Rating summary
| Movie |  | 5.0 |
| Video |  | 3.5 |
| Audio |  | 4.0 |
| Extras |  | 3.0 |
| Overall |  | 4.5 |
Samurai Champloo: Complete Collection Blu-ray Movie Review
Samurai Champloo gets a must-own steelbook edition
Reviewed by Neil Lumbard July 17, 2020
A brilliant anime masterpiece, Samurai Champloo is a perfect blend of action, adventure, comedy, and hip-hop beats. One could tell the series was destined for greatness from the opening title cards: a slick logo emblazoned on a spinning vinyl. The series stars Fuu (a brave and free-spirited girl accompanied by her flying squirrel side-kick, Momo), Mugen (a hot-tempered wanderer who exudes a cool charm), and Jin (an expert swordsman): a trio of unlikely allies. Joining forces, the team is unstoppable.
The group goes on a unique odyssey in search of the mythic samurai who smells of sunflowers. What mystery lies ahead for them? From acclaimed director Shinichirō Watanabe (Cowboy Bebop), the anime is a truly creative gem that absolutely must be seen by any and all anime fans. Featuring a eclectic mix of hip-hop music by Nujabes, Tsutchie, Fat Jon, and Force of Nature, the series was a genuine blast of energy from start to finish. A non-stop thrill ride that would never let go.
A samurai mix-tape in style.
For more information on Samurai Champloo, please refer to the review by my colleague Jeffrey Kauffman.
Samurai Champloo: Complete Collection Blu-ray Movie, Video Quality
For more information on the video presentation, please refer to the review by my colleague Jeffrey Kauffman.
Samurai Champloo: Complete Collection Blu-ray Movie, Audio Quality
For more information on the audio presentation, please refer to the review by my colleague Jeffrey Kauffman.
Samurai Champloo: Complete Collection Blu-ray Movie, Special Features and Extras
NEW to the release is a special collectors edition steelbook. The limited edition packaging is truly gorgeous in hand and feels all the more special to behold. The artwork features the trio of heroes: samurai Jin, vagabond Mugen, and kick-ass girl, Fuu. The colorful and bright art looks amazing. Collectors hoping for a special edition of the beloved anime classic have something special to appreciate here.
The on-disc supplements remain the same. For more information on the bonus features, please refer to the review by my colleague Jeffrey Kauffman.
Samurai Champloo: Complete Collection Blu-ray Movie, Overall Score and Recommendation
Samurai Champloo remains one of the best anime series produced: director Shinichirō Watanabe (Cowboy Bebop) was at the top of his game when he produced this energetic, adventurous, and slick series. Having written coverage on the series original DVD releases, it feels like a joy to revisit the anime all these years later for a special Blu-ray steelbook edition. A true anime classic deserves a collectors edition and this one fits the bit perfectly. With outstanding animation, great characters, memorable music, and samurai-action, Samurai Champloo is essential. Highly recommended.
