In this episode of the Two Act Podcast, co-hosts Adi and Jon celebrate the 30th anniversary of the seminal 1993 anime film "Ninja Scroll," directed by Yoshiaki Kawajiri. They delve into the film's plot, which follows Jubei, a masterless ninja, as he navigates a conspiracy to overthrow the government in feudal Japan.

The hosts discuss the film's graphic violence, adult themes, and its significant impact on the anime genre and Western audiences. They also reflect on the film's memorable ninjas constantly tricking each other, stunning hand-drawn action sequences, and its lasting legacy in the world of anime.

Ninja Scroll is an achievement in anime storytelling rarely seen today however its impact has influenced generations of animes in the following decades. Packing relentless violence, beautiful action and mature adult themes that shocked and captivated viewers in the 90's who watched this film on VHS outside Japan.

CHAPTERS

Introduction to the Episode (00:00:01)

Film Synopsis (00:01:28)

Influence of the Film (00:02:52)

Opening Thoughts on Violence (00:02:56)

Director's Impact (00:05:26)

Narrative Structure (00:08:04)

Character Analysis: Jubei (00:08:19)

Female Character: Kagero (00:10:50)

Spoiler Warning (00:11:35)

Discussion on Disturbing Scenes (00:12:04)

Jubei's Heroic Rescue (00:13:09)

Kagero's Unique Ability (00:14:29)

Relationship Dynamics (00:15:30)

Director's Challenges (00:16:44)

Villains and Action Set Pieces (00:18:12)

Stylized Action Scenes (00:20:18)

Film's Original Structure (00:21:47)

Pacing and Engagement (00:23:03)

Film's Legacy (00:24:17)

The Villain Variety (24:46)

Shocking Scenes and Corruption (25:31)

Character Predictions (27:12)

Voice Acting Insights (27:35)

Dub Quality Discussion (28:54)

Character Design and Animation (29:59)

Pacing and Storytelling (31:18)

Surface-Level Story (34:34)

Final Confrontation (35:00)

Cultural Impact of Ninja Scroll (42:09)

Graphic Violence Justification (44:17)

Introduction to Cinema and Anime (00:46:05)

Anime Consumption (00:46:57)

Current Anime Trends (00:47:17)

Demon Slayer Critique (00:48:20)

Ninja Scroll Overview (00:50:32)

Censorship in Anime (00:52:49)

Censorship of Ninja Scroll (00:54:00)

Character Dynamics in Ninja Scroll (00:57:37)

Final Thoughts on Ninja Scroll (01:00:13)

Next Episode Preview: Deadpool and Wolverine (01:02:23)

Find us on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wmybr0XqzY4

Find us on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/2-a-c-t-podcast/id1746134203