Truly Beautifull. I havent seen the series, but has seen the first OVA and Requiem for the res... So much of this film was pretty messy as sequenses from this long series swirl by one after another without much explanation. But I read up on some Fan sites and the events, history and characters became much clearer, and I could appretiate the soul of the film without haveing seen the series. And I have to say that a film can move me deeply but I rarely cry, at all... But through the end of the second part I just wept. It was so sad and so beautifull... The categories I have judged separatly, and it still ended up as an all 10(nearly), but the most exellent parts of this anime are the characters and the great story. Maybe I will watch the series one day, but for me the serious, mature Kenshin that is portrayed in the 2 OVAS will allways be the one who stays in my heart and soul. Do see The first OVA or the series before you see this film as it is not stand alone in any way. Average 9.8(10)
21 Reviews
Great, only if you've seen the T.V. series and the first OVA.
Epsilon100017 August 2002
I thought that the Rurôni Kenshin Seisô hen OVA was great. There are some problems with it though. The lack of explaination of who the characters are is one major flaw in the movie. By the time I saw this OVA though, I saw some of the T.V. series and the first OVA and knew who most of the characters were. Anyone who has not seen the first OVA and the T.V. series may be confused to what's going on. This should only be watched after the first OVA and at least some of the T.V. series. There are many flash backs, like the rest of the Rurouni Rurôni movies, which may also cause some confusion.
I gave this a 9 because I understood what was going, and I like how the battle sequences were done. Without knowledge of who everyone is and what happened in the first OVA, this would be pointless movie to watch.
I gave this a 9 because I understood what was going, and I like how the battle sequences were done. Without knowledge of who everyone is and what happened in the first OVA, this would be pointless movie to watch.
The OVA that ends it all...
Sander Pilon28 April 2002
Kenshin lasted a long time: OVAs, Movies and more then three years of television - but all good things must come to an end.
Will Kaoru get Kenshin? What will happen to Yahiko and Sanouske?
This 2-part Kenshin OVA answers those questions and ends the series in a worthy way. It is not as good as some of the other OVA's and TV episodes, but not bad at all.
You could see it as a summary of the TV series plus a final episode.
Fans will definitely not want to miss this, if only to close the magnificent book of Kenshin.
Rating: 8/10
Will Kaoru get Kenshin? What will happen to Yahiko and Sanouske?
This 2-part Kenshin OVA answers those questions and ends the series in a worthy way. It is not as good as some of the other OVA's and TV episodes, but not bad at all.
You could see it as a summary of the TV series plus a final episode.
Fans will definitely not want to miss this, if only to close the magnificent book of Kenshin.
Rating: 8/10
Seisô hen
mel_lzl10 February 2006
Seisô hen basically means after so many years have lapsed. i think it's a beautiful production and its really worth a try. a word of caution though, i notice many who followed the anime/Manga didn't find this OVA very worthwhile. but if you didn't, and only watched Tsuioku hen, then your in for an awesome treat. it's mainly Kaoru reminiscing about her and Kenshin's past. about their past encounters and so forth, so to anime viewers, it's more like a whole summary of the series but to non-anime viewers, it's like a whole burst of information! all the stuff you missed out on! though anime viewers say that it isn't accurate. but oh well, i had nothing to lose. Kenshin goes off to china and just doesn't come back, Kaoru's ill after contracting his disease from him but still awaits his return. Kenji, out of frustration, left for Kyoto to seek the skill of Hiten Mitsurugi Ryu from Hiko. Sanosuke manages to find Kenshin only to realise he's lost his memory, only with one thing left: he has to go home. so Sanosuke helps him out, sends him home to japan, back to Kaoru. then this is the best part. *weeps and sobs her head off*
the soundtrack is awesome. i got ordered and imported from Japan, waited a month for it. that's how much i adore it. just listening to the songs with your eyes closed or whatever, brings back all the emotions you felt when you were watching the show. yeah.
by the way, i didn't watch the anime. so it was superb to me.
the soundtrack is awesome. i got ordered and imported from Japan, waited a month for it. that's how much i adore it. just listening to the songs with your eyes closed or whatever, brings back all the emotions you felt when you were watching the show. yeah.
by the way, i didn't watch the anime. so it was superb to me.
The animation, story, and music actually made me well up they were so good.
Jessbob1 April 2003
I'm a 20 year old guy from Boston, and I actually welled up this OVA ending to one of my favorites series was just so beautifully sad. And no, I'm straight, but the animation is top notch, the music is some of my favorite of all time (I bought the cd 2 years ago [import]), and as a fan of the series it was a fittingly awesome ending to this epic tale. I hope they continue it with the side characters, like Kenji who was extremely cool in his scenes. Oh well enough blabbering from me just know that this recently released DVD is well worth it for fans of the series.
