Review: Bright: Samurai Soul

 

 

Overview:

Long ago, a world wrought with peril and constant war was finally freed by an all-encompassing dazzling light. A new era of peace reigns over the land until a young elf, Sonya, comes into the possession of a magical wand sheds light on the darkness of the world.  

Sonya enlists the help of two competing warriors, Raiden, an orc searching for a better path, and Izou, a one-eyed ronin tortured by his past and hoping to discover purpose. Their job is to escort Sonya and her wand north to the land of the elves. Unfortunately, a powerful organisation, Inferni, will stop at nothing to capture the magical wand and restore their Dark Lord, who will rule all of creation.

 

Our Take:

In 2017, Netflix released a live-action feature film starring Will Smith titled Bright. The urban fantasy film explored an alternate reality in which humans and mythical creatures coexist. Subsequently, Bright has become one of Netflix’s most popular movies. It was only a matter of time until this world would be explored further.

Bright: Samurai Soul is a direct anime spin-off of the fantasies developed in the 2017 film. However, this new full-length animation explores the parallel history of ancient Japan. The land shared by humans, orcs, elves, and the like are plentiful and live peacefully amongst one another, as opposed to the differences accentuated in the original film. What is consistent is the overwhelming power of magical wands and the Brights who can use them.

The 80-minute anime manages to incorporate further themes established by the live-action predecessor. Chiefly, the story partners a human and an orc together for a mission despite their apparent differences. The concept is a vessel for exploring racial divides and irresponsible stereotypes. Especially when defining the brutish orcs as compassionate and empathetic creatures.

Nevertheless, this spin-off moves at a much slower pace and offers a much more predictable plot than its inspiration. The attempts at developing the legends of the world make the story more convoluted than necessary. Exposition makes up a significant portion of the watching experience, taking away from the more entertaining scenes and imagery.

The 2D computer-generated animation offers some impressive visuals. Especially considering that the camera is always in a fluid motion. When action sequences finally make an appearance in the action film, they are striking and powerful. Combined with the myriad of unique characters and creatures, there are some exciting moments to watch.

Unfortunately, it is easy to get lost amongst the overabundance of lore. Similar criticisms were often made when Bright was first released in 2017. Seemingly, Netflix is doubling down on expanding this universe and attempting to make it a thing. A fact that is more evident considering a live-action sequel is in our immediate future.

It is uncertain how many viewers will be on board for exploring this complex fantasy with an anime spin-off. Although, for the casual Netflix fan, Bright: Samurai Soul is easily skippable. None of what is established adds further explanation to the live-action original. As such, it is likely not a required watch for the inevitable sequel. And considering this movie moves at a snail’s pace between the few action sequences, it is unlikely worth the invested time.