Summary
ForShonen Jump’sThe Elusive Samurai, the consensus is generally in favor of it being seen as one of Summer 2024’s most surprising and beautiful hit anime debuts. The series is loaded with gorgeous animation, vibrant color palettes, and an eclectic cast of characters whose humorous energy undercuts the tremendous violence erupting in the historical Kenmu Restoration period. But the animation ofThe Elusive Samurairecently came under fire in episode #4 for its animation, with similar issues surfacing in episode #5.
The Elusive Samuraiwas a quick hit for its first episode, with its success resulting ina sudden heightened demand for the original mangaby Yusei Matsui. The series is praised for its visuals, including a filmic presentation and animation style that prioritizes movement, resulting in beautiful battles and a sense of joy in even the most chaotic segments.
Despite the series generating breakout characters like Suwa Yorishige,the use of CGI inThe Elusive Samurai’sanimation for episodes 4 and 5 is hard to overlook, even if it is justifiable.
The Elusive Samurai Uses Extensive CGI in Episodes #4 and #5
A Frequent Anime Fan Gripe Re-Emerges
For anybody troubled by the use of CGI, even if some3D CG anime is among the medium’s best,The Elusive Samuraiepisodes #4 and #5 using this technique might feel disappointing in light of its elegant traditional work.After all, the series handles all forms of movement with grace and creativity, such as the abstract rendition of Tokiyuki’s pulse-pounding fight with Muneshige Godaiin. But the nature of the archery challenge between Tokiyuki and Sadamune, taking place largely in an enclosed space on horseback with dogs as moving targets, it’s fairly understandable.
As Etienne Law on X explores the episode, there are good and bad points to this usage, as it’s fair to concede that this animation sequence might have been more demanding or even unreasonable if done traditionally. Good points raised about the animation include strong modeling and good renditions of POV shots, yet the cons include flat backgrounds and typically lifeless 3D motion.It’s jarring to see this sequence done this way, regarded by Law as “a horse kick in the face”, especially when seeing how good combat and motion can look in 3D CG like inKengan Ashura.
The Elusive Samurai Episode #5 Returns to Traditional Animation
CGI Did Not Overstay Its Welcome
Whether the 3D CG will return is anybody’s guess. Still, it was used for circumstances in which not simulating camera movement and shifting perspectives efficiently would have looked static or boring.The Elusive Samuraiepisode #5 ends the archery challenge and promptly returns to a traditional presentation,prompting the reasonable question of whether viewers can expect similar changes in the future.Still, it’s a relief for fans that this is still a rare occurrence for the series, instead of predominant, bad 3D CG causingBerserkto be considered best left unadapted to anime.
Given how much of the series features diverse, brilliant combat sequences, including a thrilling chase coming in episode #6, it’s fair to be apprehensive, especially for new fans just discovering the show.The Elusive Samuraiis good enough to pass the Three Episode Rule, if not ignore it, but moments like these are often jarring for fans. However, it’s a much better scenario than waiting through two whole seasons of theKingdomanime for things to improve. So,The Elusive Samurai’suse of 3D CG animation for now is at least a mild, passing annoyance.
