Introduction
The live-action adaptation of Yu Yu Hakusho features a myriad of fights, some faithfully recreated from the anime and others original to the series. The quality of these fights varies, and it is important to rank and evaluate them based on their impact on the series. From the martial-focused combats to those featuring special abilities and CGI, each fight has its own unique appeal. This article will delve into the best and worst Yu Yu Hakusho fights of the live-action series, comparing them to their anime counterparts and assessing their overall quality.
Yusuke Urameshi punches Kuwabara in Yu Yu Hakusho episode 1
One of the key elements that the live-action adaptation had to get right was the portrayal of the fights. While many changes were made to the source material, the fights were a highlight of the new Yu Yu Hakusho show. The characters' special powers, such as Kuwabara's Spirit Sword and Kurama's demonic plant manipulation, added depth and excitement to the combat scenes.
Hiei attacks Yusuke using a sword in Yu Yu Hakusho episode 3
The Rankings
The ranking of the live-action Yu Yu Hakusho fights is based on their quality, impact, and faithfulness to the source material. Each fight is evaluated and compared to its anime counterpart to determine its ranking from worst to best.
Yusuke punches Hiei in Yu Yu Hakusho episode 3
Let's start with the lowest-ranked fight, Yusuke vs. Kuwabara. This scene, although entertaining, lacks the seriousness and stakes that define the best fights in the series. The offscreen action and lack of real stakes place it at the bottom of the list.
Genkai fights Yusuke in Yu Yu Hakusho episode 3
The second lowest-ranked fight is Yusuke vs. Hiei (Round 2). While it raised hopes for a rematch between Yusuke and the real Hiei, the second combat was disappointingly short and lacked impact, especially considering the iconic nature of their battles in the anime.
Kuwabara attacks Elder Toguro with a pipe in Yu Yu Hakusho episode 4
Next is Yusuke vs. Hiei (Round 1). This highly anticipated fight failed to live up to its original anime counterpart, lacking the impact and creativity that define Yusuke and Hiei's encounters.
Toguro in his final form in Yu Yu Hakusho episode 5
Following that is Yusuke vs. Genkai, a training match that successfully combines storytelling with action, teaching Yusuke important lessons and showcasing his growth as a fighter.
Final form Toguro in Yu Yu Hakusho episode 5
Kuwabara vs. Elder Toguro, although early in the story, delivers cool moments and high stakes, making it a noteworthy addition to the series.
Yusuke punches final form Toguro in Yu Yu Hakusho episode 5
The fight between Yusuke and 100% Toguro is divisive, with its lack of build-up and unrealistic portrayal of Toguro's final form. This fight falls short of capturing the intensity and weight of its anime counterpart.
Takumi Kitamura as Yusuke Urameshi getting ready to attack Toguro in the live-action YuYu Hakusho
In contrast, the battle between Yusuke, Kurama, and Hiei against Toguro brings the show's separate storylines together, creating an intense and cohesive fighting sequence that showcases teamwork and skill.
Toguro turns into ashes in Yu Yu Hakusho episode 5
Hiei vs. Bui impresses with its deadly match and the perfect blend of wire work and CG doubles, highlighting Hiei's skills and the significance of the fight.
Kurama holding Toguro while Huei and Yusuke attack him
Kurama vs. Karasu stands out as one of the best fights in the series, successfully translating Kurama's unique fighting style and the intensity of the Dark Tournament into live-action.
Hiei surrounded by energy in Yu Yu Hakusho episode 4
Yusuke vs. Kirino, an original fight in the live-action series, captivates with its elaborated choreography, intense hand-to-hand combat, and subtle use of wire work, earning its place among the top fights.
Kurama's true form fights Karasu in Yu Yu Hakusho episode 4
Finally, the best fight in the live-action Yu Yu Hakusho series is Yusuke vs. Gouki, which excels in choreography, intensity, and the incorporation of CGI to portray a demon-like creature. This fight showcases the series' best elements and delivers a thrilling and impactful combat sequence.
Live-action Kurama in his demon fox and human forms in Yu Yu Hakusho episode 4
Conclusion
In conclusion, the live-action Yu Yu Hakusho series features a diverse range of fights, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. From the entertaining but less impactful fights to the intense and exhilarating battles, the series successfully captures the essence of the anime while adding its own unique flair. While not all fights live up to their anime counterparts, the live-action adaptation delivers memorable and visually stunning combat sequences that contribute to the overall appeal of the series.
Jun Shison in Kurama's demon fox form in YuYu Hakusho