Is Ninja Scroll A Movie Or Series

Okay, let's settle this. Forever. Is Ninja Scroll a movie or a series? It seems simple, right?

But like, have you really thought about it? I have. Maybe too much.

The Obvious Answer: It's a Movie

Duh. It was released in theaters. It has a runtime of about 90 minutes. End of story, right?

Wrong! Hear me out before you sharpen your katana.

My Unpopular Opinion: Ninja Scroll *Feels* Like a Series

I know, I know. Blasphemy! But stick with me. Each villain in Ninja Scroll feels like a "monster of the week" bad guy.

Think about it. We've got the rock dude, the poison lady, the guy with the snakes... They each have their own mini-arc.

Couldn't you easily imagine a 13-episode series where Jubei Kibagami faces off against each of the Eight Devils of Kimon one by one?

It's almost like a pilot episode introducing the big bad (Gemma), followed by several episodes dedicated to individual members.

Exhibit A: The Villains Are Too Good for Just One Scene

Seriously, these guys deserve more screen time! The designs are so cool and the powers are so unique. It feels like a waste to dispatch them so quickly.

A series could explore their backstories. What motivates the rock guy? What's up with the poison lady's creepy smile?

We need answers! And a longer fight scene with the blind swordsman.

Exhibit B: The World-Building Is Just Begging for More

Ninja Scroll throws you into this fantastical, feudal Japan. It's gritty, mystical, and full of potential.

A series could delve deeper into the political intrigue. We could explore different ninja clans. More historical context would be great too.

Imagine episodes dedicated to exploring the different villages and the struggles of the common people. It would add so much depth!

Exhibit C: Jubei Could Use Some Character Development

Okay, Jubei is a total badass. No question. But he's also kind of a lone wolf archetype.

A series could explore his past. Why is he so jaded? Does he have any hidden soft spots? (Besides Kagero, obviously.)

Give the man a backstory! Let us see him grow and change over time.

Okay, Maybe It's Still a Movie...But It Could Have Been So Much More!

Look, I'm not saying Ninja Scroll is bad. It's a classic! I love it. I'm just saying...it's got series potential.

The movie is a condensed version of what could have been an epic, multi-episode saga.

So next time you watch it, try to imagine it as a pilot episode. It's fun!

Maybe someday, some brave studio will give Ninja Scroll the series adaptation it deserves. A guy can dream, right?

Until then, I'll just keep rewatching the movie and pretending each fight is a self-contained episode. Don't judge me!

So, what do you think? Movie or potential series? Let me know in the comments (if there were comments). And please, be gentle.