Shinsengumi!

I must say as an avid Samurai historian this series thrilled me from beginning to end. It shows exactly how the Shinsengumi were formed, betrayed, new ideals in a changing society, and also which is most important, shows how the Meiji restoration came about politically, and how much impact it had on Japanese society. Though the makers did change some of the history (Sutesuke in all likelihood did not die until 1915)

the series is the best i have seen so far. Without judgment passed on either the Shinsengumi, bakufu, meiji emperor, and other political figures, the drama is intense, and you really get an in depth view of the characters which grow as the series develops.

a must see!

and a small remark for the guy taking a Japanese course and not liking it: you will never understans Japan, its culture, and bushido if you do not get this. Drop out of the course, and do it now. Aho!

H.J.Vrielink

ASHIKAGA PRODUCTION DESIGN