Blue Eye Samurai

Available on Netflix

There’s plenty to like about this striking animated series from the husband-and-wife team of Amber Noizumi and Michael Green. Set during the 17th century, Blue Eye Samurai provides an absorbing insight into the history of Japan and specifically its Edo period, during which the country was ruled by the Tokugawa shogunate and had closed its borders.

The backstory of the show’s protagonist, Mizu (Maya Erskine), is born out of that isolationist foreign policy. Her mother was raped and killed by one or more of the only four white men left in Japan, and the blue eyes she consequently inherits makes her a target for discrimination. After being schooled by a blind swordsmith, Mizu becomes a bushi (warrior) and embarks on a quest to avenge her mother’s death.

On face value, Blue Eye Samurai is an entertainingly gory affair that keeps you on the edge of your seat for much of its eight-episode run, courtesy of its frenetic and inventive fight sequences and kick-ass lead character. However, the show’s true value can be found in its subtle analysis of societal divide and how convention can see those who are perceived as something ‘other’ - be that because of their ethnicity, gender, social standing, or disability - shunned by the masses. Noizumi and Green’s examination of sexual politics is particularly compelling and distinguishes the show as being more than a mere visual delight, although Blue Spirit’s stunning 2D/3D hybrid animation is definitely a key selling point (the 2.35:1 aspect ratio used for the final episode is befitting of the big screen).

With Erskine in slick form and Brenda Song, George Takei, Kenneth Branagh, and Masi Oka standing out amongst the supporting cast, Blue Eye Samurai has the exciting air of an epic world taking shape, which makes news of its impending second season all the more welcome.