Shogun has become, on its own merit, one of the most remarkable series of 2024. The Disney Plus fiction has surpassed even the highly anticipated Netflix series The Three-Body Problem, and it has done so by meeting the expectations: being a worthy successor to Game of Thrones.
Without a doubt, Shogun has managed to perfectly combine the intricate narrative of James Clavell’s novel with the tone, perspectives, action, and depth of the best series of recent years. It has become the perfect series for our times, and it has done so without deviating in the slightest from the depth of its script.
Obviously, after watching a series like Shogun, you don’t remain the same. And it’s because its ten episodes have given a lot to talk about. But there is another fiction in which you can immerse yourself after it to get rid of the narrative quality, samurais, and action hangover.
We are talking about Blue Eye Samurai, a series that Netflix premiered last November and became one of the most highly regarded of 2023. Its high-quality animation, deeply captivating story, and masterfully written characters make it a worthy successor to Shogun. But what makes this series so special?
Why you should watch Blue Eye Samurai
Located in 17th century Japan, Edo period, Blue Eye Samurai follows the story of Mizu, a mixed-race samurai with blue eyes seeking revenge against four white men, facing his own past and the limitations imposed by society at the time. Thanks to its great story, the series has become a standout gem in Netflix’s adult animation catalog, captivating audiences with its combination of technical expertise, thematic depth, and captivating narrative.
The starting point of the series makes reference to various influences, from classic movies like Kill Bill to references to Japanese culture and the western genre. However, Blue Eye Samurai manages to create its own identity, exploring themes such as gender identity, honor, power, and revenge with a contemporary perspective and surprising depth.
The character of Mizu is complex and multidimensional, facing discrimination and hatred due to their mixed heritage, while struggling to find their place in a world full of dangers and political conspiracies. Additionally, through flashbacks and encounters with other characters, the series gradually reveals Mizu’s tumultuous history and motivations for seeking revenge, creating a fascinating portrait of a tormented hero.
One of the most incredible aspects of Blue Eye Samurai is its impressive animation, which combines elements of traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern techniques to create visually stunning scenes. From picturesque landscapes to thrilling sword duels, every detail is carefully crafted to immerse the viewer in the world of the Edo period.
In addition, the series also stands out for its intelligent and well-crafted script, which avoids genre clichés and offers unexpected twists and exciting moments in every episode. The plot unfolds at a fast pace, keeping the viewer intrigued and eager to find out what will happen next.
Blue Eye Samurai also benefits from a talented voice cast, which brings depth and authenticity to the characters. From Mizu’s passionate voice to the insightful dialogues between the different characters, each performance contributes to bringing the world of the series to life in a vivid and exciting way. Undoubtedly, all the ingredients that make up this series make it one of the standout shows on Netflix.
