Some people might say that the first Azumi is a straight action flick which can and should be seen for its dazzling displays of sword play, but, and that's a big but, what glued the visuals together in the first installment was the characters: The little group of young assassins who went out on their mission. Azumi 2 really, really miss this little group. Our doe eyed heroine is even missing her famous smile and the reason for this - a seemingly ghost from the past - unfortunately leaves her with a facial expression, not unlike those who c's her draw her sword, but ain't quite sure if they're to die or not. That apart, Azumi 2 is worth watching: Especially if you dig the action scenes in the first one, and this time, a trio of really cool opponents has been thrown in, which kind of reminded me of the trio of deadly assassins in sword of vengeance, so if you liked them, check out Azumi 2! But, the bottom line is that Azumi 2 is missing something in order to be as good as the first one: Maybe it has been cut, and maybe some day a directors cut version will surface to set the record straight, but until then: you will love it if you're in it for the action, but if you're like me, you will only like it, cause swords are not enough!
33 Reviews
Azumi refined
siderite10 June 2006
This can't be considered a separate film, it's just part 2. It starts exactly where it left off, without any explanations or flashbacks on how it starts. I can only imagine how confused someone can be watching this movie without seeing part 1. The actors are the same, the extras are the same (to the ridiculous point of having a friendly swordsman be interpreted by the same actor that played a killed foe in the first part of the movie AND being credited in the cast with the same character name).
However, the plot is more refined, it gets into the psychology of the people involved, the fights are more realistic, the directing is slightly better. In a few words it's exactly how Azumi 1 should have been. Of course, this doesn't make it a masterpiece. The same lame excuses for action and the same Japanese clichés are met all over the place. The only thing new to this part is the implementation of a rival clan of assassins, each specialized in a certain way, thus entering the more popular arena of super-strong ninja fighters. Also guns are used more, but with the same insane inefficiency as in the first part.
Oh, and for people reading this without seeing part 1 OR reading my super cool comment on the first part :) this is a movie about a cute diminutive young girl who is the best assassin ever, but still manages to have a conscience, dreams, friends, like any other normal human being. Sorta like Santa.
However, the plot is more refined, it gets into the psychology of the people involved, the fights are more realistic, the directing is slightly better. In a few words it's exactly how Azumi 1 should have been. Of course, this doesn't make it a masterpiece. The same lame excuses for action and the same Japanese clichés are met all over the place. The only thing new to this part is the implementation of a rival clan of assassins, each specialized in a certain way, thus entering the more popular arena of super-strong ninja fighters. Also guns are used more, but with the same insane inefficiency as in the first part.
Oh, and for people reading this without seeing part 1 OR reading my super cool comment on the first part :) this is a movie about a cute diminutive young girl who is the best assassin ever, but still manages to have a conscience, dreams, friends, like any other normal human being. Sorta like Santa.
Not like the first one but still worth seeing.
athena2419 August 2005
Yesterday I saw the fist Azumi and it impressed me so much that today I went to see the second one.
I still think that the movie by itself is good. It just doesn't lift to the height of the first one. It's seems that many had expectations about this one that doesn't came through, but if to look at it without comparing to the fist one, Azumi 2 is fine.
The plot is OK. More flaws than in the first one but it's not the problem of this film. It is not as appealing as the first one, but still interesting and never boring. I'm a little disappointed that Kanbei (my favorite character from the first movie) is underused.
The positive thing about this movie, is that it keeps the main cast from the first Azumi (specially when I saw them one after the other).
fights are great, and pretty much on the same level as in Azumi.
The ninja characters are very interesting. They have new tricks and new weapons, and add a lot to the movie.
But the movie has two major flaws: One is the character of Azumi and Nagara, which seems to be less determined in their mission and find other things more important ( like love or quiet living), one thing i could never expect after the ending of the first Azumi, and even less after their swearing to Tenkai in continuing the mission.
The second flaw doesn't concern the first Azumi, and it is in the dialog's of the characters. They say things that are obvious ,make them look stupid. They also look more dramatic (which is far above most of Chinese Kong Fu movies conversations but still reminds them).
Overall i think Azumi2 is a likable samurai movie and better than most in this category.
I still think that the movie by itself is good. It just doesn't lift to the height of the first one. It's seems that many had expectations about this one that doesn't came through, but if to look at it without comparing to the fist one, Azumi 2 is fine.
The plot is OK. More flaws than in the first one but it's not the problem of this film. It is not as appealing as the first one, but still interesting and never boring. I'm a little disappointed that Kanbei (my favorite character from the first movie) is underused.
The positive thing about this movie, is that it keeps the main cast from the first Azumi (specially when I saw them one after the other).
fights are great, and pretty much on the same level as in Azumi.
The ninja characters are very interesting. They have new tricks and new weapons, and add a lot to the movie.
But the movie has two major flaws: One is the character of Azumi and Nagara, which seems to be less determined in their mission and find other things more important ( like love or quiet living), one thing i could never expect after the ending of the first Azumi, and even less after their swearing to Tenkai in continuing the mission.
The second flaw doesn't concern the first Azumi, and it is in the dialog's of the characters. They say things that are obvious ,make them look stupid. They also look more dramatic (which is far above most of Chinese Kong Fu movies conversations but still reminds them).
Overall i think Azumi2 is a likable samurai movie and better than most in this category.
Azumi to the bone
scobbah14 October 2005
Wow, now that's some neat action. Azumi is back and this movie turned out to be really great for being a follow up. I agree with many people in that the first piece is better than this one, but this one is still great. I felt that this piece really tied up the plot well, by adding this one together with the first movie. Here we get the pleasure to meet a bunch of new character, but they've also chosen to keep the same actors from the first movie - which came as a great surprise to me as too many plots which develops into series have a vital problem with keeping the actors from the first movie. If you like the first Azumi movie you will definitely like this one, and if you're yet not an Azumi fan you will most likely be one in the near future if you choose to experience the series. A warning though, you should really see the first movie first because I can't imagine myself even getting half of the plot here if I wouldn't have seen the first one before. Azumi to the bone! 7/10!
