Forget New 'Ghost in the Shell' Series, Watch This 90%-Rated Classic That Aged Like a Fine Wine

A new series based on the cult classic Ghost in the Shell was recently released, prompting fans of Japanese animation to debate whether the original is worth rewatching.

While these debates continue, it's worth remembering another overlooked masterpiece: Ninja Scroll. Released in 1993, it remains a benchmark for mature, violent, and stylish action anime.

What Is 'Ninja Scroll' About?

A plague epidemic suddenly broke out in Yamashiro province. All of the residents flee, and Mochizuke, the leader of the neighboring samurai clan, sends the remnants of the Koga ninja clan under his command to investigate.

However, the intruders are instantly dispatched by strange creatures imbued with incredible power. Only the ninja girl Kagero manages to escape with the help of the wandering samurai ninja Jubei, who defeats one of the creatures.

Jubei has no idea, though, that he has killed not just a demon, but one of the Eight Devils of Kimon, a group of warriors with astonishing, superhuman powers. The remaining seven now consider him a mortal enemy.

'Ninja Scroll' Is a Visual Feast With Fight Choreography That Was Ahead of Its Time

Ninja Scroll is an anime that never gets old. Its animation is executed with incredible care and attention to detail and remains impressive and the fight scenes are like a dance, with every blow, jump, and death rendered with cinematic precision.

Although the movie doesn't have many battles, they are all memorable – about a dozen characters engage in conflict, each with something to show.

The final battles are particularly stylish. Kawajiri uses a limited color palette – black and red predominate in the burned village at sunset, while shades of orange are added to the black of the burning ship.

Although It Wasn't a Huge Hit, 'Ninja Scroll' Still Had a Significant Impact on Pop Culture

Ninja Scroll has had a huge impact on global pop culture. Its structure, in which the characters gradually progress through the story by uncovering details and dealing with demonic "bosses," is reminiscent of video game narratives.

It's no coincidence that Metal Gear Solid, a far more famous game than Kawajiri's work, features personal confrontations amidst a global conflict, similar skirmishes, and even individual enemies.

For instance, the third installment of Hideo Kojima's franchise features an antagonist who controls bees.

Three decades later, Ninja Scroll doesn't seem dated at all. Only the animation reveals its age, but this doesn't detract from the viewing experience, in fact, it adds to the anime's charm.

What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'Ninja Scroll'?

• Ninja Scroll has 90% from critics and 89% from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.

• On IMDb, the anime has a score of 7.8/10.

• On Letterboxd, Ninja Scroll scored 3.8/5.0.

Where to Watch 'Ninja Scroll'?

Ninja Scroll is available to stream on Crunchyroll.