This year’s summer anime season may have experienced an overflow of new titles, yet few have truly stood out. Among these, The Elusive Samurai emerges as a dazzling, underappreciated gem that commands attention. Crafted by CloverWorks, this period-setting anime deftly translates Yusei Matsui’s manga into an intriguing mix of historical adventure, decisive action, and unexpectedly well-placed humor. Set against the backdrop of the chaotic Kamakura period in Japan, the story explores the journey of Hojo Tokiyuki, a young noble whose remarkable talent isn’t his ability to fight enemies head-on but rather his unrivaled skill at retreating—an unusual gift that turns the traditional samurai narrative on its head.
While FX’s Shōgun continues to shine after its impressive Emmy wins, one might assume that the anime world would lean towards replicating its formula of honor, duty, and ambition to match. However, The Elusive Samurai takes a divergent path, playfully rejecting conventional expectations. The central character, Tokiyuki, lacks the typical attributes of a triumphant warrior—he doesn’t seek out combat or glory. Instead, his exceptional knack for fleeing becomes his key to survival, subverting and cleverly rewriting samurai traditions. Animated with intricacy, each of Tokiyuki’s evasive maneuvers is depicted with dexterity and agility that solidifies his role as one of anime’s most unorthodox heroes.
At its core, The Elusive Samurai is woven from the fabric of an archetypal underdog tale, yet it reshapes the narrative with Tokiyuki’s distinct capability. Within a society deeply entrenched in the stoicism and honor of medieval Japan, convincing audiences of such a skill could pose a challenge. Nonetheless, CloverWorks breathes life into each retreat, transforming the act of running away into a captivating spectacle, rivaling even the most intense sword fights on the screen. The way Tokiyuki navigates the chaos of warfare, eluding danger with grace and precision, transforms fleeing into an arresting visual experience.
Among the most significant elements distinguishing the anime is the breathtaking visual realm CloverWorks crafts to accompany Tokiyuki’s journey. The visual quality is, without exaggeration, awe-inspiring. The allure lies not merely in the striking color schemes or detailed settings, but the show’s playful use of textures and movement. Early episodes unfold in vivid illustrations, with rich reds, deep blues, and sweeping greens that seem to flow off the screen in a stunning blend of vibrant color. This visual tranquility is cleverly interrupted by sudden bursts of stark, violent action. Such sharp contrasts not only enhance the tension but underscore Tokiyuki’s precarious existence, highlighting that despite his talent for evasion, the harsh and ruthless reality of his world lingers ominously close.
The narrative thrust begins after the downfall of Tokiyuki’s family, the influential Hojo clan, following a devastating betrayal and subsequent annihilation. This setting could easily pave the way for typical revenge-driven plotlines, but the anime opts for a more whimsical and unexpected route. Instead of becoming a vengeance-seeking protagonist, Tokiyuki emerges as a witty and cunning character, relying more on intellect and agility than brute strength.
. This novel approach marks a refreshing departure from the somber, tragic heroes that frequent samurai stories, and the levity is further enhanced by an eclectic array of supporting characters.
In Tokiyuki’s orbit is Yorishige, a seer with dubious methods (voiced by the same actor who brought life to Gojo Satoru), providing Tokiyuki with prophetic insights and sardonic humor. Accompanying them is a band of “Elusive Warriors”—a misfit group whose quirks inject doses of humor even in the direst circumstances.
Yet, beneath the comedic layer lies the stark reality of The Elusive Samurai’s setting. The stakes remain palpably real, and the series does not shy away from depicting the cruel truths of its historical context. Scenes depicting massacres, mutilations, and executions deliver emotional blows amidst the colorful animations. The pilot episode itself begins with an idyllic portrayal of Tokiyuki’s life, only to sharply pivot into a graphic depiction of his family’s brutal massacre, encapsulating the show’s masterful tonal dissonance between lighthearted whimsy and grim undertones.
A daring artistic decision involves the varied art styles reflecting the shifting tones. At times, the visuals dazzle with lush, dreamlike qualities embracing surreal forms, particularly during Tokiyuki’s reflective escapes. Other moments capture the chaotic energy of battle, becoming decidedly sharp and unforgiving. An episode like “My Buddha” exemplifies this approach, presenting an intricate blend of changing forms and surrealism—an experimental triumph. Such creative moments elevate The Elusive Samurai beyond standard shounen storytelling, edging it toward what can be described as high art.
Aesthetically pleasing, the true brilliance of The Elusive Samurai lies in its conflict between historical antiquity and modern concepts. Though rooted in medieval Japan, it subtly comments on contemporary themes. Tokiyuki’s escapades challenge traditional notions of honor and heroism. His journey is one of survival, both physically and emotionally—understanding when to fight or retreat, waiting for opportune moments as circumstances evolve. This makes Tokiyuki one of the most engaging young anime protagonists in recent memory.
There’s a captivating charm in Tokiyuki’s simple, yet profound journey of self-preservation and eventual reclaiming of his rightful place in a tumultuous world. Though Tokiyuki is perpetually on the run, The Elusive Samurai races toward cultural prominence as a groundbreaking anime, poised to leap into contention for the most visually inventive show of 2024. Its stellar, genre-blending debut season suggests a promising future, with the potential to emerge as a contender for Anime of the Year.
The Elusive Samurai is available for streaming on Crunchyroll.