Moody and entertaining swordplay sequel, uneven in places.
Zombified_66021 April 2006
Warning: Spoilers
I've heard a lot of people say that watching Azumi 2 was something akin to watching a mate play Golden Axe, just a long string of seemingly barely interconnected fights. In a way, I wish it had been like that. It would have been much more punchy, and seemed less overlong. Although there are things worthy of commendation in Azumi 2, in comparison to it's predecessor it's badly paced, packed full of largely unnecessary dialogue, and suffers from uninspired, pedestrian action direction.
OK, that's the flaws out the way. Azumi 2 introduces some interesting new characters in the shape of a clan of rival ninjas, and the best bits of the film all involve these characters in one way or another. The fights with them are the most satisfying in the movie, and they all have their own unique fighting styles, which makes them a much needed stab of artistic flair. It's unfortunate they aren't the main villains, as the movie could have benefited from more scenes with them.
Secondly, heroine Azumi is again powerfully played by Aya Ueto, who is as convincing as before, pretty much carrying the film. The acting from the rest of the cast is pretty straightforward, not awful but not Oscar material either, but Ueto's performance is so good that 80% of the time I didn't care that I was starting to nod off during any scenes without her.
What's new about Azumi 2, the new characters, different settings etc, they're great, and they're enough to get an Azumi fan through this and keep them entertained. However, in any familiar territory the original outstrips this second part effortlessly. The fights are often dull, and new director Kaneko has unwisely decided to go for quantity over quality, so where Azumi only has, say, four or five major battles but they're all big set pieces, Azumi 2 has lots of fights, but they're all over within seconds. In particular the final fight is so short as to be intensely aggravating. Also, overall direction isn't a patch on Kitamura's original, with most scenes feeling unintentionally rigid and inorganic, though it has to be said Kitamura's a very hard act to follow.
Still, despite this, it's not a bad movie, and it'll keep you entertained at the very least. It's a fairly clinical 'bigger, louder, faster...but not as good' sequel, but it gives you a chance to see some more Azumi action and enjoy Aya Ueto's striking performance again, and I can't complain about that. I wouldn't recommend it at all to anyone who didn't enjoy the original, but fans of the series will probably get a kick out of it despite it's shortcomings. I know I did.
OK, that's the flaws out the way. Azumi 2 introduces some interesting new characters in the shape of a clan of rival ninjas, and the best bits of the film all involve these characters in one way or another. The fights with them are the most satisfying in the movie, and they all have their own unique fighting styles, which makes them a much needed stab of artistic flair. It's unfortunate they aren't the main villains, as the movie could have benefited from more scenes with them.
Secondly, heroine Azumi is again powerfully played by Aya Ueto, who is as convincing as before, pretty much carrying the film. The acting from the rest of the cast is pretty straightforward, not awful but not Oscar material either, but Ueto's performance is so good that 80% of the time I didn't care that I was starting to nod off during any scenes without her.
What's new about Azumi 2, the new characters, different settings etc, they're great, and they're enough to get an Azumi fan through this and keep them entertained. However, in any familiar territory the original outstrips this second part effortlessly. The fights are often dull, and new director Kaneko has unwisely decided to go for quantity over quality, so where Azumi only has, say, four or five major battles but they're all big set pieces, Azumi 2 has lots of fights, but they're all over within seconds. In particular the final fight is so short as to be intensely aggravating. Also, overall direction isn't a patch on Kitamura's original, with most scenes feeling unintentionally rigid and inorganic, though it has to be said Kitamura's a very hard act to follow.
Still, despite this, it's not a bad movie, and it'll keep you entertained at the very least. It's a fairly clinical 'bigger, louder, faster...but not as good' sequel, but it gives you a chance to see some more Azumi action and enjoy Aya Ueto's striking performance again, and I can't complain about that. I wouldn't recommend it at all to anyone who didn't enjoy the original, but fans of the series will probably get a kick out of it despite it's shortcomings. I know I did.
Even better than the first
ebiros227 September 2011
The second installment, and the final chapter of Azumi's saga picks up where the first one left off.
Monk Tenkai (Shigeru Kouyama) is still leading the ninja assassin troop to hunt down the remaining warlords of the Toyotomi clan. Azumi (Aya Ueto), and Nagara (Yuuma Ishigaki) who are the survivors from the first movie is part of Tenkai's assassins. There is a girl ninja in Tenkai's troop named Kozue (Chiaki Kurihara) who joins Azumi, and Nagara. Together they take off to assassinate Masayuki Sanada (Mikijiro Hira). On their way, they meet a group of bandits. One of them named Ginkaku (Shun Oguri) looks exactly like Azumi's first love Nachi. Kozue tells Nagara that Azumi secretly wants to defect with Ginkaku and live a peaceful life. In order to help Azumi realize her dream, Nagara suggests to go separate ways sending Azumi on a wild goose chase. Nagara, and Kozue then heads out to assassinate Masayuki Sanada. On their way, Kozue shows her true color as Masayuki's double agent. In the mean time, Masayuki decides to mount a preemptive strike on Tenkai's troops, and leaves his castle to assassinate them. Just when this seems to succeed, Azumi and the bandits shows up and defeats Masayuki's first wave of attack. Masayuki's main troop plans for another attack, this time with ninja Tsuchigumo (Taku Sakaguchi), and Kuunyo (Reiko Takashima). In the mean time, Kozue shows up at Tenkai's camp, and tells she got separated from Nagara. Then she moves to assassinate Tenkai, but is cut down by Azumi. On her way to kill Masayuki, Azumi encounters Tsuchigumo, and is nearly defeated by his steel wire attack. She survives, but now Kuunyo stands in her way. Drugged and nearly unconscious, Azumi can't fend for her life. Just when Kuunyo is about to give the finishing blow, Ginkaku shows up and stabs Kuunyo, but also gets fatally wounded by Kuunyo's lance. Azumi continues to Masayuki's camp, and Masayuki furious of Azumi killing Kuunyo, and his other henchmen, moves to a duel with Azumi.
