Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on February 2014

Manga by Osamu Tezuka, the legendary innovator and popularizer of the genre, have been made into films for many years now. The current film series is based on his grand comic book run (1972-1983) on the life of Siddartha Gautama, the historical Buddha. The series sold over 20 million copies, and in some ways Tezuka considered it his crowning achievement. The film trilogy superimposes the life of Siddartha over a fictional war between his home kingdom of Shakya and the nearby one of Kosala. The first film (2011) set up the youth of Siddartha and his quest for spiritual enlightenment. Director Toshiaki Komura again takes the reins, working with a screenplay from renowned scriptwritter Reiko Yoshida (Dragon Ball Z). The story builds up a cast of fictional characters, good and evil, who have helped or harmed the Buddha, his allies or his kingdom. This installment focuses on Buddha’s quest and the war that Shakya is losing. The possible downfall can be blamed on Siddartha, who abdicated his throne in his search for Nirvana. With an artistic style that is a conscious throwback to Tezuka’s ’70s and ’80s renderings, and a majestic 5th century story, the work feels both wonderfully retro and awesomely epic. With its accessible Buddhism, pop fight scenes and melodrama, this one will please those looking for light entertainment with a message. English title: Buddha 2: Endless Journey (85 min.)