Moving Movie
kitkatkookoo29 January 2005
This was an excellent film, or OVA as I've seen other people call it. But I have never seen any of this series or anything, so I watched it as a movie and had no knowledge of any of the characters or their backgrounds. At first everything was really confusing, but when I listened carefully to everything that was said and payed really close attention to what was going on, I was able to catch on and understand the plot and most of the characters' motivation. I loved the story, and I was in tears at the end because this was put together so well and I felt like I could feel what the characters were feeling, and everything was so sad and so sweet at the same time. If you haven't seen this yet, I strongly recommend it.
The conclusion of the TV series
JoakimH15 April 2002
This new OVA brings a conclusion to the TV series. If you haven't seen any of the TV series (or read the manga) you should see/read them before watching this. Seisouhen doesn't explain anything about the characters.
The Seisouhen is split in two parts, the first is basically a recap of the TV series, and the second brings a conclusion to it all. It is drawn in the same way (or similar at least) as the first 4 OVA episodes were (American title: Samurai X), which is in a realistic (as realistic as anime gets...) and beautiful way.
There is not much action to be found in Seisouhen, instead it is very emotional (I actually shed a tear or two) and it is a beautiful finish to it all.
In conclusion: if you have seen some of the TV series and seen the other 4 OVA episodes (Samurai X) this is something you will not and cannot miss. If not, watching Seisouhen will be a complete waste of time for you.
The Seisouhen is split in two parts, the first is basically a recap of the TV series, and the second brings a conclusion to it all. It is drawn in the same way (or similar at least) as the first 4 OVA episodes were (American title: Samurai X), which is in a realistic (as realistic as anime gets...) and beautiful way.
There is not much action to be found in Seisouhen, instead it is very emotional (I actually shed a tear or two) and it is a beautiful finish to it all.
In conclusion: if you have seen some of the TV series and seen the other 4 OVA episodes (Samurai X) this is something you will not and cannot miss. If not, watching Seisouhen will be a complete waste of time for you.
A Beautiful Masterpice
arorashadow_200311 July 2005
I thought it was very very good. Truly a work of art, and a classic in my book. A little slow moving for an Action series, but very good. But I really didn't mind it being a little slow, as action doesn't mean it will be good. My gripe, at times I got a little lost and confused, but none the less, quickly bounced back. And it had absolute wonderful music too, absolutely a beautiful Original Score. I tell you it truly is the most moving soundtrack ever, gives Hans Zimmer a run for his money. It would win an Oscar. The only problem with it is, that it was used a bit too much. When you use music to much it loses it's power for other sequences. Composers have to be-careful with that. But it really was good. If there's a soundtrack out there, I'll be getting it. Not the best of Animation, but oh well, it is an OAV, and Anime is under-budgeted anyway.
And it was an absolute wonderful and powerful story. So beautifully told, too. Two lovers, who are so dedicated to each other, and how war affects them. I cant ask for a better story. It redeems the incredibly bloody action/violence. Another thing I really liked was, even though it was action, it had a lot of drama in it, and mind. I don't like mindless action/violence, riddled with drug content, or language. B/c there comes a point when violence is too distracting, and you loose the focus of the story. I'm may be a guy, but I'm a softy for the sappy stuff. Especially with Romance. That's what I always love about Anime, there is some kind of Drama. "Kawaii overdoes" as was stated on the descriptors of Anime Network's parental guidance warning. And they mean it. And it had the most powerful ending ever. Simple, pure, and heart wrenching. Two Lovers clearly week likely on there death bed, walk down a beaten path to each other, and our long time hero, dies right in her armes. So powerful, it puts you to tears.
Nice use of music, visuals, cast, and theme. Great use of thematic elements, to give it the emotional punch. Terrfic Voice Acting from the English cast. And a really sad ending too.
If you are a Kenshin Fan, and you haven't's seen this, you should!!!! It is wonderful, and even if you are not, if you like action/adventure, or your a sucker for the sweet sappy stuff (like me) you are bound to love this. I strongly recommend it! As I haven't seen the other OAV's, you might want to check those out too.
And it was an absolute wonderful and powerful story. So beautifully told, too. Two lovers, who are so dedicated to each other, and how war affects them. I cant ask for a better story. It redeems the incredibly bloody action/violence. Another thing I really liked was, even though it was action, it had a lot of drama in it, and mind. I don't like mindless action/violence, riddled with drug content, or language. B/c there comes a point when violence is too distracting, and you loose the focus of the story. I'm may be a guy, but I'm a softy for the sappy stuff. Especially with Romance. That's what I always love about Anime, there is some kind of Drama. "Kawaii overdoes" as was stated on the descriptors of Anime Network's parental guidance warning. And they mean it. And it had the most powerful ending ever. Simple, pure, and heart wrenching. Two Lovers clearly week likely on there death bed, walk down a beaten path to each other, and our long time hero, dies right in her armes. So powerful, it puts you to tears.