Unlike the first Azumi which was mostly based on Kill Bill like action, this version is more poetic, and story driven. There's sadness to the whole story, and makes you wonder how Azumi's life will be like in the future. Ironically, director Shunsuke Kaneko who was a big fan of Kill Bill Vol 1 hired actress Chiaki Kuriyama who played Go Go in Kill Bill to play the role of Kozue on this film. Aya Ueto is more mature and pretty as ever. This is one lady who best of Hollywood beauties will have hard time competing with, and she can act to boot.
Bitter sweet saga that begs for a sequel, but probably wouldn't happen due to Aya Ueto's current age.
Monk Tenkai (Shigeru Kouyama) is still leading the ninja assassin troop to hunt down the remaining warlords of the Toyotomi clan. Azumi (Aya Ueto), and Nagara (Yuuma Ishigaki) who are the survivors from the first movie is part of Tenkai's assassins. There is a girl ninja in Tenkai's troop named Kozue (Chiaki Kurihara) who joins Azumi, and Nagara. Together they take off to assassinate Masayuki Sanada (Mikijiro Hira). On their way, they meet a group of bandits. One of them named Ginkaku (Shun Oguri) looks exactly like Azumi's first love Nachi. Kozue tells Nagara that Azumi secretly wants to defect with Ginkaku and live a peaceful life. In order to help Azumi realize her dream, Nagara suggests to go separate ways sending Azumi on a wild goose chase. Nagara, and Kozue then heads out to assassinate Masayuki Sanada. On their way, Kozue shows her true color as Masayuki's double agent. In the mean time, Masayuki decides to mount a preemptive strike on Tenkai's troops, and leaves his castle to assassinate them. Just when this seems to succeed, Azumi and the bandits shows up and defeats Masayuki's first wave of attack. Masayuki's main troop plans for another attack, this time with ninja Tsuchigumo (Taku Sakaguchi), and Kuunyo (Reiko Takashima). In the mean time, Kozue shows up at Tenkai's camp, and tells she got separated from Nagara. Then she moves to assassinate Tenkai, but is cut down by Azumi. On her way to kill Masayuki, Azumi encounters Tsuchigumo, and is nearly defeated by his steel wire attack. She survives, but now Kuunyo stands in her way. Drugged and nearly unconscious, Azumi can't fend for her life. Just when Kuunyo is about to give the finishing blow, Ginkaku shows up and stabs Kuunyo, but also gets fatally wounded by Kuunyo's lance. Azumi continues to Masayuki's camp, and Masayuki furious of Azumi killing Kuunyo, and his other henchmen, moves to a duel with Azumi.
Unlike the first Azumi which was mostly based on Kill Bill like action, this version is more poetic, and story driven. There's sadness to the whole story, and makes you wonder how Azumi's life will be like in the future. Ironically, director Shunsuke Kaneko who was a big fan of Kill Bill Vol 1 hired actress Chiaki Kuriyama who played Go Go in Kill Bill to play the role of Kozue on this film. Aya Ueto is more mature and pretty as ever. This is one lady who best of Hollywood beauties will have hard time competing with, and she can act to boot.
Bitter sweet saga that begs for a sequel, but probably wouldn't happen due to Aya Ueto's current age.
Less action than the original, but a more emotional sequel
kevin_crighton10 October 2008
Azumi was one of the best in recent samurai movies in the last few years. This sequel, while not hitting the high points of that movie, is still a good follow-up. As Azumi and Nagara continue their hunt for the last lord, they meet up with a group of bandits, one of whom looks very familiar.....
The original had a plot that was more simple and straight forwards. Here there is actually more going on, and as a result, with a number of new characters introduced sometimes Azumi and Nagara are lost in the mix.
Having said that however, the action, while not quite as good as in the first movie, is still very impressive. But what has also been added is a bit more of an emotional, even love story with the character of Ginkaku. Loking exactly like Nachi (someone Azumi liked, possibly loved and had to kill in the first movie), it gives Azumi a possible chance of love, but as is always the case in movies like this, things never go to plan.
As in the first movie, Aya Ueto gives a strong performance in the lead role. The rest of the cast are just as good too. Shusuke Kaneko taking over the direction handles it well.
It may not be as action packed as the first, but it is a very worthy sequel.
The original had a plot that was more simple and straight forwards. Here there is actually more going on, and as a result, with a number of new characters introduced sometimes Azumi and Nagara are lost in the mix.
Having said that however, the action, while not quite as good as in the first movie, is still very impressive. But what has also been added is a bit more of an emotional, even love story with the character of Ginkaku. Loking exactly like Nachi (someone Azumi liked, possibly loved and had to kill in the first movie), it gives Azumi a possible chance of love, but as is always the case in movies like this, things never go to plan.
As in the first movie, Aya Ueto gives a strong performance in the lead role. The rest of the cast are just as good too. Shusuke Kaneko taking over the direction handles it well.
It may not be as action packed as the first, but it is a very worthy sequel.
A soulless commercial product that will disappoint you
sarastro711 June 2005
I loved the first Azumi movie; it had lots of action, lots of story, and lots of symbolism. Azumi ended up as a cool avenging angel with the Herculean task of ending all war - and she had the charisma and determination to make the viewer believe that she might actually succeed! It was an epic samurai youth fantasy movie that worked on many levels - possibly the best Japanese movie I've seen. I rated it 9 out of 10.
