Review of "The Legend of Kenshiro: Fist of the North Star ZERO": A fusion of legendary martial arts and a new story

The appeal and evaluation of "The Legend of the True Savior: Fist of the North Star ZERO Kenshiro Den"

"Fist of the North Star ZERO: Kenshiro's Legend" was released in theaters on October 4, 2008 and is considered the final chapter of the Fist of the North Star series. This work is a completely original story not found in the original manga, and depicts the events that took place after Kenshiro was defeated by Shin and had Yuria taken from him, up until he met Lin and Bat. Below, we will take a closer look at the appeal and reviews of this work.

Story and Characters

The story begins with Kenshiro, who was injured after being defeated by Shin, being rescued by the Yaman family. However, he is immediately captured by the slave trader Guruma and taken to Gesso City, which is ruled by General Shiska. Gesso City is under attack by an army led by Jugai, and the residents are forced to fight as soldiers with their families taken hostage. Kenshiro attempts to assassinate Shiska to save the residents, but fails as he is unable to use his true power due to his injuries. Meanwhile, Shin and Jugai's master Fugen, who is held captive in the same cell, advises Kenshiro to escape Gesso City for the sake of future generations, but Kenshiro cannot abandon the Yaman family and the residents of the city and does not listen to Fugen's advice. In the end, the Jugai army takes Gesso City and Kenshiro is crucified.

This work depicts the process of Kenshiro learning the meaning of his destiny and sorrow as the successor of the Hokuto Shinken, and growing into a true successor. Original characters such as Shin's master Fugen, his fellow student Jugai, and Dan, who helped Kenshiro, appear and add depth to the story. Fugen in particular plays an important role in pointing out Kenshiro's naivety and encouraging him to take action for the sake of future generations.

Cast and crew

The film's cast includes a star-studded cast of voice actors, including Abe Hiroshi as Kenshiro, Ishida Yuriko as Yuria, and Paku Romi as Dan. Additionally, voice actors familiar to fans of the original work, such as Kirimoto Takuya as Shin and Otsuka Norio as Ryuken, are also participating. The film is directed by Hirano Toshiki, character designer Sato Masaki, and composer Kajiura Yuki, bringing together a top-notch team of staff members. Kajiura Yuki's music in particular is an important element in enhancing the tension and melancholy of the story.

Visuals and Music

Visually, the film is characterised by high-quality animation by Tokyo Movie and TMS Entertainment. Kenshiro's battle scenes and the depiction of Gesso City faithfully reproduce the worldview of the original work, while also providing a sense of freshness as an original story. In particular, the depiction of Kenshiro's techniques, such as the Hokuto Hyakuretsu Ken and Tenpa Katsusatsu, are powerful and worth watching.

In terms of music, Yuki Kajiura's soundtrack will liven up the story. The theme song "One Hundred Years of Solitude" is by GARNET CROW, and the lyrics and melody symbolize Kenshiro's loneliness and fighting spirit. This song was created with a deep understanding of the theme of the story, and has the power to stir the emotions of the viewer.

Evaluation and Impressions

For fans of the original work, "Fist of the North Star ZERO: Kenshiro-den" allows them to see Kenshiro's growth from a new perspective, and is an enjoyable original story. In particular, Kenshiro's attitude of trying to save the residents despite his injuries, and the inner growth he shows through his conversation with Fugen, deeply move viewers. The high-quality production by the stellar cast and staff is also something to be praised.

However, some fans have criticized the settings and character treatment that differ from the original. In particular, some feel that the roles of Shin and Jugai are significantly different from the original, and that Kenshiro's actions are different from the image in the original. Nevertheless, this work is a new chapter in the Fist of the North Star series and is loved by many viewers.

Related works and recommendations

"Fist of the North Star ZERO: Kenshiro-den" is deeply connected to other works in the series. In particular, "Fist of the North Star: Raoh-den: Chapter of Martyrdom", "Fist of the North Star: Yuria-den", "Fist of the North Star: Raoh-den: Chapter of Fierce Battle", and "Fist of the North Star: Toki-den" can be viewed together with "Fist of the North Star: Toki-den" to gain a deeper understanding of the world of Fist of the North Star. These works depict the story from the perspective of each character, bringing out the appeal of the entire series to the fullest.

Here are some reasons why I recommend this work:

• A deep story depicting Kenshiro's growth and inner conflict
• High-quality production with a stellar cast and crew
• An original story that fans of the original can enjoy from a new perspective
• A moving performance with music by Yuki Kajiura and a theme song by GARNET CROW
• Deeper understanding when viewed alongside the entire series

"The Legend of Kenshiro: Fist of the North Star ZERO" is a work that can be recommended not only to Fist of the North Star fans, but to anyone who loves action and drama. Please experience the story of Kenshiro's struggle and growth at the theater.