Thursday, November 6, 2008

Afro Smurai



In some sort of parallel universe, Japan is at once feudalistic and advanced technologically. Here samurai battle each other with everything from kitanas to RPGs for the right to wear a headband that would signify them as holding the rank of "#2". When in possession of this title, the man becomes marked- for only he with the #2 head band can challenge #1. Once #1 is attained the warrior is essentially untouchable, god-like, unless #2 can track him down and defeat him. This is a classic tale of vengeance. It follows Afro in his quest to avenge the death of his father, who was #1, at the hands of Justice, currently #1.

Adapted from manga comic book into five part mini series, this stellar hybrid of hip-hop and Japanese culture beautifully animated and features the vocal talent of Samuel L. Jackson (Afro) and Ron Perlman (Justice). It's directed by Fuminori Kizaki and the original sound track was produced by the RZA, an obvious choice for a project of this. nature.

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