Of course, I looked enormously forward to the sequel...
It started out well enough, as a direct continuation of the first movie. However, as it went on, very little happened, and it was marred by long scenes with virtually no content. There was some action, but the movie was primarily made up of ridiculous, nonsensical angst and meaningless emoting. The movie progressed insufferably slowly, had none of the intensity and subtext of the original, and you had just about zero feeling for the characters.
This commercial misfire represents a huge blown opportunity; they could have done something cool, but did something totally bland and soulless. This is a movie that deserves a 4 rating, but I will give it a 5 because it associates to the first, the two movies together forming a franchise of a new type which will hopefully be eagerly emulated and improved by other filmmakers, whether Japanese or Western.
Of course, I looked enormously forward to the sequel...
It started out well enough, as a direct continuation of the first movie. However, as it went on, very little happened, and it was marred by long scenes with virtually no content. There was some action, but the movie was primarily made up of ridiculous, nonsensical angst and meaningless emoting. The movie progressed insufferably slowly, had none of the intensity and subtext of the original, and you had just about zero feeling for the characters.
This commercial misfire represents a huge blown opportunity; they could have done something cool, but did something totally bland and soulless. This is a movie that deserves a 4 rating, but I will give it a 5 because it associates to the first, the two movies together forming a franchise of a new type which will hopefully be eagerly emulated and improved by other filmmakers, whether Japanese or Western.
Slightly more believable and emotional than Azumi 1
Berserker_swe21 August 2009
I didn't bother commenting on Azumi 1 since there's w really not much to say. It's a very good modern ninja movie. And it's good to see a female hero for once, though I'm sure it has existed before in Asian movies (Lady bloodsnow or something right ?) Anyways, i liked Azumi 1 and rated it a seven (7). But i liked this one slightly more. I feel you get to understand the character better as well as there's now need for the long introduction which was at the beginning of Azumi 1.
The story is pretty much the same, but the fighting sequences are more believable and interesting.
That's all i have to say, really, slightly better is my final words.
The story is pretty much the same, but the fighting sequences are more believable and interesting.
That's all i have to say, really, slightly better is my final words.
Less dynamic but still a worthy sequel
CuriosityKilledShawn20 June 2008
Warning: Spoilers
Despite the success of Azumi the makers appear to have cut back on the budget for this sequel and as a result we get much less in the way of innovative action and a LOT more of wandering around in the forest.
The story picks up not long after the first with Azumi and Nagara still going after the warlords intent on seizing Japan. She soon meets a rowdy young rebel called Ginkaku who looks a lot like her dead boyfriend Nachi (a weird plot that goes absolutely nowhere) and joins forces with them to fight evil.
Some nice fight scenes follow but they use waaaay too much CGI blood effects (a horrible trend that is becoming more and more popular) and none of them have the eccentric flair of the original movie. The ending doesn't amount to much either but I'd still watch a third if they were to make it.
The story picks up not long after the first with Azumi and Nagara still going after the warlords intent on seizing Japan. She soon meets a rowdy young rebel called Ginkaku who looks a lot like her dead boyfriend Nachi (a weird plot that goes absolutely nowhere) and joins forces with them to fight evil.
Some nice fight scenes follow but they use waaaay too much CGI blood effects (a horrible trend that is becoming more and more popular) and none of them have the eccentric flair of the original movie. The ending doesn't amount to much either but I'd still watch a third if they were to make it.
great but not great as the first one
abdullahxyy20 October 2007
When ı heard miss Kuriyama has won the MTV award a few years ago ı was so happy because she has some Allah given talent. But the award was surprisingly categorised "the best fight". Honestly there are better fights in films. Yes she is an awesome fighter but her character role playing is better then her fighting. She is nearly the number one evil girl character to me.
And miss Ueto had given a stunning performance in the first film displaying a strong hearted young woman. But somehow in this film she is weaker (ı mean Azumi) fight scenes are less convincing.
Overall this is a successful Japanese film to watch with family. The best of it is "love" is given without sex scenes. That makes the audience spectrum larger.
And miss Ueto had given a stunning performance in the first film displaying a strong hearted young woman. But somehow in this film she is weaker (ı mean Azumi) fight scenes are less convincing.
Overall this is a successful Japanese film to watch with family. The best of it is "love" is given without sex scenes. That makes the audience spectrum larger.
Azumi once more..stilll worth the watch...
sendoh1524 May 2007
I'm a huge fan of the first one and as much as i hate agreeing with some of the comments, well I do. This isn't even close to the first, simply because kitamura's touch was missing badly. The unique sense of camera angles, sword fights, wire work etc... There's still plenty of violence and blood but not quite as impressive and breathtaking as the first. I hoped for kitamura's direction as it really would have been more intense than the first but not everything goes our way. Still the acting was good and the scene with a copy of the ninja scroll sword boomerang was pretty cool I must say.
Nevertheless I still love this simply because I love the franchise of this type of samurai flick and once again the cute aya ueto's presence once more. Recommended to all action and samurai fans out there. 10/10 simply because it's still a great movie with ueto in it...
Nevertheless I still love this simply because I love the franchise of this type of samurai flick and once again the cute aya ueto's presence once more. Recommended to all action and samurai fans out there. 10/10 simply because it's still a great movie with ueto in it...
Azumi 2: Death or Love
phubbs30 September 2014
Warning: Spoilers
Following on from the first film we see our female assassin hunted down by hired ninjas for her handy work. She is on her way to complete the mission set out in the first film and assassinate 'Sanada' (her finale target), along the way she meets up with a group of bandits who assist her but this also allows spies into the equation. This is the basis for the plot very simply laid out.
