"Basilisk: The Ouka Ninja Scrolls" Review: A masterpiece anime that vividly depicts the world of ninjas

Basilisk: The Ouka Ninja Scroll - Abysmal Love and Fateful Battle

The TV anime series "Basilisk: Ouka Ninja Scrolls," which aired in 2018, is based on a novel by Masaki Yamada and tells an epic tale that begins with the struggle for the succession of the three Shoguns during the Keicho era. The massacres waged by the Koga and Iga ninjas portray a beautiful yet cruel world against the backdrop of a drama of love and destiny. This work succeeds in depicting the world of the ninja from a new perspective while retaining the profound themes of the original work.

story

The struggle for the succession of the three Shoguns during the Keicho era escalated into a bloody battle between the Koga and Iga ninjas, with many lives lost. Among them, it is said that a man and a woman who tried to live for love also perished beautifully, even though their lives were fleeting. However, a legend has been passed down that Hattori Hanzo was given life by his stepson, Hibiki Hachiro, leaving behind a keepsake, as two petals were given life. Koga Hachiro and Iga Hibiki, children destined to be born with eyes that resemble those of their father and mother, spin a new story in the peaceful era of the Kan'ei era.

In an era when ninjas have become obsolete, the Koga and Iga people try to make their foundations firm through "blood" and "power," so they burden Hachiro and Hibiki with the fate of swearing to be true brother and sister. Despite being at the mercy of fate, Hachiro wavers, while Hibiki chooses to live for love. At the end of the lives they weave together, an unknown phenomenon called "cherry blossoms" is born, and the shadow of a turbulent age creeps in.

cast

The cast of this work is a gathering of unique voice actors, including Hatano Tasuku as Koga Hachiro, Minase Inori as Iga Hibiki, Tokuishi Katsuhiro as Goishi Saizō, and Ochiai Fukushi as Kora Shikibu. Their performances delve deeply into the inner worlds of their characters, leaving a strong impression on viewers. In particular, the performances of Hatano Tasuku and Minase Inori realistically express the complex emotions of Hachiro and Hibiki, supporting the core of the story.

Main Staff

The series boasts a stellar staff, including director Nishimura Junji, series composition by Onishi Shinsuke, character design by Kosuge Kazuhisa, and chief animation director Maki Takao. Animation is handled by Seven Arcs Pictures, which faithfully reproduces the worldview of the original work while adding new interpretations to it, achieving both visual beauty and narrative depth. The music is by Sakabe Tsuyoshi, with the opening theme by Onmyo-za and the ending theme by Mizuki Nana. These songs are important elements in enhancing the atmosphere of the story.

Main Characters

Koga Hachiro is the protagonist of this work and the head of the Koga Goho Ren. He is the biological son of Gennosuke and Oboro, and is blood-related with Hibiki. He is intelligent and capable, but his common sense of thinking can sometimes be a hindrance. He has the "Hokkei" technique, which allows him to return the hostility of those reflected in his eyes. Meanwhile, Iga Hibiki is the head of the Iga Gokasen, and is a charming girl who combines elegance and innocence. However, her innocence also carries the risk of going out of control, and her mysterious nature can sometimes inspire fear. He has the "Tategan" technique, which allows him to erase the hostility of those reflected in her eyes.

Other characters with unique personalities include Goishi Saizō, Kora Shikibu, Chichibu Shichigen, Negoro Tunne, Ren, Namida, Gen, Nameba, Nariyuki, Kujaku Taku, Rinne Magoroku, Neridaiō, Yashaji, Tokugawa Tadanaga, Hidakabo, Kusanagi Kazuma, Scarlet Letter Fires, Shichito Kujiranomi, Yusa Tenshin, Shogyo Kareha, Tsuta Hoetsu, Shikisaitsuma, Suiren Akizuki, and many more. Their ninja techniques and backgrounds add to the appeal of the work.

subtitle

The series is made up of 24 episodes, each with a different theme and plot that draws viewers in. From episode 1, "Cherry Blossoms Bloom," to episode 24, "Cherry Blossoms Bloom Again," the story develops at a rapid pace and moves towards a climax. The titles of each episode are chosen according to the progression of the story, making it easy for viewers to follow the flow of the story.

Theme songs and music

The opening theme, "Ouka Ninpocho", is sung by Onmyo-za and expresses the grandeur and beauty of the story. The ending theme, "HOT BLOOD" and "Suikoen", are sung by Mizuki Nana and deeply express the emotions of the story. These songs help the viewer to immerse themselves in the story.

Ratings and Recommendations

"Basilisk: Ouka Ninja Scrolls" is a work that has succeeded in depicting the world of ninjas from a new perspective while continuing the deep themes of the original work. Many elements have been highly praised, including the portrayal of the characters' inner thoughts, beautiful visuals, and epic story development. In particular, the relationship between Hachiro and Hibiki, and the conflict between ninja destiny and love, deeply touch the hearts of viewers.

This work is recommended not only for those who like ninja and historical stories, but also for those who want to enjoy deep human drama. By following the development of the story and the growth of the characters, viewers will be able to gain new discoveries and be moved. In addition, the beautiful animation and music are also points not to be missed, providing visual and auditory enjoyment.

In addition, this work is linked to the original novel and other media mix works, so you can enjoy the world view even more deeply. Even after you finish watching the anime, you can immerse yourself in the world of the story for a long time by reading the original novel or checking out related works.

"Basilisk: The Ouka Ninja Scroll" is a magnificent story depicting the drama of love and destiny, and is a work that leaves a strong impression on viewers. Please give it a watch.