Okay, let's talk Inuyasha movies. Specifically, Swords of an Honorable Ruler. You know, the one with the really, REALLY long title. It's the third movie, in case you lost count.
The Setup: Family Drama (and Swords!)
So, Inuyasha discovers his dad, the great Inu no Taisho, had not one, but three swords. Talk about leaving things cluttered! These aren't your average butter knives, either.
Apparently, each sword has a special power. And wouldn't you know it, they're all kinda dangerous and nobody knows how to handle them. Drama!
Tessaiga's Siblings: So Much Power!
We've got the Tenseiga, the sword of Heaven, which Sesshomaru uses to revive the dead (sometimes). Then there's the Sou'unga, a sword of chaos. It feeds on anger and wants to take over the world.
Sou'unga is dramatic. Very dramatic. Honestly, it should star in its own soap opera.
And then there's Tessaiga, the sword our boy Inuyasha wields. The one that can destroy anything, if you yell its name loud enough. Good times.
Unpopular Opinion Time
Here's where things get spicy. I think, and I know some of you might disagree, this is the best Inuyasha movie. Gasp!
I love how it delves into the family dynamic. Inuyasha trying to live up to his father's legacy? Sesshomaru grappling with his own issues? It's all gold.
Sure, the plot is a little convoluted. But that's par for the course with Inuyasha, right?
It's also really fun to watch Inuyasha and Sesshomaru begrudgingly work together. They are the ultimate frenemies. It reminds me of my relationship with my own brother. Though, thankfully, no world-ending swords are involved.
The Action Is Top-Notch
Let's be honest, the fight scenes in this movie are amazing. Seeing Inuyasha learn to control the Tessaiga is always a thrill.
Sesshomaru is as stoic and powerful as ever. His battles are graceful and devastating at the same time. What a king.
The final showdown with Sou'unga is epic. Explosions, yelling, sword clashes... It's got everything you could want.
Why It Works (For Me)
This movie does a great job of balancing action with character development. We get to see Inuyasha grow as a person (or, you know, a half-demon).
The themes of family, responsibility, and overcoming your past are all well-executed. Plus, the animation is gorgeous, even by today's standards.
And, let's face it, who doesn't love a good "chosen one" storyline? Inuyasha is the ultimate underdog, and we're always rooting for him.
Maybe it's the nostalgia talking. Maybe I just have a soft spot for angsty half-demons with giant swords. But Swords of an Honorable Ruler is a winner in my book.
So, next time you're looking for an Inuyasha movie to watch, give this one a try. You might just be surprised at how much you enjoy it. Or you might hate it. Either way, let me know what you think!
Just don't yell at me if you disagree. Sou'unga might hear you.