Song Of The Samurai Episode 1 Review: HBO’s Adaptation Captures The Heart Of Shogun & The Soul Of Anime

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HBO’s new series, Song of the Samurai, has begun with a strong first episode. It’s a fast-paced historical drama, or jidaigeki, that still captures the feel of anime. The show is based on the manga Chiruruan: Shinsengumi Requiem by Umemura Shinya, the creator of Record of Ragnarök. While the story was previously adapted into an anime, Song of the Samurai promises to be the most complete version of Umemura’s work yet.

With shows like FX’s Shogun and Netflix’s Blue Eye Samurai and Last Samurai Standing sparking renewed interest in historical Japanese dramas (known as jidaigeki), HBO now enters the scene with Song of the Samurai. These dramas typically focus on the samurai culture of Japan before the Meiji Era.

The first episode of Song of the Samurai clearly draws inspiration from shows like Shogun. The series centers on Hijikata Toshizo, a historical figure who was a key leader in the Shinsengumi, a special police force dedicated to protecting the ruling shogunate during Japan’s Edo period. The story begins with Toshizo as a young man – a street fighter who sells medicine and is determined to get stronger. He eventually joins the Rennet Rishin-ryu’s Shieikan Dojo, where he finds a sense of belonging with Kondo Isami and the other students.

The characters in Song of the Samurai are on their way to becoming the famous Shinsengumi, but the first episode focuses on their beginnings. We see them building relationships as they train and compete at the Kobusho military academy. The episode is packed with exciting, well-choreographed battles, continuing the recent resurgence of historical Japanese dramas like Shogun while staying true to the spirit of the original manga.

Song Of The Samurai Continues The Jidaigeki Revival Without Sacrificing Its Anime Roots

One of the first things you’ll notice about Song of the Samurai is how realistic it looks. Many anime adaptations are visually flashy, with costumes and hairstyles that mimic the original artwork. This series takes a different approach, opting for a more serious and dramatic style similar to historical Japanese dramas like Shogun. This helps create a believable depiction of 19th-century Japan, reminding viewers that while Song of the Samurai is inspired by a manga, it’s rooted in actual history and characters.

The first episode of Song of the Samurai feels very authentic and gives the series a solid foundation. However, what’s really interesting is how it uses many familiar anime and manga clichés. The main character, Toshizo, is a typical proud hero who’s determined to improve and become stronger, relying on his willpower to overcome his weaknesses. He’s joined by other characters you’ve likely seen before: the stoic strongman, the smart and studious type, a gifted young fighter, and a hot-headed teen with a softer side—it hits all the classic anime notes.

The costumes in Song of the Samurai also show this change. The over-the-top hairstyles and vibrant colors have been made more realistic, helping the characters feel more believable. However, those familiar with Chiruruan: Shinsengumi Requiem will still easily recognize the characters, as the design team carefully preserved the spirit of the original manga and anime looks.

Many beloved anime series don’t easily work when turned into live-action because their exaggerated characters, humor, and emotional moments can feel excessive. Often, adaptations try to be more serious by adopting a more dramatic, Shogun-style tone, losing what made the original anime special. However, the first episode of Song of the Samurai demonstrates that it is possible to create a realistic historical drama (jidaigeki) without sacrificing the enjoyment and energy of the anime it’s based on.

Non-Stop Action & Hybrid Fight Choreography Are The Real Crowning Glory Of Song Of The Samurai

While the political intrigue and strong sense of camaraderie are definite strengths of Song of the Samurai, the show really focuses on delivering exciting, over-the-top action sequences. Set during a turbulent and politically complex period in Japanese history, the series stands out because it doesn’t dwell on lengthy political discussions. The first episode, in particular, is almost entirely dedicated to intense, one-on-one sword fights.

The first episode of Song of the Samurai quickly delivers the action fans are waiting for. The story unfolds in sections spanning several years, focusing on how the characters grow through intense battles. Because of this, the episode is more about exciting fights than a complex plot, making it perfect for viewers who want non-stop action.

The fighting in Song of the Samurai stands out. Old samurai films, known as chambara, often featured dramatic, almost dance-like battles that weren’t necessarily realistic. But as this style of film has become popular again, the fight scenes have started to resemble the fast-paced action we see in Hollywood movies today.

Song of the Samurai leans into fast-paced, complex fight scenes with constant action. However, each fight in the first episode still feels like a nod to classic samurai films. The choreography isn’t just about fighting; it’s dramatic and theatrical, almost like a violent dance between opponents. This creates a fascinating blend of styles that both demonstrates and pays tribute to how Japanese historical fiction has developed over time.

The first episode of HBO’s Song of the Samurai is packed with action, suggesting the rest of the series will be just as visually exciting. Currently, Toshizo and his fellow members of the Shieikan Dojo are still finding their role in the coming revolution, and their fate within the Shinsengumi remains uncertain. After such a strong start, it’s clear this historical adventure, inspired by anime, will only become more compelling as these famous figures grow and develop.

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2026-05-09 19:19