Story– Fist of the North Star takes place in a post-apocalyptic future, a world created in the wake of a global nuclear conflict at the end of the 20th century. In this strange new world of fallen governments and collapsed societies, mankind is pushed to the edge of survival and left on the very brink of extinction. For much of humanity life has become a constant struggle between life and death, characterized by hardship and oppression.. It is a world of madness in need of a savior, and this is his story.
Art/Animation- The original television series boasts excellent animation for it’s time period and budget. In terms of character design and style, the series remains pretty faithful to the original manga. Despite this praise, viewers will need to understand that this series was made in the 80’s and does not resemble any of today’s series in terms of quality and detail.
Sound/Music- The music is pretty catchy and memorable, fitting the animation perfectly. Most viewers should be pleased with the experience.
Character- Fist of the North Star follows the story of Kenshiro, a lone warrior trained in the legendary martial art of Hokuto Shinken. The series chronicles his journeys through the wasteland as he searches to find and be reunited with the love of his life Yuria. Tagging along are the orphans Bart and Lin, who follow Kenshiro across the wasteland and learn from his examples. The series also introduces the handsome warrior Rei, who is a master the the graceful Nanto Suicho Ken art of combat and his love interest Mamiya, a woman who bears a striking resemblance to Yuria.
Other major characters include Kenshiro’s siblings Toki and Raoh, who are in direct competition with one another to claim the position of rightful heir to the Hokuto legacy. Unlike Kenshiro, who uses his fists to protect the weak; Raoh uses his fists to bring order through conquest, while Toki uses his fists to heal the sick, weak, and injured. Ultimately the series revolves around their sibling rivalry and the unbreakable bond between brothers. The series has many antagonists, however a there are a few major ones who stand out. Shin, Kenshiro’s longtime friend and romantic rival who was corrupted into kidnapping Yuria and leaving Kenshiro for dead is the series first major antagonist. The twisted and cruel Jagi, has a score to settle with his brother Kenshiro and sets out to ruin his name. The hedonistic Judah, a former comrade of Rei falls from grace and becomes an object of revenge for Rei. Lastly there is Souther, traumatized at a young age after being forced to kill his master, he literally proclaims himself to be God on earth and enslaves children to build a grand mausoleum to his former master and father figure.
Enjoyment- I found the tv series to be very enjoyable, the only real line I’d have to draw here is the amount of filler in the series’ first season.. I found it to be pretty unnecessary in relation to the rest of the series. The series really takes off after they defeat Shin and start to introduce Kenshiro’s brothers.
Islamic Factor– As with all Fist of the North Star related material, I would recommend this series to mature audiences due to it’s content. The series itself can get pretty graphic, despite being toned down from the manga and might not be the best for young children unless an adult is present. As for the Islamic factor I’d be quick to point out that many Islamic values are shared and reflected by the series’ lead characters and themes, especially through Kenshiro. The most minor examples include how Kenshiro protects those who need protection, cares for women and orphans, and guides people into doing the right things in life.. some major examples range from forgiving Shin after everything he did or how Kenshiro and Raoh never let their differences break the bond between brothers.
Conclusion– Overall I think this series is great, I love it and always enjoy watching it.. it may not be as good as the manga but it is easily worth watching. For people new to the franchise however, I would recommend that they watch the 80’s movie adaptation before stepping into the anime or manga.
*I have watched the official subbed and dubbed version, if you watch it I would recommend the subbed version with the Japanese dialogue. The English dub is absolutely atrocious and should avoided, since it was dubbed back in the days of "Japanimation".. it is a completely different experience.
Originally published by Anime4Muslims on DeviantArt. Source: https://www.deviantart.com/anime4muslims/journal/Fist-of-the-North-Star-I-Primera-Espada-Stark-222551395. Original contributor: Imperius-Rex.