I must say I got the feeling this film may have been one big long film that was cut into two on purpose, the whole thing filmed in one go. The continuity is very good with both plot and certain actors returning and you do get a fairly epic feeling in the scope of things. Aya Ueto in the lead is still cute as hell while Tak Sakaguchi seems to be in every modern Japanese flick with any hint of action.
To be honest the film isn't entirely different from the first in the terms of what happens. Its more sword slashing, blood spurting and many similar yet nicely created characters, it also visually appears identical to the first hence why I think it was all made at the same time. Not exactly worthy of an epic award but certainly well made with some grand action sequences to please the eye.
Like all Japanese Samurai/ninja films it has a lovely period feel to the proceedings with small segments of fantasy or myth. These do add to the charm of the film but also take away from it. The story is based on a manga comic but there are so many of these adaptations from Japan you do get a strong sense of deja vu half the time.
The main plus points in this film (like many other films from the land of the rising sun) are the characters. Big, bold, colourful, exciting, athletic and overflowing with emotions whilst the flash of their Katana's glint in the sun at you. The plot is pretty much the same old search for revenge, truth or justice motif with nothing really new to offer in terms of action but it does the job well.
7/10
I must say I got the feeling this film may have been one big long film that was cut into two on purpose, the whole thing filmed in one go. The continuity is very good with both plot and certain actors returning and you do get a fairly epic feeling in the scope of things. Aya Ueto in the lead is still cute as hell while Tak Sakaguchi seems to be in every modern Japanese flick with any hint of action.
To be honest the film isn't entirely different from the first in the terms of what happens. Its more sword slashing, blood spurting and many similar yet nicely created characters, it also visually appears identical to the first hence why I think it was all made at the same time. Not exactly worthy of an epic award but certainly well made with some grand action sequences to please the eye.
Like all Japanese Samurai/ninja films it has a lovely period feel to the proceedings with small segments of fantasy or myth. These do add to the charm of the film but also take away from it. The story is based on a manga comic but there are so many of these adaptations from Japan you do get a strong sense of deja vu half the time.
The main plus points in this film (like many other films from the land of the rising sun) are the characters. Big, bold, colourful, exciting, athletic and overflowing with emotions whilst the flash of their Katana's glint in the sun at you. The plot is pretty much the same old search for revenge, truth or justice motif with nothing really new to offer in terms of action but it does the job well.
7/10
Not as good as the first one
dtjaunt14 July 2005
I loved the first "Azumi" movie. I've seen Ms. Ueto in a variety of her TV appearances and I've seen my fair share of samurai and ninja flicks. I have to say that this movie was much weaker than I'd expected.
Given the movie's cast and set up in "Azumi", they should have been able to do a much better job with this movie, but instead it was slow, plodding in parts, and sprinkled with very poor, unconvincing, and wooden acting.
When they bothered to reference the first movie, they did so in a manner that was pretty loose and weak. In "Azumi", the title character is the best of a group of superior killers. In "Azumi 2" she seems somehow diminished and less-impressive.
That's not to say it was a total loss. There were a few decent fight scenes and some over-the-top characters. Unfortunately, the movie suffers overall from the simple fact that Shusuke Kaneko and Yoshiaki Kawajiri are not Ryuhei Kitamura and Isao Kiriyama. The latter two truly captured the "manga" feel in their screenplay whereas the former never quite "got it."
Given the movie's cast and set up in "Azumi", they should have been able to do a much better job with this movie, but instead it was slow, plodding in parts, and sprinkled with very poor, unconvincing, and wooden acting.
When they bothered to reference the first movie, they did so in a manner that was pretty loose and weak. In "Azumi", the title character is the best of a group of superior killers. In "Azumi 2" she seems somehow diminished and less-impressive.
That's not to say it was a total loss. There were a few decent fight scenes and some over-the-top characters. Unfortunately, the movie suffers overall from the simple fact that Shusuke Kaneko and Yoshiaki Kawajiri are not Ryuhei Kitamura and Isao Kiriyama. The latter two truly captured the "manga" feel in their screenplay whereas the former never quite "got it."
The first one is great, just stick to it
EasternZZ20 September 2018
Azumi left off on a cliffhanger, but at the same time we could have gone without seeing a sequel. This sequel is rather bad. The first one had great manga style action, this one barely has any of the cool action in the first one. Also they decide to recast all the dead actors from the first movie, and have them play a different role. It just doesn't work and creates a huge mess of a film.
The story suddenly becomes a love story, instead of an assassin story like the first one. In the first one, Azumi and her team had one simple goal, kill the men who will eventually start wars in Japan. This movie does have a cool fight scene at the end, but it is short and the way they end this movie is really underwhelming.
I guess fans should watch the sequel just to see what happens to Azumi, but after watching this movie, they should only stick with the first one.
The story suddenly becomes a love story, instead of an assassin story like the first one. In the first one, Azumi and her team had one simple goal, kill the men who will eventually start wars in Japan. This movie does have a cool fight scene at the end, but it is short and the way they end this movie is really underwhelming.
I guess fans should watch the sequel just to see what happens to Azumi, but after watching this movie, they should only stick with the first one.
Worth Watching
tarquinbetts29 September 2006
Warning: Spoilers
This Azumi achieves it's props by different means than the first movie. In the first movie viewers were sucked in by the action scenes, in this one however the main content of the movie focuses on emotions the characters to through the way of making Azumi and co (well mainly Azumi) think weather the mission she and the others on is acceptable. The final fight scene (well most fight scenes are weak. To make this movie something (well worth a ten) you would need to merge Kitamura's one track action mind with the new directors feel for making the audience read between the lines. I wont try and spoil the end for you but i ticked the spoiler box just in case. I hope to see an Azumi 3 in a few years but this time with Kanbei and Azumi fight within the climax of the film.