Nice use of music, visuals, cast, and theme. Great use of thematic elements, to give it the emotional punch. Terrfic Voice Acting from the English cast. And a really sad ending too.
If you are a Kenshin Fan, and you haven't's seen this, you should!!!! It is wonderful, and even if you are not, if you like action/adventure, or your a sucker for the sweet sappy stuff (like me) you are bound to love this. I strongly recommend it! As I haven't seen the other OAV's, you might want to check those out too.
Worth a Watch
page_roy9 February 2017
https://youtu.be/0gX_3H4fxbU The link is a YouTube Video Review watch before you watch this Anime!. $ Really good Art. $ Really great Sound. $ If you like anime, its worth the watch!! $ this show is for adults! $ a lot of blood $ Enjoy guys!I'm not easily impressed by a movie. Even worse with an animated one. But this one got me drooling. I picked this one up by recommendation, and I'll recommend it to anyone from now on. I was familiar with the story of the TV series, but that didn't excite me in the least. But at least I knew what I was looking at (and I suggest that people considering to watch this should familiarize themselves with the TV series first).
Kenshin Finally Finds Rest in Kaoru's Arms.
Vivekmaru4517 September 2010
This film is a recollection of Kaoru's memories with Kenshin who makes the decision to wander again. Kaoru strongly supports him, promising to welcome him home with a smile and their child Kenji Himura.
Kenshin eventually becomes ravaged by an unknown disease that is much like leprosy(the writers have admitted there is no medical explanation for Kenshin's condition). To share his pain, Kaoru convinces Kenshin to infect her with the disease through sexual intercourse. Kenshin then leaves to go assist in the First Sino-Japanese War (primarily over control of Korea) as he had promised the Meiji Government, not fighting and killing, but instead helping people.
After the war's end, Sanosuke discovers a very ill Kenshin sometime after he had fallen overboard on a ship. Sanosuke arranges Kenshin's return to Tokyo by boat. Upon arriving, a bed-ridden Kaoru, almost on instinct, gets up to walk outside the dojo on the cherry blossom path, seeing her husband struggling with each step to meet her.
The two finally meet, and Kenshin collapses into her arms as he clutches her to him. Kenshin tells Kaoru that he returned for her, and Kaoru quietly greets him with his old name, Shinta, for he had asked it before he left the last time. Soon, they end up beneath a cherry blossom tree, where Kaoru tells him that they will invite everyone for a cherry blossom viewing, and continue to gather in the years to come. With the silence growing stronger, Kaoru realizes that Kenshin has died quietly in her arms. Upon brushing his hair off his left cheek, Kaoru notices Kenshin's scar has faded away, signifying an end to his life of pain and bloodshed and commencement to a life of peace. In the final scene before the credits, she holds his head in her arms and weeps.
After the credits finish rolling, there is a scene which shows Kenshin and Kaoru's son, Kenji, walking with a young girl, Chizuru, beneath the cherry blossoms, saying that they will live happily together.
In conclusion we feel happy for Kenshin that he has finally find peace at last in Kaoru's arms. In death he has finally freed himself from all of his past crimes. His son can now start the life he himself never had and live as a honorable citizen.
8/10 because it is a rather slow story and it is definitely not for children and teenagers. Older couples will find it more to their liking.
Kenshin eventually becomes ravaged by an unknown disease that is much like leprosy(the writers have admitted there is no medical explanation for Kenshin's condition). To share his pain, Kaoru convinces Kenshin to infect her with the disease through sexual intercourse. Kenshin then leaves to go assist in the First Sino-Japanese War (primarily over control of Korea) as he had promised the Meiji Government, not fighting and killing, but instead helping people.
After the war's end, Sanosuke discovers a very ill Kenshin sometime after he had fallen overboard on a ship. Sanosuke arranges Kenshin's return to Tokyo by boat. Upon arriving, a bed-ridden Kaoru, almost on instinct, gets up to walk outside the dojo on the cherry blossom path, seeing her husband struggling with each step to meet her.
The two finally meet, and Kenshin collapses into her arms as he clutches her to him. Kenshin tells Kaoru that he returned for her, and Kaoru quietly greets him with his old name, Shinta, for he had asked it before he left the last time. Soon, they end up beneath a cherry blossom tree, where Kaoru tells him that they will invite everyone for a cherry blossom viewing, and continue to gather in the years to come. With the silence growing stronger, Kaoru realizes that Kenshin has died quietly in her arms. Upon brushing his hair off his left cheek, Kaoru notices Kenshin's scar has faded away, signifying an end to his life of pain and bloodshed and commencement to a life of peace. In the final scene before the credits, she holds his head in her arms and weeps.
After the credits finish rolling, there is a scene which shows Kenshin and Kaoru's son, Kenji, walking with a young girl, Chizuru, beneath the cherry blossoms, saying that they will live happily together.
