Review: SHOGUN'S SHADOW offers something not truly seen in many Swordsplay/Samurai films. The movie uses an anime-esque style in its approach to the film, making it a live action cartoon, and it suits it perfectly.

For the record, the connections to anime are numerous: thousands of arrows, an evil governing body, a fallen hero, a unique blend of mercenary heroes, and even the fighting styles. Surprisingly, all these elements are blended perfectly to create an excellent movie that pleasantly surprises and even separates itself from the majority of action movies out there.

But moving off the anime connections, one will quickly enjoy the fight scenes in Shogun’s Shadow. Although they may not be as impressive by today’s CGI-crazed standards, they truly are cool. Making it more impressive is that every one of the mercenaries has their own unique style that plays out well. So, when you find yourself watching a 20-30 minute stretch of nonstop fighting, you won’t be bored by a repeat blend of action. In fact, you’ll probably find each scene just as impressive and unique as the last.

Going along with the unique fighting, the characters in Shogun’s Shadow are exceptional and engaging. The only drawback is that some of the characters’ personalities are underdeveloped, but this was probably due to time constraints (and may have proved to be a bore if they were developed). Sure Ken Ogata and Sonny Chiba’s characters are pretty standard, but that doesn’t mean they still don’t kick-ass. And both actors do an impressive job of doing the little things to develop their emotions and actions.

By far though, the best character is the man with the staff. This silent character may be cheesy but he is reminiscent of the Ninja Turtle’s Michelangelo- which is a most enjoyable connection.

Speaking of connections to other films, one would swear that several American movies must have ripped off certain scenes from Shogun’s Shadow. Whether it’s a battle near a river that is reminiscent of something out of LORD OF THE RINGS: FELLOWSHIP OF THE RING , or an end scene that looks eerily similar to YOUNG GUNS or BUTCH CASSIDY AND THE SUNDANCE KID (ok Butch and Co came out before it, but the fact remains) one will see the similarities.

However, despite all its enjoyable aspects, there are a few problems that end up almost crippling it. In one tense part, SHOGUN'S SHADOW suddenly gains an 80’s style Japanese pop soundtrack, which instantly turns the nerve-racking scene into a laughable one. The music, while hilarious, destroys that scene completely- and you’ll be glad if no one walks in on you watching the movie at that point (yes it’s that bad).

The ending also drags on way too long- throwing in back story that could have served the story better in an earlier spot. The end scene also turns into this Springer-type of shouting match where the audience knows the result about 10 minutes before it actually occurs. Unfortunately, it all builds up to a poor ending that leaves a bitter taste in ones mouth.

Looking back though, SHOGUN'S SHADOW is a great film that turned out to be surprisingly clever. If you want an introduction to Sonny Chiba (although he is barely in it) this may be a good start. Or if you obsess over anime, this may be a good film to ease yourself into the world of live action cinema. Heck, if you like American Westerns, or crazy characters or even movies in general I would recommend this. It sports a great cast, an interesting plot, and has more than enough action scenes to keep you entertained.