You can feel a sort of tension between them. (If any directors read this make Azumi 3 and include an Azumi & Kanbei fight.)
You can feel a sort of tension between them. (If any directors read this make Azumi 3 and include an Azumi & Kanbei fight.)
I loved Azumi, but Azumi 2 deserves a quick death
blaxter101@iprimus.com.au14 July 2005
Warning: Spoilers
I loved watching the original Azumi with its mix of live action manga, compelling storyline, cool soundtrack, directing (Kitamura rocks!), editing, and not to mention the beautiful Aya Ueto who filled the part perfectly. So I was really looking forward to seeing Azumi 2, but after finally seeing it I felt like i had won the lotto and lost the ticket:( Azumi 2 picks up where Azumi left off, however these are completely 2 different movies. The pace is a lot slower, the action is not as exciting and as well choreographed and there is not a lot of character development. This was apparently directed by the same guy responsible for further reducing the value of the TOHO monster franchise (if that is possible!). I agree with some other past reviewers who say that this was a lost opportunity. If only Ryuhei Kitamura continued with this installment. There is however some beautiful Japanese forest scenery to look at while the slow action unfolds and we are introduced all too briefly to bit characters who quickly get killed off. Even the real bad guys, get killed off too easily without too much of a fight. The fight with the Spider guy (straight out of an episode of Monkey!) in the bamboo forest was about the only memorable fight scene. Wheras in Azumi 1 we had a climactic fight scene with barrel camera effects, Azumi 2 brought us the Azumi cape cam!! Azumi's rampage at the end was unconvincing, but Aya still does an okay job. She looks great in the cape...but where did she get it from? I don't think i will be watching this one over and over again! ...what a pity.
Better Than Part One & Action Packed!!
Movie-Misfit17 May 2020
For me, Azumi 2: Death or Love is a much better film. Gone is the overly artistic and CGI spoiled cinematography and long-drawn dramatics, replaced by a constant stream of martial arts, swordplay and ninja action that highly impresses. That said, it still carries some great performances, a more refined plot, and stronger choreography. The first 35 minutes alone is swamped with fight scenes against warriors and ninjas, sent by Kanbei, the surviving right-hand man of the shogun Kiyomasa (Naoto Takenaka) who lost his life after a surprise attack from Azumi at the end of part one.
Joined by Nagara, the only member left of her assassin clan, they battle their way across the land hunted by ninjas until they come across a small band of bandits led by a guy who looks identical to Azumi's first love, and man she had to kill in part one - Nachi. The mission continues...
Azumi 2: Death or Love features direction by Shusuke Kaneko, a veteran director behind the likes of the successful Death Note movies, Gamera: Guardianof the Universe, and many more. A more seasoned director, Kaneko brings a much tidier and cleaner look to his production - with the overly stylised look of Kitamura's films absent. Continuing right from where we left the story in part one, this sequel continues the comic book adaptation with more wild characters including a ninja giant called Roppa - inspired by that of Tessai in the amazing Ninja Scroll, complete with boomerang blade - a highlight of the 1 hour mark, of an already fantastic battle!
The film also benefits from having fan-favourite Chiaki Kuriyama joining the fight. The star of hits such as Kill Bill, Battle Royale, and Blade Of The Immortal, Chiaki plays a twisted little ninja girl which should delight viewers...
Battle after constant battle, death after death, Azumi 2: Death or Love offers action fans almost 2 hours of non-stop fights and ninja action. A much more mature production than part one, with great performances all round, violence and great production values - I'm only sorry we didn't see a part 3 from the same director before the craze died!
Overall: My favourite of the 2 films, this is well worth the watch and is jam-packed with great fights, ninja action, and story!
Joined by Nagara, the only member left of her assassin clan, they battle their way across the land hunted by ninjas until they come across a small band of bandits led by a guy who looks identical to Azumi's first love, and man she had to kill in part one - Nachi. The mission continues...
Azumi 2: Death or Love features direction by Shusuke Kaneko, a veteran director behind the likes of the successful Death Note movies, Gamera: Guardianof the Universe, and many more. A more seasoned director, Kaneko brings a much tidier and cleaner look to his production - with the overly stylised look of Kitamura's films absent. Continuing right from where we left the story in part one, this sequel continues the comic book adaptation with more wild characters including a ninja giant called Roppa - inspired by that of Tessai in the amazing Ninja Scroll, complete with boomerang blade - a highlight of the 1 hour mark, of an already fantastic battle!
The film also benefits from having fan-favourite Chiaki Kuriyama joining the fight. The star of hits such as Kill Bill, Battle Royale, and Blade Of The Immortal, Chiaki plays a twisted little ninja girl which should delight viewers...
Battle after constant battle, death after death, Azumi 2: Death or Love offers action fans almost 2 hours of non-stop fights and ninja action. A much more mature production than part one, with great performances all round, violence and great production values - I'm only sorry we didn't see a part 3 from the same director before the craze died!
Overall: My favourite of the 2 films, this is well worth the watch and is jam-packed with great fights, ninja action, and story!
More Azumi, but not exactly better.
lewiskendell22 June 2011
Azumi 2: Death or Love is a serviceable sequel to the movie that preceded it, but it's not quite as interesting the second time around. Where the first movie dealt with the cyclical carnage of war and the sacrifices people make for questionable higher goals, Azumi 2 is more of a straight-forward action movie that continues those themes as earnestly, but less effectively.
After the events of the first movie, the young assassin Azumi continues her mission to find and kill the last remaining warlord that seems determined to plunge feudal Japan back into war. She's accompanied by her last remaining companion, still haunted by the deaths of her friends, and sought by a vengeful warrior who wants her death above all things. Of course, she also finds new allies and hidden enemies on her journey.
