Comics / Manga

The Yagyu Ninja Scrolls #5

By Avi Weinryb
December 30, 2008 - 21:45

Cover art courtesy of Del Rey Manga / Random House

A manga with the word 'ninja' in the title and a mature content rating usually requires two things; Violence and nudity. This book has both.

The Hori women all became widows when their husbands were murdered by the Seven Spears - a nasty group of violent thugs. The women have teamed with the blind Yagyu Jyubei Mitsuyoshi, an incredible sword prodigy. Together, they are an unstoppable fighting force. Using training, ingenuity, and a little luck, the ladies are able to sneak their way into an enemy compound.

The story is not exceptional - it is a straightforward revenge tale. But the humour is palpable and the well plotted action sequences make for an entertaining experience. When the Hori women impersonate concubines, appearing wearing nothing but masks, the vanquished enemies are supremely humiliated. The supposedly blind Mitsuyoshi asks that the women clothe themselves, and everyone is surprised by his observation. It turns out he can still see with his "mind's eye" and he appreciates a little modesty from his companions.

Little surprises and turns make this volume an involving read. There is no need to spoil any of the developments, but it should be noted that this manga takes a basic story and adds some welcome bells and whistles.

The artwork by Segawa is a joy. The artist has a good understanding of movement, which makes fighting sequences visually appealing and devastating. All characters, from the wolf Tenmaru, to the Hori women, are well executed and expressive. Backgrounds are often out of focus or non-existent, so no landscapes are visible. If this is a self-imposed limitation, it works well. It puts an emphasis on the foreground, which only adds to the intensity of this bloody tale.

Rating: 7 /10

Last Updated: August 31, 2023 - 08:12