In conclusion we feel happy for Kenshin that he has finally find peace at last in Kaoru's arms. In death he has finally freed himself from all of his past crimes. His son can now start the life he himself never had and live as a honorable citizen.
8/10 because it is a rather slow story and it is definitely not for children and teenagers. Older couples will find it more to their liking.
A conclusion
ampgalore23 December 2007
Warning: Spoilers
Before you watch this OVA/movie, you should really watch some parts of the TV series, and the first two OVA's in the Kenshin universe. This will really help you flesh out the background, and make watching this OVA/movie more enjoyable.
This OVA/movie is really a recap of some of the major events in the TV series and the first two OVA's. The animation is completely brand new, so they didn't just reuse the old footage, they redrew everything from scratch. The animation style is distinctly different from what you are used to seeing. Some people like it, some people don't. I still feel ambivalent about it, particularly about the eyes, they are much more exaggerated.
As to the story, well, even after all these years, Kenshin is still laden with the guilt over all those people he killed during the Meiji Restoration era. He married Kaoru, and they had a son. But Kenshin feels compelled to continue to lead the life of the wandering samurai, only returning home to Kaoru intermittently over the years, because he cannot set aside his guilt laden conscience, and feels that by leading the life of a wandering samurai, and helping people along the way, he is in some measure making atonement for his bloody past.
At some point Kenshin contracted leprosy (the OVA/movie never explicitly states this, but sure looks like it) and suffers horribly from it. Kaoru willingly contracts it from Kenshin, because she feels that in contracting the same illness as Kenshin's, she can share Kenshin's pain and suffering, and in some measure be emotionally more connected to Kenshin.
Kenshin then went to China at the behest of the Japanese government. From the time line, it should have been around the time of the first or the second Sino-Japanese war. Then after some time while in China, Kenshin falls gravely ill. Sanosuke then came, and helped Kenshin get on a cargo ship headed back to Japan.
Kenshin and Kaoru finally meet again after so many years of separation. Kenshin then dies while resting in Kaoru's lap. After the credits, we see Kenshin and Kaoru's son, Kenji, all grown up, very much like the young Kenshin we are all familiar with from the TV series, and a his young girl friend, very much like the young Kaoru. They promise each other that they would lead a happy life together, a life which, because of Kenshin's past, so eluded Kenshin and Kaoru.
Overall, it's a OVA/anime. But I do feel that the story is not on par with the first two Kenshin OVA's. I especially have problems with the part about Kaoru willingly contracting leprosy from Kenshin, and that in contracting the disease, Kaoru feels that she is emotionally closer to Kenshin. This whole premise just feels contrite and forced.
Kenshin probably suffers from some serious post traumatic stress disorder. This is probably why he sets out wandering all over Japan and then to China even after his marriage with Kaoru and even after Kaoru gave birth to their son. Once scarred, you are scarred for life. Even in this day and age, there are seldom effective treatments for PTSD's.
It's a sad ending.
This OVA/movie is really a recap of some of the major events in the TV series and the first two OVA's. The animation is completely brand new, so they didn't just reuse the old footage, they redrew everything from scratch. The animation style is distinctly different from what you are used to seeing. Some people like it, some people don't. I still feel ambivalent about it, particularly about the eyes, they are much more exaggerated.
As to the story, well, even after all these years, Kenshin is still laden with the guilt over all those people he killed during the Meiji Restoration era. He married Kaoru, and they had a son. But Kenshin feels compelled to continue to lead the life of the wandering samurai, only returning home to Kaoru intermittently over the years, because he cannot set aside his guilt laden conscience, and feels that by leading the life of a wandering samurai, and helping people along the way, he is in some measure making atonement for his bloody past.
At some point Kenshin contracted leprosy (the OVA/movie never explicitly states this, but sure looks like it) and suffers horribly from it. Kaoru willingly contracts it from Kenshin, because she feels that in contracting the same illness as Kenshin's, she can share Kenshin's pain and suffering, and in some measure be emotionally more connected to Kenshin.
Kenshin then went to China at the behest of the Japanese government. From the time line, it should have been around the time of the first or the second Sino-Japanese war. Then after some time while in China, Kenshin falls gravely ill. Sanosuke then came, and helped Kenshin get on a cargo ship headed back to Japan.
Kenshin and Kaoru finally meet again after so many years of separation. Kenshin then dies while resting in Kaoru's lap. After the credits, we see Kenshin and Kaoru's son, Kenji, all grown up, very much like the young Kenshin we are all familiar with from the TV series, and a his young girl friend, very much like the young Kaoru. They promise each other that they would lead a happy life together, a life which, because of Kenshin's past, so eluded Kenshin and Kaoru.
Overall, it's a OVA/anime. But I do feel that the story is not on par with the first two Kenshin OVA's. I especially have problems with the part about Kaoru willingly contracting leprosy from Kenshin, and that in contracting the disease, Kaoru feels that she is emotionally closer to Kenshin. This whole premise just feels contrite and forced.
