# Baki Hanma vs Kengan Ashura Review: An Underwhelming Clash of Titans
**Rating: 3/5**
The eagerly awaited clash between the iconic *Baki Hanma* and *Kengan Ashura* franchises finally arrives in this new anime film. Despite the exciting premise, the film takes its time to develop and only partially lives up to the expectations of both series' legacies.
## Story
The film sets the stage for a colossal battle between Baki Hanma and Ohma Tokita (Kengan Ashura). Representing their respective realms of intense martial arts and underground fighting arenas, this match is heralded as the ultimate test of strength and skill.
## Review
### The Return of the Icons
Fans will be excited to see the return of characters like Ohma Tokita, Metsudo Katahara, and Mitsunari Tokugawa. These key figures from the Ashura and Hanma worlds are essential in establishing the competitive spirit that drives the plot. However, brief appearances by characters such as Sea Emperor Kaku, Retsu, and Jaku feel lackluster and contribute little to the storyline.
### Voice Acting
Nobunaga Shizamaki and Tatsuhisa Suzuki reprise their roles as Baki Hanma and Kengan Ashura, delivering exceptional performances that remain true to the franchise. Their vocal presence adds depth to their characters, enhancing the impact of their eventual showdown.
### Pacing and Build-up
The film begins with an earthquake, a classic motif in the Baki universe that signals imminent chaos. As the story unfolds, familiar faces reappear, and the build-up to the anticipated clash progresses. However, this build-up feels excessively prolonged, taking an hour before the main action begins.
### Fights and Action
The initial fights, such as Saw Paing Yoroizuka versus Kaouru Hanayama, provide surprising twists and plenty of violence and gore, aligning with the WWE-like brutality fans expect. The confrontation between Julius Reinhold and Biscuit Olivia, mediated by Goki Shibukawa, adds another layer of tension.
Raian Kure and Jack Hammer's demon-like personas and intense fighting style bring a visceral thrill to the screen. However, the exaggerated effects, such as glowing punches, may seem overdone to some viewers. The backstory and emotional stakes are well-crafted, providing a solid foundation for their conflict.
### The Main Event
The long-awaited showdown between Baki Hanma and Ohma Tokita is a fast-paced spectacle. Their contrasting fighting techniques and training philosophies are showcased brilliantly. Despite the seemingly one-sided nature of the fight, a supernatural twist keeps the audience engaged.
### Surprise Appearances and Final Moments
Yujiro Hanma’s unexpected entry raises the stakes, shifting the dynamic from junior versus junior to junior versus senior. His brief appearance, even in a softer era, reaffirms his dominance and sets the stage for future conflicts.
Gensai "The Devil Lance" Kuroki’s dramatic entrance from the dust is another highlight, marking him as a significant player in the story.
### Soundtrack
The opening and closing themes will please longtime fans with their familiarity, even if they lack strong visual accompaniments. The music complements the film's tone, enhancing the viewing experience.
### Humor and Relief
Attempts at humor, such as the competition between Adam Dudley and Chiharu Shiba, fall flat. The jokes feel outdated and fail to provide the intended relief in the tense atmosphere.
## Verdict
While *Baki Hanma vs Kengan Ashura* has its moments, it struggles to meet the high standards set by its predecessors. The extended build-up and occasional pacing issues detract from the overall experience. However, the film succeeds in maintaining the core themes of power, respect, and the relentless pursuit of martial excellence. For fans committed to following the storyline, this film is worth a watch, albeit with tempered expectations.
In summary, *Baki Hanma vs Kengan Ashura* offers glimpses of brilliance but ultimately falls short of delivering the knockout punch that fans of both franchises were hoping for.