and glad to see he survived. Season 2 could be great, but would be interested to see how it pans out with Mizu in London and other major characters in Japan. Star Treks George Takei put in a great turn as the princess' guardian Seki, and I could listen to words of wisdom from the sword smith all day long. I have a few gripes though. I found Ringo to be a bit too 'Jar Jar Binks' for me. I was a bit underwhelmed by Taigon. Also, I felt Mizu was a bit too bullet proof. I know she took serious hits and injuries, but when a protagonist goes up against such overwhleming odds in fight sequences and I know there will be no real consequence I feel a bit taken out of the story. I hate it when I see inept badies waiting in line for their turn to be chopped up by the hero. There was too much of it here. Arcane got a better balance of this IMO. A great show though, and looking forward to the second series. Can you image what the creators of shows like this or Arcane could have done in the Star Wars universe rather than the shi*e by numbers Disney have produced.

[@1800REDGENESIS]

I got kind of used to it as the show went on. Figured it was here determination and all, except for the when she spent half an episode limping due to her claw wound when suddenly she took down alot of the highly trained man in the building. There were other instances, but i got used to it.

[@JaYoeNation]

At what point will she get the meteor katana we are all waiting for?

[@sophiaisabelle027]

We appreciate your reviews. Keep working hard.

[@UnleashTheGhouls]

Thank you for your constant support Sophia!

[@nhanvu1654]

Hollywood needs to take some notes from this show on how to write strong female leads

[@urazoflaz9453]

animated goat, great characters all around and amazing female characters other productions can learn a lesson or two. phenomenal

[@chijaruable]

That episode opening with For Whom The Bells Tolls…I couldn’t believe my ears. I’m getting goosebumps just thinking about it. It was like being gifted a surprise present

[@thomaschristopherwhite9043]

They put the first episode for free on YT and then it just led me down the path of this beatiful show. So from a show I knew nothing about, didn't see any marketing for to now I'm sitting here waiting for the next season to a show I didn't even knew existed until a week ago.

[@lite1776]

I’m just here to give the review it’s 9/10 undeniably

[@smokeshivgaming9150]

When you mention the gorgeous visuals, the one scene that popped in my head was opening the underground gate with the moon in the background. And then you show it! Great minds! 😅

[@UnleashTheGhouls]

Think alike!

[@supervillainJ]

Wait so shes an actual protagonist!? I may need tonwatch

[@cwengel22]

This show, Arcane, Legend of Vox Machina, and Castlevania are easily the 4 best current animated shows right now, imho.

[@Toronto-Brad]

Just finished watching it, I was sick today so I did a binge and it was very good. 😊

[@applepeel1662]

Same!!! I was sick throughout and watched the entire show in a day

[@UnleashTheGhouls]

Glad you enjoyed it Brad, and hope you're feeling better now!

[@Talk-Hub]

episode 5, my gf cried and I shed a tear, enough said, if you can make me invested enough in a character to actually shed a tear for what she went through, I'm sold

[@jazzbrew68]

Best series I've watched this year. Incredible animation, story and characters.

[@calinstan3403]

Just started it and it have been the best pilot episode I saw this year. Already hooked to binge this

[@thierrymarcellus9082]

Every word in this review is true. I’m subscribing 😎

[@UnleashTheGhouls]

Thank you very much Thierry!

[@MSawsomenezz123]

Brenda song playing princess Akemi is amazing! The cast is just another great thing about the show 🤌🏼

[@AARONANCE]

This is a perfect review. Well done, good sir

[@UnleashTheGhouls]

Thank you for your kind comment!

[@Echo1Vyr]

Absolute masterclass in story pacing, character dev, sound, music...brilliant season. Can't wait for season 2.

[@anticlimactic165]

Love this series. I finished the entire season on 1 sitting

[@djdoc06]

Most gorgeous looking animation of its kind I’ve ever seen. Easily. So much of that stuff made me think of Kurosawa.

[@daniellewillis2767]

The only series as beautiful as this is the superb Mononoke. It's wonderful to see gorgeous 2D (augmented with 3D,yes, but it's got a true 2D aesthetic) animation getting it's due.

[@mwardell36]

Totally agree..with everything you reviewed..what a treat to watch this series...can't say anymore than you have .. bring on the next ..peace love and art x

[@Houtont]

I'm honestly surprised it came out as well as it did. Most netflix original series are kind of bleh if not terrible.