A wonderful adaptation of a classic manga, Rurouni Kenshin: Origins will delight fans of the series and newcomers alike.

Directed by Keishi Otomo, the plot consists of the end of the Battle of Toba-Fushimi and the start of Japan’s open borders. Former assassin, known as Battousai the Manslayer, leaves the battle and abandons his sword. He then starts life anew as the ronin, Kenshin Himura (played by Takeru Satoh) who travels the country with his reverse bladed katana, vowing to never kill again. Kenshin finds a run down dojo run by Kaouru Kamiya (played by Emi Takei) and vows to help run it in return for lodging. Meanwhile, medicine maker, Megumi Takani (played by Yu Aoi) is being chased by the ruthless businessman Kanryu Takeda (played by Teruyuki Kagawa) to make opium. Megumi finds Kamiya Dojo and finds herself protected by both Kenshin and Kaoru.

The cinematography was interesting, as the camera moved around Kenshin during his fight scenes. It made the movie engaging as it showed various angles throughout the fight. Also the use of colors and saturations throughout different scenes, helped create the tones needed for them.

The writing wasn’t spectacular, and various emotional scenes overstayed their welcome, but it was engaging enough to where it wasn’t too much of a distraction. Kanryu was at some points very exaggerated, though I couldn’t tell if it was the dialogue or the acting. But minus a few things being changed or missing, it made for a stellar adaptation of the anime and manga. I really enjoyed how they made Kenshin’s usually bright orange hair more toned down into a dark brown and Kaoru’s purple hair black, as it made them more realistic.

The acting was also really well done. The characters have distinct personalities to begin with, and they translated well to live action. I will say though, that if someone were to jump in without knowing the characters at least somewhat, it might leave a weird impression.

I would suggest older kids and up would be able to watch it no problem. It does show violence (though nothing too graphic), and addiction. Younger kids might not get everything going on, and the character’s dilemmas. I would also suggest looking up the anime and manga beforehand so the viewer won’t be completely lost or caught off guard.

Even though it has some minor problems, it is an engaging and entertaining movie.

I give it 7 reverse katanas out of 10.