Samurai Champloo: Episode 02

The follow-up is rather subdued compared to the pilot episode. While reintroduction of the characters is given focus, the action sequences and choreography took a backseat. But still, the few minutes of fighting were worth watching.

The one-armed man’s revenge could be a plot device for continuity from the first episode and a significant introduction of an interesting assassin. The first thing that came to mind watching the ogre-like person conversing normally with Fuu in that poorly lit shack was Beauty and the Beast. Fuu’s encounter with the beast emphasized her innate kindness.

The pairing of the fights highlights not only the techniques of both Mugen and Jin but also their personality. Jin’s graceful moves and perfect technique obviously came from a disciplined background while Mugen’s unpolished yet powerful moves could be a result from frequent brawls and street fights.

Blatant sexuality is frankly shown but in a rather strangely tasteful manner. While a ‘lady’ offers her charms to Mugen, Jin politely refuses an old samurai’s advances. Will this be a recurring theme later on?

Very interesting developments yet I’m not satisfied. Of course, it’s too early to draw conclusions so we’ll have to wait. Nonetheless, I’m looking forward to trio’s journey to find the sunflower-dude. BTW, I still feel disconcerted hearing Mugen’s seiyuu. Whenever the character starts to speak, I keep picturing Zoro instead of Mugen. Weird.