Samurai Champloo [TV]

After accidentally killing a government official’s son in a fight, Mugen and Jin are seized, and are sentenced for execution. Fuu successfully saves the two warriors, and hires them to accompany her during her search for a samurai “who smells of sunflowers” which may lead to her father.

The story follows this trio’s journey through a hip-hop influenced Edo-era Japan, and the challenges they encounter along the way.

About the Show

Samurai Champloo is an anime adaptation of the action adventure manga series written by Masaru Gotsubo. The anime series was directed by Shinichiro Watanabe, who was also responsible for directing the acclaimed Cowboy Bebop series. Produced by studio Manglobe, Samurai Champloo aired a total of 26 episodes (divided into two seasons) between May 19, 2004 and March 19, 2005. Grasshopper Manufacture developed a PS2 videogame based on the series, entitle Samurai Champloo: Sidetracked.

Characters

Mugen (His name also means “infinite or without limit” in Japanese.)
Formerly a pirate, Mugen is a brash vagabond who spends most of his time picking fights and causing trouble. On top of his rude nature, he is a womanizer, gambler, and a sore loser. Just like his personality, Mugen’s fighting style is unconventional, erratic, and unpredictable, closely resembling the moves of breakdance. His weapon of choice is also unique, a curved blade with two prongs, which he usually carries on his back. At the end of this weapon’s scabbard is a small tanto, concealed for emergency situations.

Jin (His name also means “benevolence” in Japanese.)
Unlike Mugen, Jin is a calm and disciplined ronin, who is on the run after killing his master in self-defense. He wears ornamental eyeglasses, and carries himself in a stoic manner similar to a samurai from the Tokugawa era. Being formally trained in kenjutsu and star pupil of a prominent dojo, Jin’s fighting