* Review*: Kamui Gaiden

Legend tells of an outcast rising from the lowest feudal caste 'hinin' to become one of the most feared of the 'shinobi' class.  This lone ninja, KAMUI, soon becomes a fugitive to his clan-- branding himself 'nukenin' (a fugitive for life).

As he travels from fishing village to fishing village, Kamui soon learns about the gift of compassion and family attachments, but his past returns to haunt him as his clansmen close in.

KAMUI GAIDEN is directed by acclaimed Japanese Academy Award winner, YOICHI SAI, and based on manga by SHIRATO SANPEI.  The ocean scenes are vivid, as if Hokusai's paintings of massive tsunamis have come to life.

The CG effects are not quite  believable, though the wuxia inspired wire fu, gives the film the necessary fantasy feel it appears to be going for (even if it goes a little overboard).  Some scenes obviously miss their mark as ninjas leap in a pas de deux of movement.  Even CG sharks and fish get in on the flying.

Overall, it's a beautifully told story, though a little slow in pace. A good majority of the film focuses on how Kamui forms relationships. For those who are looking solely for an action film, they may need to look elsewhere, but for those who are looking for a visually stunning magical realist tale that takes place in feudal Japan, this film marks a wonderful escape into the world of the NINJA.