Rurouni Kenshin: Kyoto Disturbance - Episode 2 Review

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The second episode of Rurouni Kenshin: Kyoto Disturbance picks up the pace and introduces one of the series' fan-favorite characters, Misao. It's great to see her again—Misao's energy and humor bring a refreshing dynamic to the show. Her antics, whether robbing thieves or playfully teasing Kenshin, add levity to the otherwise serious tone of Kenshin's journey to Kyoto. The moment she tried to sell Kenshin’s sakabatou (reverse-blade sword) had me laughing out loud, proving once again why I missed how funny this girl can be.

Misao's charm shines even brighter in this remake, thanks to Aya Yamane's stellar voice acting. She captures the spunky, mischievous essence of Misao while maintaining her sincerity and strength. It's almost as if Riho Sugiyama, the original voice actor, never left. This casting decision definitely enhances Misao's likability and makes her debut in this arc all the more impactful.

Direction and Pacing

What really stood out in this episode was the improved direction. Compared to the more straightforward and slow-paced first season set in Tokyo, the Kyoto Arc feels much more refined. The direction, from the camera angles to the flow of the story, feels tighter and more purposeful. The action scenes, especially those involving Aoshi and the false monks, were beautifully animated, showcasing the fluid combat sequences that Rurouni Kenshin is known for.

Aoshi's introduction back into the story was powerful. His dark and brooding presence is juxtaposed against Misao's lightheartedness, offering a well-balanced dynamic between the characters. His silent determination and skill with his dual kodachi give us a glimpse of what lies ahead for Kenshin in this arc. The tension in the scenes involving Aoshi makes it clear that his rivalry with Kenshin is far from over.

Character Dynamics

The episode cleverly shifts between Kenshin's journey and the reintroduction of major characters like Aoshi and Shishio. Kenshin’s interactions with Misao are filled with humor, but there's an underlying tension as he knows the fate of her beloved Oniwaban group. The guilt he carries is subtle but palpable. Misao’s loyalty to the Oniwaban and her unwavering belief that they are still alive create a bittersweet undertone to her character arc, as viewers know the painful truth she’s yet to discover.

As for Kenshin, his good-hearted nature continues to shine through. The scene where he returns the stolen money and chastises Misao for her antics shows how, despite everything, his principles remain firm. But I can't help but chuckle at the irony—he's so concerned with returning stolen goods, yet he didn’t hesitate to destroy the village's bridge in the previous episode. A small misstep for Kenshin, perhaps, but one that adds a layer of complexity to his character.

Music and Atmosphere

However, the episode isn’t without its flaws. The original Rurouni Kenshin anime had an exceptional soundtrack that perfectly captured the atmosphere of the Meiji Era, shifting from traditional Japanese tones to more militarized, Western orchestral pieces. Unfortunately, this remake's OST feels lackluster in comparison. The music in the fight scenes, while serviceable, lacks the emotional depth and intensity that the original had. Hopefully, future episodes will explore more variety in the soundtrack to better capture the shifting moods of this arc.

Final Thoughts

Overall, Episode 2 of Rurouni Kenshin: Kyoto Disturbance is a marked improvement in both pacing and direction. Misao’s introduction, Aoshi’s menacing presence, and the continued focus on Kenshin’s internal struggles set the stage for an exciting arc. If the Kyoto Arc continues on this trajectory, it could easily surpass the Tokyo Arc in terms of storytelling and character development.

Misao's lively personality and Aoshi's cold, calculating demeanor create a fascinating contrast, and I can't wait to see how their stories intersect with Kenshin’s. Despite the minor issue with the soundtrack, this episode left me eager for more—and with major threats like Shishio looming, the stakes are only going to get higher from here.

Rating: 8/10

This episode brings the Kyoto Arc to life with great character moments, improved direction, and exciting setup for future episodes. Misao is a joy to watch, and Aoshi's return adds a layer of tension and intrigue. Here's hoping the next episode continues the momentum!

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