REVENGER

Revenger

Aired Date: 2023-01-05

Status: FINISHED

Ratings: 64/100

Genres: Action

Season: 1

Total Episodes: 12

Duration: 24 min/ep

Studio: Ajiado

Source: ORIGINAL

Format: TV

Director: Masaya Fujimori

Review: 50/100

Watch Online: Twitter Official Site YouTube Crunchyroll

Synopsis

As master assassin Usui Yuen investigates a series of attacks made on the grand samurai clan, the Satsuma, he encounters survivor and clan member Kurima Raizo. Together, they unravel a conspiracy behind the murders, the true nature of which appears far grander than anyone first thought. As they get closer to the truth, will they come out alive to exact revenge? (Source: Crunchyroll)

Trailer

Characters

Raizou Kurima MAIN

Yuen Usui MAIN

Jounoshin Matsumine SUPPORTING

Azumiya SUPPORTING

Mujina SUPPORTING

Shuudoujo SUPPORTING

Mana SUPPORTING

Azumiya no Mekake SUPPORTING

Yui SUPPORTING

Knife Tsukai SUPPORTING

Revenger Season 1: A Gritty Samurai Tale of Vengeance and Intrigue

Revenger is a 2023 original Japanese anime series that delivers a dark, stylish, and action-packed exploration of revenge set in a historical Japanese backdrop. Animated by Ajiado and produced by Nitroplus and Shochiku, the 12-episode first season aired from January to March 2023. Created by Gen Urobuchi and directed by Masaya Fujimori, Revenger blends samurai action, moral ambiguity, and intricate plotting to craft a compelling narrative that stands out in the anime landscape. This article dives into the key elements of Revenger Season 1, its characters, themes, and critical reception, while avoiding spoilers as much as possible.

Plot Overview

Revenger follows Raizo Kurima, a skilled samurai whose life is shattered after being manipulated by his superiors into a devastating act of betrayal. After losing everything, Raizo crosses paths with the Revengers, a clandestine group of hitmen operating under the guise of a general store called “Ribenjiya.” Led by the enigmatic Usui Yuen, a lacquerware artist with a deadly secret, the Revengers take on contracts to exact vengeance for those who cannot fight for themselves. Raizo joins this eclectic crew, each member bringing their own unique skills and quirks to the table, as they navigate a web of assassinations, political intrigue, and personal vendettas in Nagasaki.

The story unfolds against a backdrop of historical Japan, with a focus on the opium trade and the clash between Eastern and Western influences. As Raizo and his newfound allies investigate a series of assassinations targeting the Satsuma clan, they uncover a conspiracy that threatens not only their lives but the soul of Nagasaki itself. The season is a slow-burn thriller, balancing intense swordplay with moments of introspection and moral questioning.

Characters

The strength of Revenger lies in its diverse and morally complex cast, each with distinct personalities and methods of delivering justice:

• Raizo Kurima (voiced by Junya Enoki): The protagonist, a master swordsman whose tragic past drives him to join the Revengers. Raizo’s journey is one of redemption and self-discovery as he grapples with the consequences of his actions.
• Usui Yuen (voiced by Yūichirō Umehara): The soft-spoken leader of the Revengers, a lacquerware artist who secretly orchestrates their operations. His preferred method of killing—suffocating targets with gold lacquer—reflects his enigmatic and ruthless nature.
• Teppa Murakami (voiced by Shunsuke Takeuchi): A former pirate turned doctor who treats the poor but harbors destructive impulses. His brute strength and heavy weaponry make him a formidable ally.
• Nio (voiced by Hisako Kanemoto): A young, androgynous assassin with an angelic appearance and a cruel streak, using kite strings laced with glass shards for silent kills.
• Soji (voiced by Shōta Hayama): A gambler with a love for money and alcohol, but a surprising compassion for those he cares about. His weapon of choice is a deck of hanafuda cards embedded with iron.

Supporting characters, such as Gerald Kanō, an underground Christian priest, and various antagonists tied to the opium trade, add depth to the narrative, highlighting the cultural and political tensions of the era.

Themes and Style

Revenger explores timeless themes of vengeance, loyalty, and the cost of justice. The series doesn’t shy away from the moral ambiguity of its characters’ actions, questioning whether revenge truly brings closure or perpetuates a cycle of violence. Raizo’s internal struggle and the Revengers’ unconventional methods underscore the complexity of their mission, making the show more than just a tale of retribution.

Visually, Revenger is striking, with detailed character designs and vibrant depictions of historical Japan. The animation captures the elegance of samurai duels and the grit of Nagasaki’s underbelly, blending traditional aesthetics with modern flair. Director Masaya Fujimori aimed to create a “cool” aesthetic that merges Eastern and Western influences, evident in the characters’ clothing and the show’s fusion of samurai culture with Christian and opium trade elements. The soundtrack, composed by Jun Futamata, enhances the tension and emotion, with the opening theme “Down Timer” by RetBear setting a moody tone.

Gen Urobuchi’s writing, known for its intricate plots and psychological depth (Psycho-Pass, Fate/Zero), shines through in Revenger’s clever twists and layered storytelling. The series balances action with quieter moments, allowing viewers to connect with the characters’ inner conflicts. Urobuchi himself noted the series’ focus on the characters’ thoughts and the traditional animation used to bring their world to life, aiming to deliver a “truly interesting” work that captivates audiences.

Reception

Revenger Season 1 received moderate praise for its unique premise and execution. On IMDb, it holds a 6.4/10 rating based on 526 user votes, reflecting a solid but not overwhelming response. Fans on platforms like MyAnimeList and Crunchyroll lauded the mature storytelling, animation quality, and intriguing characters, with some calling it a “hidden gem” for samurai and action fans. A user review on IMDb praised the show for its “great animation style” and “mature samurai tale,” noting that it respects viewers’ time with solid storytelling. However, some criticized its pacing, feeling the slow-burn approach didn’t always maintain momentum, and others wished for more episodes to flesh out the plot.

The series’ blend of historical drama, action, and moral complexity drew comparisons to Samurai Champloo and Jormungand, though some felt it didn’t reach the same heights. Its focus on a single season without immediate plans for a continuation left some viewers wanting more resolution, but the self-contained story still delivers a satisfying arc.

Availability

Revenger Season 1 is available for streaming on Crunchyroll with a subscription, offering both subbed and dubbed versions. It’s also accessible on Prime Video, with a promotional subscription rate of $1.99/month for the first two months, followed by $7.99/month. The series is rated TV-14, suitable for viewers 13 and older, due to its violent themes and mature content.

Final Thoughts

Revenger Season 1 is a compelling addition to the samurai anime genre, offering a fresh take on the revenge narrative with its richly drawn characters and atmospheric setting. While it may not reinvent the wheel, its blend of action, intrigue, and moral questioning makes it a worthwhile watch for fans of mature anime. Whether you’re drawn to the slick swordplay, the psychological depth, or the historical backdrop, Revenger delivers a bittersweet tale of vengeance that lingers long after the credits roll. If you’re looking for a show that respects your time and offers a mix of grit and heart, give Revenger a chance—you might just find it an absolute must-watch.

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