Kenshin probably suffers from some serious post traumatic stress disorder. This is probably why he sets out wandering all over Japan and then to China even after his marriage with Kaoru and even after Kaoru gave birth to their son. Once scarred, you are scarred for life. Even in this day and age, there are seldom effective treatments for PTSD's.
It's a sad ending.
Touching
kenchu10 October 2009
Just leaving a short comment here. I just wanted to share how incredibly touched I was by this.
It's the first time in 10 years that I watched the Rurouni Kenshin series again, but this one I hadn't seen before. Imagine watching the 95 episodes (well, maybe not all of them), then Trust & Betrayal, and then this. For the first time. Gosh, call me what you will but I cried in the end of this movie. I haven't done so for years and years. Maybe it was because somewhere in the back of my mind I've wondered what happened to Kenshin and his friends ever since I saw the last episode of the series 10 years ago, and then to finally know. Maybe that's what triggered my emotional response. Or maybe the movie just was that good. Or most likely, a mix of those.
Thank you for this movie. It touched my emotions greatly.
It's the first time in 10 years that I watched the Rurouni Kenshin series again, but this one I hadn't seen before. Imagine watching the 95 episodes (well, maybe not all of them), then Trust & Betrayal, and then this. For the first time. Gosh, call me what you will but I cried in the end of this movie. I haven't done so for years and years. Maybe it was because somewhere in the back of my mind I've wondered what happened to Kenshin and his friends ever since I saw the last episode of the series 10 years ago, and then to finally know. Maybe that's what triggered my emotional response. Or maybe the movie just was that good. Or most likely, a mix of those.
Thank you for this movie. It touched my emotions greatly.
Don't view it as the end
AmonAmarth8563 September 2008
I have one major complaint about Seisô Hen. Seisô Hen was not written by Watsuki (creator of Rurouni Kenshin, so the ending in the manga is different than the OVA. The ending to this OVA is far more depressing, and according to an interview with Watsuki, he prefers the manga ending because "Kenshin went through so much crap he deserved a happy ending". The beauty of Rurouni Kenshin being fiction, you can choose which ending to believe in. Quite frankly the ending entirely ruined it for me.
That aside, what you do have is a masterful OVA. The animation, artwork, and sound are of spectacular quality. When it comes to technical merit, this gets a 10/10. However technical qualities won't make up for the ending.
If you've read the manga, go ahead and give it a watch. Just keep in mind that the ending is not what Watsuki wanted. I've seen it once and plan on never watching it again
That aside, what you do have is a masterful OVA. The animation, artwork, and sound are of spectacular quality. When it comes to technical merit, this gets a 10/10. However technical qualities won't make up for the ending.
If you've read the manga, go ahead and give it a watch. Just keep in mind that the ending is not what Watsuki wanted. I've seen it once and plan on never watching it again
Depressing!
apollo_panther10 September 2011
Warning: Spoilers
I thought it was completely out of character first of all! The whole thing practically oozed depression. Also, it totally disregarded the essence of Rurouni Kenshin. You'd think that Kenshin and Kaoru would be a bit more happier after getting married and having a child together. Its hard to judge if they really were but the impression it gave off was horrible! It was utterly sad.
No doubt the ending was beautiful despite the fact that he died. But regardless, he died in her arms and without the cross shaped scar. So, I suppose we could say he was somewhat at peace? .. Like Nabuhiro Watsuki said, Kenshin did go through a lot of crap and the least he deserved was a happy ending. It was disappointing.
Plus the fact that Kenji totally despised him. As if, Kenshin really needed that burden among all his other sadness. Did Kenshin even know that Kenji hated him? ...
It did have its sweet moments though, such as Kaoru wanting to share the pain of Kenshin. Thats something Kaoru even in the Anime would've done, even though it was through sexual intercourse.
Kenshin is a little hard to figure out in both so its difficult to say whether or not he would've left Kaoru and Kenji to wander and fight in the war if he had been the same as in the Anime. But both times he had people to return to so who knows.
It definitely could've been much much happier. I could feel every aspect of it except happiness even if it seemed like they were!
No doubt the ending was beautiful despite the fact that he died. But regardless, he died in her arms and without the cross shaped scar. So, I suppose we could say he was somewhat at peace? .. Like Nabuhiro Watsuki said, Kenshin did go through a lot of crap and the least he deserved was a happy ending. It was disappointing.
Plus the fact that Kenji totally despised him. As if, Kenshin really needed that burden among all his other sadness. Did Kenshin even know that Kenji hated him? ...
It did have its sweet moments though, such as Kaoru wanting to share the pain of Kenshin. Thats something Kaoru even in the Anime would've done, even though it was through sexual intercourse.
Kenshin is a little hard to figure out in both so its difficult to say whether or not he would've left Kaoru and Kenji to wander and fight in the war if he had been the same as in the Anime. But both times he had people to return to so who knows.