This movie mirrors the plot of the first in many ways, but it's just not quite as good. The battles aren't as fun, and the story isn't as captivating. The attempts at poignancy and don't ring as true as the first movie, either.
Aya Ueto is still an irresistible heroine and I recommend to anyone who enjoyed the first movie that they should check this one out, too. Just keep in mind that the change in directors from the first movie was not exactly an improvement.
After the events of the first movie, the young assassin Azumi continues her mission to find and kill the last remaining warlord that seems determined to plunge feudal Japan back into war. She's accompanied by her last remaining companion, still haunted by the deaths of her friends, and sought by a vengeful warrior who wants her death above all things. Of course, she also finds new allies and hidden enemies on her journey.
This movie mirrors the plot of the first in many ways, but it's just not quite as good. The battles aren't as fun, and the story isn't as captivating. The attempts at poignancy and don't ring as true as the first movie, either.
Aya Ueto is still an irresistible heroine and I recommend to anyone who enjoyed the first movie that they should check this one out, too. Just keep in mind that the change in directors from the first movie was not exactly an improvement.
Not As Good,
koroke0130 May 2005
The girls is cute, but it just lacks really good action scenes and realistic story. You will be see a lot of conversation in this movie. Action senses is pretty short and the ending just sucks. The boss is really weak at the ending. I thought the first movie was much better, more bloody and better story line. The first movie contain challenges that Azumi and her friends got to go to through. My favorite enemy in the first movie was the crazy guy that in the white kimono. He just plain crazy and kill everything in his way. This second movie seem to focus more one story or try to. Sure, there is one good fight seen in the bamboo forest with Azumi versus bear ninja guy(use claws and wire as weapon). The second attempt of this movie made probably to sell the cute actresses. Don't get me wrong, I'll go and watch the cute ninja girls in action, but for action and story line. It just plain triable. I don't mind of having female as a warrior. Just watch it yourself and decide if it good or bad.
Maginificent Sequel
blacksword8327 August 2005
It's been a long wait for me for the continuation of the original Azumi. Azumi ended at such a crucial point that as soon as an English subbed version of the sequel was available, it was in my hands.
Azumi 2 is every bit as touching, amazing and downright brilliant as the first instalment. The characters are as easy to attach to as those in the original film, the battle sequences just as brimming with amazing CGI and breathtaking choreography (the human spider sequence in the bamboo forest will have you gripping your palms 'til they pour with sweat).
With a new director on board it was easy to mess this one up, but it shines just as well as its predecessor.
Azumi 2 is without a doubt one of the best sequels made for a Japanese film. Lets just hope Hollywood don't buy the rights to create another shoddy remake.
Azumi 2 is every bit as touching, amazing and downright brilliant as the first instalment. The characters are as easy to attach to as those in the original film, the battle sequences just as brimming with amazing CGI and breathtaking choreography (the human spider sequence in the bamboo forest will have you gripping your palms 'til they pour with sweat).
With a new director on board it was easy to mess this one up, but it shines just as well as its predecessor.
Azumi 2 is without a doubt one of the best sequels made for a Japanese film. Lets just hope Hollywood don't buy the rights to create another shoddy remake.
better than part 1
trashgang3 May 2011
This is still a real good example of Asian flicks so it's not for everybody but if you can understand their way of living than you really will enjoy this flick. It goes further were part one stopped and their are some flashbacks but overall the story is much better than the first one. But you will need a paper to wrote all the names down to understand who is who. Again they used CGI for some scene's to fill in the blood or the more gorier (funny) parts that reminded me of one of the traps of Cube. But when the red stuff flows it sputters like they use to do in Asian flicks. It clocks in at almost 2 hours but still you keep attracted to the screen. Nowadays it's easy to find the DVD and it's so cheap that you have to pick it up.
The definition of a lazy cash in
wierzbowskisteedman8 July 2006
Warning: Spoilers
There's no denying the first Azumi film was a commercial product; it was an adaptation of a popular manga and had cast of young, attractive actors and certainly wasn't lacking in the budget department. Yet it more than entertained for what it was, and I can't deny I enjoyed it immensely.
"Azumi 2" lacks just about everything that made the original so wonderful. The first thing that should set alarm bells ringing is the absence of the superb Ryuhei Kitamura at the helm. With him, he seemed to take not only his own visual flair and kinetics, but the originals style, beauty and most importantly, its heart. While the first had a simple "hitlist" plot, this one has a corkscrew mess of a story, with too many dull characters stabbing each other in the back so many times the potential for any sympathy or pathos is obliterated. Gone is the effective interplay between the lead characters; Azumi and her cohorts are often reduced to a bunch of stroppy teenagers arguing in a forest. Characterisation is non existent; if anyone watching actually cares who lives and who dies, I'll be shocked. The same applies to the villains here. The final battle - in fact all the battles - are completely devoid of any sort of tension. The fact that they are poorly choreographed and abysmally directed - not to mention few and far between - is made a sideline by their own sheer pointlessness. The villains themselves try far too hard to be campy, and even if they were all combined, they don't come within a country mile of the Pete Burnsian antics of Jo Odagiri in the original.
####Major Spoiler at end of paragraph!#####
Aya Ueto tries her best it has to be said, and she also managed to keep her hair in good condition between the films. Azumi is now a fully fledged assassin, meaning she can wave her sword around in slow motion; unfortunately, now the character is instilled with a sort of Man With No Name style mysteriousness, Ueto's model looks become even more inappropriate. I know this is supposed to be the point, but this combined with the ineffectiveness of everyone else in the film, the stupidity of the plot and the general ineptness of the film in general means it is downright impossible to get behind her character this time around. The less said about Chiaki "Remember me from Kill Bill" Kuriyama's performance the better; it suffices to say her "turn" from good to evil is about as subtle as napalm.
