'Garouden: The Way of the Lone Wolf' Review: Adrenaline-pumping combat makes Netflix's anime series exciting

'Garouden: The Way of the Lone Wolf' follows a man who escapes his past and finds himself fighting in an underground combat tournament
UPDATED MAY 23, 2024
'Garouden: The Way of the Lone Wolf' follows Juzo Fujimaki's escape from his dark past (YouTube/@netflixasia)
'Garouden: The Way of the Lone Wolf' follows Juzo Fujimaki's escape from his dark past (YouTube/@netflixasia)

TOKYO, JAPAN: 'Garouden: The Way of the Lone Wolf' is streaming on Netflix starting Thursday, May 23, 2024.

Directed by Atsushi Ikariya, this Japanese anime series delves into the life of Juzo Fujimaki (Ryôta Takeuchi), a fighter seeking solace from his past, only to be drawn into an underground combat tournament where he faces off against some of the world's deadliest martial artists in the world. 

'Garouden: The Way of the Lone Wolf' stars Ryôta Takeuchi, Kagga Jayson, Kenjirô Tsuda, and Jun'ichi Suwabe, among other talented voice actors. Produced by NAZ, this anime promises a thrilling experience for viewers.

The series' creators meticulously build Juzo Fujimaka as a great fighter in the Takemiya martial arts style, enriching his character with a detailed and intricate background.

'Garouden: The Way of the Lone Wolf' is built on the redemption story of a reluctant fighter who finds himself unable to escape his past no matter how far he runs. Here is a detailed review of the Japanese anime show. 

High-octane action sequences elevate 'Garouden: The Way of the Lone Wolf'

A still from the series 'Garouden: The Way of the Lone Wolf' (YouTube/@netflix)
A still from the series 'Garouden: The Way of the Lone Wolf' (YouTube/@netflixasia)

'Garouden: The Way of the Lone Wolf' revolves around combat and action. The makers' design of combat stands as a testament to their mastery of animated storytelling.

It felt as though every punch thrown in the series carried its psychology. In Episode 2, a captivating sequence delves into the science of combat between martial artists, setting the stage for impactful payoffs in the final few episodes. 

The action does wonders when it is motivated by a story and psychology, prompting you to rally behind the characters, rooting for their victory against insurmountable odds.

Great character arcs and brilliant animation are the high points of 'Garouden: The Way of the Lone Wolf'

A still from the series 'Garouden: The Way of the Lone Wolf' (YouTube/@netflix)
A still from the series 'Garouden: The Way of the Lone Wolf' (YouTube/@netflixasia)

Establishing Juzo Fujimaki as a quiet lone wolf works well for the series. This approach adds an intriguing layer of mystery to his character, with details gradually unveiled with each successive episode

This element keeps viewers guessing, fueling their intrigue about Juzo's past and the events that shaped him into the person he is today.

The animation is executed flawlessly, capturing not only the drama of the action sequences but also the emotional moments in the series.

The animation of the wolf serves as a powerful motif throughout the show. From the captivating title sequence to the fast-paced narrative, the series creates an upbeat experience for the audience. 

Heavy metal music takes the series to a whole new level

A still from 'Garouden: The Way of the Lone Wolf' (YouTube/@netflix)
A still from 'Garouden: The Way of the Lone Wolf' (YouTube/@netflixasia)

Music plays a pivotal role in the series, with heavy metal tracks expertly utilized to complement the intense action and convey the inner turmoil of the protagonist.

Another thing that works for this series is the pacing and length of the episodes. The episodes are 20-25 minutes long on average and are focused on the plot without straying away from it. This makes the storytelling exciting and keeps the viewer craving for more. 

'Garouden: The Way of the Lone Wolf' Trailer



 

'Garouden: The Way of the Lone Wolf' is streaming on Netflix on Thursday, May 23, 2024.

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