English Dub Review: The Elusive Samurai “The Boy Who Became a God”
Overview
Long after the bittersweet aftermath of a battle that was lost to enemy forces, Yorishige insinuates that Tokiyuki brings good luck to Suwa due to his long hair. Tokiyuki looks back on Yorishige’s care when he meets his son Tokitsugu and grandson Yoritsugu, the latter taking offense and expressing envy at Tokiyuki’s popularity. Yorishige reveals he has passed his duties as a god to Yoritsugu while pampering Tokiyuki. Yoritsugu challenges him to a showdown by playing a game of tag while hindering Tokiyuki’s progress with his supporters.
Our Take
Picking up from the previous episode, The Elusive Samurai takes a much lighter and more heartfelt approach following the Suwa Sect’s defeat. Despite the losses, everyone becomes more determined for the next battle, while Tokiyuki continues to grow from the experience. We’re also introduced to Yorishige’s grandson Yoritsugu, the future god of the shrine, who immediately comes across as an entitled little shit who is jealous of the attention Tokiyuki receives. Beneath that attitude, however, is a kid carrying far more responsibility than he should…
Tokiyuki and Yoritsugu’s game of tag makes for some hilarious moments, especially since the game mostly plays directly into Tokiyuki’s strengths. His incredible speed, agility, and ability to evade his pursuers make him the perfect target to chase, while also giving us another entertaining showcase of what makes him such a unique protagonist. It’s a lighter episode that still gives its characters room to breathe, with CloverWorks once again delivering gorgeous animation, particularly during the chase.
Overall, this is a hilarious and heartwarming change of pace that proves The Elusive Samurai can be just as entertaining without a major battle. Yoritsugu may be a little shit, but he’s also surprisingly endearing, while Tokiyuki remains an absolute menace whenever someone tries to catch him. Gorgeous animation, great character moments, and a game of tag perfectly suited to the Elusive Samurai what more could you ask for?
