The second part of the Rurouni Kenshin series, entitled Rurouni Kenshin Part II: Kyoto Inferno, takes the show to a new level of high stakes and grandeur as it addresses the overwhelming price of heroism and sacrifice. The main conflict of the movie, the fight between Kenshin Himura and the lethal and charismatic Makoto Shishio, seems a struggle not only to earn personal redemption, but also to the salvation of a country that was on the brink of collapse. The fanaticism of Shishio to destroy the Meiji government creates a new layer of danger that is threatening and leaves Kenshin to deal with his past and the evil side of his determination.
The film is visual and immersive at the same time. The fight scenes are gutal and well choreographed focusing on the harsh reality of war and the peace that Kenshin struggles to keep. The camera shots reflect the gloomy, ominous feeling of the city of Kyoto, which contrasts with the scenes of hope and persistence. The score also highlights the emotional nature of the story, making the feeling of immediacy and sacrifice even more intense. The character supporting the main characters and in particular Saito and Kaoru, are present to provide depth and complexity in the context of the fight being about more than just a lone man, but instead, the fight is about defending the ideals and those that are dear to us.
The most striking part was the internal conflict that Kenshin has to face as he tries to resist the allure of non-violence in the light of such tremendous evil. I was deeply impressed by the film where heroism is depicted as a weight, one that needs absolute fearlessness. The chapter in question, Kyoto Inferno, is an emotionally charged, powerful piece of work that examines the true definition of sacrifice and makes the viewer question the thin line between the justice and vengeance. It is an eye-catching emotional episode that provides the series with an added layer of exploration of redemption and moral determination.