It definitely could've been much much happier. I could feel every aspect of it except happiness even if it seemed like they were!
Nearly as good as Trust and Betrayal
romulus_god19 January 2009
This one starts kind of blurry, but if you are familiar with the series and/or manga you will definitely understand it perfectly.
In the first part it covers the events that happened after Kaoru met Kenshin and it is all seen through Kaoru's eyes, which was an excellent idea because it let's you feel every last bit of pain happiness and sorrow that she has to endure.
In the second part the plot becomes clearer and you can see that this movie returns Kenshin Himura to the original Trust and Betrayal dark and and somewhat sad atmosphere which is perfect for the main character. the story just gets you going as it is very well written and again it makes you feel everything in a genuine way.
It is very interesting to see how the characters have evolved since the end of the series and you might even be in for a few surprises, big ones!
The end of the movie gives a sad but somehow a relieved end to the story and the wanderings of Kenshin and it makes think about it, I must say that it even made me cry, that's how much of an impact it may have.
So, this movie is one of the best to have ever came out of Japan and it may only be second to the first Samurai X movie. Watch and enjoy!
In the first part it covers the events that happened after Kaoru met Kenshin and it is all seen through Kaoru's eyes, which was an excellent idea because it let's you feel every last bit of pain happiness and sorrow that she has to endure.
In the second part the plot becomes clearer and you can see that this movie returns Kenshin Himura to the original Trust and Betrayal dark and and somewhat sad atmosphere which is perfect for the main character. the story just gets you going as it is very well written and again it makes you feel everything in a genuine way.
It is very interesting to see how the characters have evolved since the end of the series and you might even be in for a few surprises, big ones!
The end of the movie gives a sad but somehow a relieved end to the story and the wanderings of Kenshin and it makes think about it, I must say that it even made me cry, that's how much of an impact it may have.
So, this movie is one of the best to have ever came out of Japan and it may only be second to the first Samurai X movie. Watch and enjoy!
Horrid Betrayal of the Spirit of RuroKen
OmegaWolf7478 March 2006
Warning: Spoilers
This is the biggest piece of garbage I've seen that's attached to the name Rurouni Kenshin. I never saw the third season of the anime, but I could probably tolerate that better than this train-wreck.
A lot of people like the animation and character design. I despised it. The characters all look ugly, with these glazed-over eyes and depressive faces. They look nothing at all as they do in the manga, or even the anime.
The Jinchuu Arc has all the important plot-points (the three-front attack, the corpse doll, Rakuninmura and Kenshin putting his demons to rest) stripped out. In this version, all that happens is Enishi kidnaps Kaoru (who doesn't even try to fight him) and leaves a note saying, "Jinchuu". Kenshin goes to the island alone (instead of with all the others as he did in the manga), fights Enishi, beats him and then offers his life in exchange for Koaru's. *flips through her manga volumes and can't find one instance of kenshin offering his life to an enemy* Since Kenshin never went through the life-altering experience of Rakuninmura, he really couldn't form a close bond with Kaoru in this OVA as he did in the manga. That is why five years into their marriage, his attitude was, "Screw my family. Saving the world is more important", and he went to China to help the Meiji government invade a sovereign nation. I'm 100% sure this is something manga-Kenshin would never do.
The idea of Kenshin sleeping with Kaoru when he has a communicable disease and condemning her to death is laughable. Hello, no-kill vow anyone! Or perhaps this doesn't include the woman he's supposed to love.
Kaoru is changed from a strong, fiery-tempered shihondai who would beat the crap out of her husband for even thinking of such a thing in the manga to this weak-willed and spineless woman who just sits there crying as Kenshin goes off. Then she welcomes him back with open arms and sleeps with him in order to "share his pain".
This is reminiscent of Hindu women, who would throw themselves on their husbands' funeral pyres because apparently in those cultures, a wife's life is meaningless if her husband dies. The director was portraying Kenshin and Kaoru as a traditional Japanese couple rather than as Kenshin and Kaoru.
I have no problem with being historically and culturally accurate, but not at the price of butchering Watsuki's characters and storyline. Either follow the manga, or don't animate the stupid thing!
A lot of people like the animation and character design. I despised it. The characters all look ugly, with these glazed-over eyes and depressive faces. They look nothing at all as they do in the manga, or even the anime.
The Jinchuu Arc has all the important plot-points (the three-front attack, the corpse doll, Rakuninmura and Kenshin putting his demons to rest) stripped out. In this version, all that happens is Enishi kidnaps Kaoru (who doesn't even try to fight him) and leaves a note saying, "Jinchuu". Kenshin goes to the island alone (instead of with all the others as he did in the manga), fights Enishi, beats him and then offers his life in exchange for Koaru's. *flips through her manga volumes and can't find one instance of kenshin offering his life to an enemy* Since Kenshin never went through the life-altering experience of Rakuninmura, he really couldn't form a close bond with Kaoru in this OVA as he did in the manga. That is why five years into their marriage, his attitude was, "Screw my family. Saving the world is more important", and he went to China to help the Meiji government invade a sovereign nation. I'm 100% sure this is something manga-Kenshin would never do.