Overall, this was just a colossal disappointment. Any merits is does have were done ten times better in the first film. A lazy, unsatisfying - and generally downright boring - mess.
"Azumi 2" lacks just about everything that made the original so wonderful. The first thing that should set alarm bells ringing is the absence of the superb Ryuhei Kitamura at the helm. With him, he seemed to take not only his own visual flair and kinetics, but the originals style, beauty and most importantly, its heart. While the first had a simple "hitlist" plot, this one has a corkscrew mess of a story, with too many dull characters stabbing each other in the back so many times the potential for any sympathy or pathos is obliterated. Gone is the effective interplay between the lead characters; Azumi and her cohorts are often reduced to a bunch of stroppy teenagers arguing in a forest. Characterisation is non existent; if anyone watching actually cares who lives and who dies, I'll be shocked. The same applies to the villains here. The final battle - in fact all the battles - are completely devoid of any sort of tension. The fact that they are poorly choreographed and abysmally directed - not to mention few and far between - is made a sideline by their own sheer pointlessness. The villains themselves try far too hard to be campy, and even if they were all combined, they don't come within a country mile of the Pete Burnsian antics of Jo Odagiri in the original.
####Major Spoiler at end of paragraph!#####
Aya Ueto tries her best it has to be said, and she also managed to keep her hair in good condition between the films. Azumi is now a fully fledged assassin, meaning she can wave her sword around in slow motion; unfortunately, now the character is instilled with a sort of Man With No Name style mysteriousness, Ueto's model looks become even more inappropriate. I know this is supposed to be the point, but this combined with the ineffectiveness of everyone else in the film, the stupidity of the plot and the general ineptness of the film in general means it is downright impossible to get behind her character this time around. The less said about Chiaki "Remember me from Kill Bill" Kuriyama's performance the better; it suffices to say her "turn" from good to evil is about as subtle as napalm.
Overall, this was just a colossal disappointment. Any merits is does have were done ten times better in the first film. A lazy, unsatisfying - and generally downright boring - mess.
Nothing will come between ' Azumi ' and 'The Missio To prevent wars is her only Desire.
gashmanflirty5 September 2011
Warning: Spoilers
You really have to watch Azumi 1 as this is a continuation and No.1 sets the groundwork. I enjoyed watching this, it is important that you allow yourself to get into the film and focus otherwise it will just go over your head and you will become detached. You notice every so often that there seems to be some lack in budget. However this is overcome by the storyline and the quality of the acting. Some villains remain from Azumi 1, especially Lord Kato protector. These allow you to have a stronger connection to the film & allow you to become more involved; ultimately enhancing viewing performance. 7.6/10 for me. Thats just about on the high fair side. Could of been more with higher budget. But i more than appreciate how it is currently. Azumi definitely somehow grows on you and you always know she will come through her battle's no matter how hard the opponent. Her mission seems to be one of good, therefore you support it. One thing that was always going through my head from Azumi 1 was the reference made by a character to Azumi & speed over power. In same light looking at Azumi's figure she seems flimsy yet she wields so much impact. I also always like after she kill's someone the stance after, it is delayed then blood starts gushing out. They think they were never caught yet realise the blade has penetrated her skin. She has some sort of back blade as well which comes in very hand and she uses in devastating effect. The mix of enemies work well. But in Azumi 2 it becomes even more prominent the desire to complete the mission. That is what they live for and without it they are somewhat lost. Being compelled to carry out your duty. This somehwhat leads me to think about 'Bushido', and in parts of the film i was thinking about 'The Last samurai '. Anyway enjoy Azumi 1 and 2 but if you fall asleep it is more than difficult to get back into it. This probably because there are so many details to remember , culminating in the conclusion that the storyline has strength.
Girls in skirts - Part 2
kosmasp26 April 2007
You like beautiful girls? Yeah me too. What is there bad to say about beautiful girls/women? Nothing imo, so why would I give this movie only 2 stars out of 5, although it got the "talents" of Chiaki Kuriyama and Aya Ueto?
If I really wanted to watch beautiful people, I'd watch MTV or something that's why. This is a movie, a so called action movie nevertheless. So by definition it does not even really need a plot right? I'm not agreeing 100%, but let's say yes to that. So what does it need? 20 minutes footage from part 1 (I might be exaggerating a little bit, but it felt like more than 20 minutes ...)?! That would be "No". But then again you never know, the people who watched part one might not know what they ate this morning for breakfast, so hey let's remind them ... hey maybe remind them even twice? Just to be sure they won't forget ... at least until the credits roll, of course!!!!
So forget about the story, about character development, about real emotions, about the "acting" (and no, I don't think women in skirts walking and/or fighting is accountable for acting!) ... what does that leave? Yes the action scenes. The action scenes are not bad and that's the reason I gave the movie 2 stars instead of 1! I was giving this movie a chance, but it was a waste of time ... You have better things to do/watch, believe me ...
If I really wanted to watch beautiful people, I'd watch MTV or something that's why. This is a movie, a so called action movie nevertheless. So by definition it does not even really need a plot right? I'm not agreeing 100%, but let's say yes to that. So what does it need? 20 minutes footage from part 1 (I might be exaggerating a little bit, but it felt like more than 20 minutes ...)?! That would be "No". But then again you never know, the people who watched part one might not know what they ate this morning for breakfast, so hey let's remind them ... hey maybe remind them even twice? Just to be sure they won't forget ... at least until the credits roll, of course!!!!
So forget about the story, about character development, about real emotions, about the "acting" (and no, I don't think women in skirts walking and/or fighting is accountable for acting!) ... what does that leave? Yes the action scenes. The action scenes are not bad and that's the reason I gave the movie 2 stars instead of 1! I was giving this movie a chance, but it was a waste of time ... You have better things to do/watch, believe me ...
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