Inuyasha: the Final Act

When “Inuyasha” first premiered on Japanese airwaves on October 16, 2000, it was instantly hailed as the next animated sensation, thanks to it’s gorgeous animation and engaging plot. Regrettably, as the series progressed faster than its source material, more and more filler episodes began making their presence known, drowning out the story in the hopes of giving it’s manga (Japanese for comic) counterpart from which it was adapted more time to wrap up. With viewer interest waning and ratings slumping, “Inuyasha” was canceled after four years and 167 episodes. Now five years after it’s untimely end, with the manga completed, the series is making a return to resolve the plot points left dangling with a scheduled twenty six episode sequel titled “Inuyasha: the Final Act”.

“Inuyasha” follows the adventures of Japanese school girl Kagome Higurashi, as she travels back in time via an enchanted well to assist the dog demon Inuyasha collect jewel shards that when combined, grants it’s wielder any wish of their choosing. Along the way they encounter plenty of imaginative characters who join them on their quest such as the lecherous monk Miroku, a demon slayer named Sango, and Inuyasha's arrogant half-brother Sesshomaru. Standing in their way is Naraku, an immortal demon who also seeks to obtain the jewel shards for his own nefarious purposes.

“Inuyasha: the Final Act” picks up right where the original left off, with Naraku having the majority of the shards in his possession leaving Inuyasha and the others in pursuit of those remaining. Within the first ten minutes, every main character is given screen time, providing the audience a chance to reacquaint themselves. After that, the episode wastes little time in advancing the plot, thrusting the viewer into the heart of the action as Naraku’s master plan begins taking shape. Those who are new to these characters would be better suited starting from the previous series as no background history is explained.

Animation-wise, the quality is a step above it’s predecessor. Colors are vibrant and character designs polished. With a reduced number of episodes, its assumed the animation department was afforded more time, allowing greater attention to detail. Character movements are still a bit stilted but that is to be expected from a weekly animated show with no season breaks.

Aside from the art, everything else remains virtually the same. Music is recycled from the first series, which could be a plus or minus depending on your personal preference. The original voice actors make a welcome return, effortlessly resuming their roles.

It’s rare that a new beginning acts as a signal to the end. However, if the first episode was any indication, it will be an ending that was well worth the wait, with this sequel offering “Inuyasha” a return to form that hopefully serves as a hint of what’s to come. “Inuyasha: the Final Act" streams every Saturday on Shonensunday.com and Hulu.com.

You can watch them streamed online here.