The idea of Kenshin sleeping with Kaoru when he has a communicable disease and condemning her to death is laughable. Hello, no-kill vow anyone! Or perhaps this doesn't include the woman he's supposed to love.
Kaoru is changed from a strong, fiery-tempered shihondai who would beat the crap out of her husband for even thinking of such a thing in the manga to this weak-willed and spineless woman who just sits there crying as Kenshin goes off. Then she welcomes him back with open arms and sleeps with him in order to "share his pain".
This is reminiscent of Hindu women, who would throw themselves on their husbands' funeral pyres because apparently in those cultures, a wife's life is meaningless if her husband dies. The director was portraying Kenshin and Kaoru as a traditional Japanese couple rather than as Kenshin and Kaoru.
I have no problem with being historically and culturally accurate, but not at the price of butchering Watsuki's characters and storyline. Either follow the manga, or don't animate the stupid thing!
Well this Is the Truth
blink-fanlife4 August 2008
Why put a happy series and happy people to a depressing, dieing, mean ending. Thats like putting mickey mouse in a coma cuz he abused his son he had with minnie . then he killed minnie then mickey gets a disease and dies and you have to watch ALL OF IT.
mickey was happy.
Kenshin was happy, we all new kaoru and kenshin were going to get married. They were gonna have a kid named kenji so Lord watsuki named. they were gonna live a happy life with Sano and yahiko around. Yahiko and Tsubame were gonna date. Sano and megumi were gonna eventually be together. If either Kenshin or Kauru died, it would of been old age. Nothing depressing. Thats what watsuki wanted, not bull like this.
Rurouni kenshin was filled with comedy and Romance. Not a bunch of depressing crap and diseases. Stay away from the film. If you have a kid go show them what happens to mickey. Thats how me and true kenshin fans felt. And thats how Noburhiro felt.
mickey was happy.
Kenshin was happy, we all new kaoru and kenshin were going to get married. They were gonna have a kid named kenji so Lord watsuki named. they were gonna live a happy life with Sano and yahiko around. Yahiko and Tsubame were gonna date. Sano and megumi were gonna eventually be together. If either Kenshin or Kauru died, it would of been old age. Nothing depressing. Thats what watsuki wanted, not bull like this.
Rurouni kenshin was filled with comedy and Romance. Not a bunch of depressing crap and diseases. Stay away from the film. If you have a kid go show them what happens to mickey. Thats how me and true kenshin fans felt. And thats how Noburhiro felt.
This is not Rurouni Kenshin
juujuuuujj24 December 2008
What happens when a positive story with humor and an optimistic message is retold as a depressing melodrama riddled with pessimism, disease and negativity? A masterpiece? No, of course not. The result is something so absurdly different from the original that there's simply no reason to acknowledge any connection between the two. Just think of Seisohen as something else. A different story with different characters.
We know that Kenshin wants to redeem himself for the blood he spilled during the revolution, but who knows why, in Seisohen he decides to go to China to kill even more people. The impression is given that Kenshin's lust for blood is so strong that he goes sneaking out at night killing people... because he can't escape his cruel destiny of a killer. The whole story behind the Reverse blade sword is lost. The motive of redemption through helping people is lost.
If you've seen the original series, watching Seisohen will probably give you the feeling that all the main characters are on drugs, terminally ill or suicidal. You might ask: "What the hell happened to everyone?" or "Is the Ghost of Christmas future showing me this?" No, you're simply watching a different show. Something as absurd as a melodrama based on "South Park" or a comedy based on "Schindler's list". Just imagine.
The ending of Rurouni Kenshin is Episode 95: "End of Wanderings". That's it. Only watch Seisohen if you haven't seen the original, otherwise you'll be sorry.
An objective 2 stars out of 10 because the plagiarism and melodramatism negate anything achieved by the animation.
We know that Kenshin wants to redeem himself for the blood he spilled during the revolution, but who knows why, in Seisohen he decides to go to China to kill even more people. The impression is given that Kenshin's lust for blood is so strong that he goes sneaking out at night killing people... because he can't escape his cruel destiny of a killer. The whole story behind the Reverse blade sword is lost. The motive of redemption through helping people is lost.
If you've seen the original series, watching Seisohen will probably give you the feeling that all the main characters are on drugs, terminally ill or suicidal. You might ask: "What the hell happened to everyone?" or "Is the Ghost of Christmas future showing me this?" No, you're simply watching a different show. Something as absurd as a melodrama based on "South Park" or a comedy based on "Schindler's list". Just imagine.
The ending of Rurouni Kenshin is Episode 95: "End of Wanderings". That's it. Only watch Seisohen if you haven't seen the original, otherwise you'll be sorry.
