Evaluation and impressions of the 10-minute version of "Zenmai Samurai"

The appeal and evaluation of "Zenmai Zamurai [10 min version]"

"Zenmai Zamurai [10 min version]" is an anime series that aired on NHK Educational TV from 2007 to 2009. The story is set in a future Edo called "Karakuri Oedo" where the Edo period has continued unchanged since the Meiji period, and depicts the exploits of Zenmai Zamurai, who has come from the past to spread goodness. Below, we will introduce the appeal and reviews of this work, as well as related information in detail.

Story and worldview

The setting of "Zenmai Zamurai [10 min version]" is a unique future Edo called "Karakuri Oedo". This town is a world where the Edo period continues as it is, and has a unique atmosphere where modern Karakuri technology is fused into it. The Zenmai Zamurai came to this town from the distant past to spread goodness. His mission is to spread goodness to the people of the town, which winds up the spring that sustains his life, and thus extends his life.

Zenmai Zamurai's special move is the "Hisawa Dango Sword," and he never lets even the smallest of evil deeds go unnoticed, instead he upholds justice. Along with his partner Mamemaru, his beloved Riding Hood, and his rival Namezaemon, and other unique characters, he does great things every day at Karakuri Oedo. This work not only depicts the conflict between good and evil, but also themes such as friendship, love, and growth, making it enjoyable for both children and adults.

character

The appeal of "Zenmai Samurai [10 min. version]" is its unique characters. The main character, Zenmai Samurai, is as persistent as a snapping turtle when it comes to evil, and is a pure character whose emotions are immediately reflected in his face and springs. He secretly has feelings for Zukin-chan, and his love for her adds a bittersweet element to the story.

Mamemaru is a small ninja apprentice and Zenmai Samurai's best friend. He has a 3rd grade abacus and 2nd grade caltrop skills, and is also practicing throwing shuriken. Zukin-chan is kind-hearted and reliable, and is Zenmai Samurai's favorite. She always wears a hood to hide her huge, curly afro-like hair.

Namezaemon is a narcissistic character who is always concerned about the shape of his topknot. He also has feelings for Zukin-chan, and is in a love triangle with Zenmai Samurai. The relationships and growth of these characters enrich the story.

Production and staff

"Zenmai Zamurai [10 min. version]" is an original anime work, with a story by m&k (Maruyama Momoko and Kuwamoto Ryotaro). It is directed by Yasumi Tetsuo, with Nonaka Kazumi as chief director, and the script is written by a diverse staff including Ohnogi Hiroshi, Kawahara Yuji, Hojo Chinatsu, Komatsuzaki Yasuhiro, Nishizono Satoru, Ishikawa Tomoko, Yasumi Tetsuo, Okabe Yuko, Yamaguchi Ryota, Kitai Sachiko, Kawabe Minako, Yamada Kaori, Takahashi Kenta, and Yamashita Tomohiro.

Character design and layout check are handled by Noriko Akiho, chief animation director is Tamaki Kobe, 3D digital is Momoko Takeuchi, animation inspection is Kyoko Fujino. Art directors are Yuka Nagai, Sachiko Kigazawa, Toshiaki Marumori, Yumi Matsumiya, color design is Mari Miyashita, color specification inspection is Erika Suzuki, director of photography is Takehiro Sodeyama, editing is Takeshi Seyama, sound director is Tooru Nakano, music is Jun Miyake and SUN.SALT&TIME. Sound production and recording studio is HALF H・P ​​STUDIO, producers are Masaru Yoshizawa and Masuro Ueda, animation production is A-1 Pictures and No Side, production is Aniplex and Shogakukan.

Theme songs and music

The opening theme of "Zenmai Samurai [10 min version]" is "Zenmai Samurai no Uta" (Song of the Zenmai Samurai), with lyrics by m&k, composition and arrangement by Jun Miyake, and singing by CHAKA. The ending theme is "Zenmai na Jinsei" (Life in a Zenmai Style), with lyrics by Jun Miyake and Kyoko Katsunuma, composition and arrangement by Jun Miyake, and singing by Kyoko Katsunuma. These songs are important elements that enhance the atmosphere of the work.

Recognition and Awards

"Zenmai Samurai [10 min. version]" was highly praised for its unique worldview, distinctive characters, and story development that can be enjoyed by children and adults alike. In particular, the theme of spreading goodness and the setting of the spring that supports it left a deep impression on viewers. The scriptwriting was also praised for its ability to fully depict the story within the short 10-minute broadcast time.

This work was not only broadcast on NHK Educational TV, but was also released on DVD and Blu-ray, and was loved by many fans. Furthermore, related works such as "Zamrai Zammai", "Omori! Zenmai Zamurai Zammai", "New Year's Eve Special Zenmai Zamurai" and "Tenkomori! Zenmai Zamurai Special" have been produced, further expanding the world of Zenmai Zamurai.

Recommendations and how to watch

"Zenmai Zamurai [10 min. version]" is highly recommended as an anime that the whole family can enjoy. It is especially recommended for parents and children to watch together, as it contains educational elements to teach children the value of goodness. In addition, it is recommended for anime fans, as it has a deep story and unique characters, despite its short broadcast time.

The most common way to watch it is to buy the DVD or Blu-ray, or use a streaming service. In particular, streaming services allow you to watch the entire series, including related works, all at once, so you can fully enjoy the world of Zenmai Zamurai.

summary

"Zenmai Zamurai [10 min version]" is an anime series with a unique worldview, distinctive characters, and the theme of spreading goodness. It has also been praised for its scriptwriting, which is able to tell the whole story in a short broadcast time, and for its moving music. This work, which depicts the exploits of Zenmai Zamurai, can be enjoyed by both children and adults, so we highly recommend that you give it a watch.