Ninja Kamui: Bonds of Grief and Brotherhood

Ninja Kamui's backstory is kept concise, allowing the story to focus on moving forward rather than dwelling in the past. In contrast, the latest episode delves into the histories of Higan and Mike, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of their shared trauma.

In the previous episode, the spotlight was on the villains. Lil's inappropriate advances towards Higan and Yamaji's interrogation of Joseph for misusing the organization's resources created tension. A surprise attack forces Higan to battle a mechanical puppet, resulting in a victory but also revealing weaknesses for future encounters.

Higan and Mike Are More Alike than They Realize

ninja-kamui-4-mike-flashback - Higan and Mike Are More Alike than They Realize

The most intriguing aspect of this episode is also where it could improve in storytelling. So far, Mike has been portrayed as a typical detective nearing retirement who is unable to let go of a case. Even his backstory revealed after the opening theme does not change this perception. He tragically lost his daughter in a car accident, and when he ignored his wife's calls to inform him about it, he ended up losing her as well.

The missed calls were just the final straw. The wounds go deeper than that, suggesting that Mike was too engrossed in his work to spend time with his family, rather than his daughter loving him any less. But when that love fades away, all that remains is a growing list of grievances straining a marriage where one partner is emotionally absent during the most devastating event imaginable.

When the Scene Lacks Subtlety

It may sound poetic, but in reality, it's just a common plot that has been seen many times before. The dialogue in the scene lacks depth, especially the line spoken by Mike's wife, Ariana. It feels forced and unnatural, draining away any potential emotions that could have elevated the scene.

I thought I could handle the challenges of marrying and having a family with an FBI agent! But I was wrong!

The audience can already infer that the death of Mike's daughter destroyed his marriage and that his emotional distance was a huge factor. All the things that can't be inferred should add intrigue as to the depth of that rift, but instead, only a sliver of that tension is cut off and spelled out to the viewer, thus coming off as awkward. The saving grace is in how this begs a comparison between Mike and Higan, another father who lost everything.

How Ninja Kamui Might Confront Their Guilt

ninja-kamui-4-higan-mari - How Ninja Kamui Might Confront Their Guilt

Both of these men have experienced the loss of their families, although in very different ways. Their trauma and guilt stem from the feeling of not being able to save their loved ones. The audience never witnesses the deaths themselves, only the aftermath or, in Higan's case, the final blow. Higan also carries a heavy burden of guilt, as seen in his nightmare in Episode 2. It is understandable that a father, especially one as skilled as him, would feel responsible.

What's interesting is how the unique circumstances of these two men show that they are not entirely to blame, even though they may not realize it. Mike was so focused on his work that it created a distance between him and his family. However, his daughter's death was not a direct result of his work; it was a tragic accident. On the other hand, Higan's situation was quite the opposite.

Where the Show Needs to Take This Plotline

When he and Mari left the organization and started a family, there was no job or responsibility separating them. Yet, despite Higan being there, they were still taken from him. The hardest truth about survivor's guilt is that it attempts to bind logic to a tragedy that is more often than not wholly illogical. Whether Mike answered his wife's calls or not, it wouldn't have saved his daughter, and Higan's inability to save Mari and Ren didn't make him a failure. They're both simply victims.

ninja-kamui-4-higan-mike - Where the Show Needs to Take This Plotline

Higan and Mike show potential for a great partnership in the series, but there are some steps that need to be taken. Their contrasting styles make it challenging to build their relationship through action, which is a key strength of the show.

Mike is pretty ordinary, so the key to his success lies in his writing skills and detective work. In a recent episode, it was suggested that he may have a knack for seeing through the ninja's disguises. This could really change the game and help him feel like a true detective, rather than just a guy in a suit with an FBI badge.

Ninja Kamui has something interesting going on, but for it to work, these two characters need to open up to each other and break down their walls. Without this connection, their temporary alliance lacks depth and meaning. It's especially important for Mike, who has been nothing more than a passive observer up until now.

Editor's P/S:

The article delves into the character development of Higan and Mike in the anime "Ninja Kamui," highlighting their shared trauma and potential for growth. The writer praises the backstory exploration but critiques the lack of subtlety in a particular scene, which could have conveyed the emotional depth more effectively.

The article also analyzes the different circumstances of their losses, emphasizing that both Higan and Mike feel survivor's guilt. However, it suggests that the show needs to explore this plotline further by delving into the complexities of their emotions and developing a stronger connection between the characters through shared experiences and open communication. Overall, the article provides a thoughtful and nuanced perspective on the anime's storytelling and character development, offering constructive criticism and highlighting areas for improvement while acknowledging the potential for a compelling narrative.