An objective 2 stars out of 10 because the plagiarism and melodramatism negate anything achieved by the animation.
Good anime, but actionless and confuse
Thiago_Moyses17 February 2002
The new 2 OVA of Ruroni Kenshin(THE OVA THAT ENDS THE SERIES) brings the same quality of animation and plot of the first four. However, there is a problem, at least, in the first episode of 2. In the first OVA series, it explained well the characters and the facts for those, who never heard about Kenshin TV series enjoy and understand everything about the sad Killer with a X in his face. In the new OVA, you need to watch the TV series to understand in a better way what happens. Some Scenes were made to give a satisfaction to the fans, like the kiss between Kenshin and Kaoru(who never kissed in the TV series), a simple thing for those who never watched the TV series. All the plot is based in a confused flashback, with lack of explanation about the new characters( characters of the TV series). Even Kenshin is superficial. Fans will want to kill me, but it's true. The new OVA is far from the original first 4 episodes. In the other hand, it maintain the realism of the battles, being loyal with history, different than the TV series that everyone has special techniques using even magic. I give a "So-So". Better in second episode, my hope, explaining what is happening, because I don't know what is the climax of the story. Here in Brasilia, when my anime club showed it, it was a success! You ask why. Because Kenshin for them is Kenshin(=good)and final dot.
Unnecessary summary of the TV series
Film_Buffet3 December 2002
Unnecessary summary of the TV series - if you haven't seen the TV series this is very confusing or at least not coherent. Even when you have watched the TV series this is a waste of time - The other OVA is far better - stick to that instead
Ok story but definitely not Kenshin (glad it's not cannon)
jessewansbrough24 February 2023
This final chapter of Kenshin seemed a bit like a studio wanting to re-live it's success from "Trust and Betrayal" but missing the mark.
First of all if I put aside that this is supposed to be a Kenshin story I would say that it's an ok story (this is what I rated it on). However even if you take it as a non Kenshin story it has a very weak plot and direction and relies very heavily on flashbacks, in fact if you cut out all the flashbacks you would probably lose 60 percent of this show. This story has a very depressing undertone and takes a long time to really carve out any direction for the tired characters. In contrast to the Prequel series "Trust and Betrayal" which stood on its own with a well defined story and plot that leads nicely through to both the conclusion and the beginning of the Kenshin series this series is severely lacking and just send to involve a depressing spiral in non stop introspective and gloomy dialogue with an even weaker plot that seems only to really exist as a spindly scaffold to tack the aforementioned dialogue.
If I take this as a Kenshin story it is terrible it does not fit with the series despite utilising no end of flashbacks from its events. The character in this series does not seem to be Kenshin.
In the Series Kenshin had already reconciled his past and found happiness. He had already put his wandering behind him and would have been a good father instead of being a non-attentive father too busy wallowing in his own guilt. This series totally regresses the character. They seemed more interested in achieving that "Bitter Sweet" Motief than actually culminating the character in an accurate and believable manner.
While I would happily accept the bitter sweet Prequel as cannon as it shows how much the character of Kenshin was able to grow and move forward, I am very happy that this series is not considered cannon and it's gloomy and regressive portrayal is ignored in the manga and will apparently also be ignored in any future Kenshin series which will stick more inline with the authors (Nobuhiro Watsuki) desired outcome for his character.
First of all if I put aside that this is supposed to be a Kenshin story I would say that it's an ok story (this is what I rated it on). However even if you take it as a non Kenshin story it has a very weak plot and direction and relies very heavily on flashbacks, in fact if you cut out all the flashbacks you would probably lose 60 percent of this show. This story has a very depressing undertone and takes a long time to really carve out any direction for the tired characters. In contrast to the Prequel series "Trust and Betrayal" which stood on its own with a well defined story and plot that leads nicely through to both the conclusion and the beginning of the Kenshin series this series is severely lacking and just send to involve a depressing spiral in non stop introspective and gloomy dialogue with an even weaker plot that seems only to really exist as a spindly scaffold to tack the aforementioned dialogue.
If I take this as a Kenshin story it is terrible it does not fit with the series despite utilising no end of flashbacks from its events. The character in this series does not seem to be Kenshin.
In the Series Kenshin had already reconciled his past and found happiness. He had already put his wandering behind him and would have been a good father instead of being a non-attentive father too busy wallowing in his own guilt. This series totally regresses the character. They seemed more interested in achieving that "Bitter Sweet" Motief than actually culminating the character in an accurate and believable manner.
While I would happily accept the bitter sweet Prequel as cannon as it shows how much the character of Kenshin was able to grow and move forward, I am very happy that this series is not considered cannon and it's gloomy and regressive portrayal is ignored in the manga and will apparently also be ignored in any future Kenshin series which will stick more inline with the authors (Nobuhiro Watsuki) desired outcome for his character.
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