When I first was introduced to Samurai Champloo, I instantly knew that it was going to be hit for two big names ~ Shinichiro Watanabe and Nujabes. For those of you who aren't made aware, Shinichiro Watanabe is the brilliant film director, screenwriter, and producer of the renowned Anime phenomenon ~ Cowboy Bebop. A timeless director, Shinichiro truly delivers when it comes to engaging characters, interesting storytelling, dark settings, unexpected humor, and a world that is unforgettable. Nujabes (may he R.I.P.) is the brilliant DJ/music producer behind Samurai Champloo and is, without question, my favorite DJ of all time. He combines melodies of Hip-Hop, Jazz, & Funk ~ something that works and is a breath of fresh air to listen to. Although Nujabes no longer is with us, his music still lives on in our hearts. When you combine those two legends, you get none other than Samurai Champloo. What's the story? It's a story of our heroes: Jin, Mugen, & Fuu who are in search for "a samurai who smells of sunflowers." Spawning 26 episodes from 2004-2005, Samurai Champloo, in my opinion, is known for its unique and distinct take on a period genre, utilizing Hip-Hop & Jazz elements, and, like Cowboy Bebop, is also critically acclaimed. This is Watababe's 2nd major work after Cowboy Bebop and, like Bebop, doesn't initially follow a linear storyline. It plots out in multiple directions and that works for Anime ~ not all shows have to follow a linear beginning-to-end story. I will, however, say that unlike Bebop ~ Champloo had some elements that I wasn't a big fan of. Although I'm a big BIG fan of Watababe's work, it's no question Bebop is his masterpiece. Champloo isn't a masterpiece for the following reasons:
1) Though the story is a driving point, I felt as if it had no clear ending to the characters AND felt like the meeting of the "samurai who smells of flowers" was rushed.
2) Bebop was an engaging series for its characters, storyline, and atmosphere, but Champloo, to some, came off as boring in comparison. When it diverts the audience's attention, that could be a problem.
3) Mugen & Jin were and always will be the mascots for Samurai Champloo, but what of Fuu? Fuu's the reason why they're looking for the "samurai who smells of sunflowers," but what's the drive behind Fuu finding this person? Fuu feels sidelined and for goodness sake, she's the protagonist who brought all 3 together ~ her role is small in comparison to Jin & Mugen.
With a great soundtrack, badass samurais, and a retelling of the samurai genre ~ Samurai Champloo is one of my favorite Anime(s) of all time, but I will go on the record it isn't a masterpiece like Cowboy Bebop. Watababe, in my opinion, is like director Quentin Tarantino. Always full of ideas that stray away from the norm of movies/series ~ the two seem to, in my opinion, combine genres, utilize different elements, and retell a setting/character in their own distinct way. Both are brilliant directors in their own craft and I can't wait to see more.
I hope you enjoyed this week's Legacy post. Look forward to Legacy posts on Thursdays. Until then, you all stay classy now.
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