User reviews

First of all, I'm a fan of the YYH anime, so was hard for me to not compare this mini-series to the anime. The story changes made was understandable to me. Especially, when it was obvious that Netflix wasn't going into the Dark Tournament saga.

There are some things this mini-series fail to deliver. I believe it was due to it being 5 episodes. One of YYH anime's highlights was the resonating backstory and motivations of the main antagonists, which the anime builds up as the story moves forward. But this mini-series failed to do that. They tried to do a quick retelling of younger Toguro's backstory with just few minutes of dialogue during the last episode. But that's weak. I think younger Toguro's backstory itself deserves one whole flashback episode. It might've made the climax battle and ending more emotionally impacting. In other words, in order for me to care about the deliverance of a tortured soul, I need to get to know the tortured soul first. If not, I won't care and don't know how to care about the deliverance. And again, this mini-series was just 5 episodes, maybe that's why they're forced to only use dialogue.

I wondered if this series was meant to be a one off and season 2 was never considered. It seemed to wrap up so nicely. Hopefully, it performs decent enough for a season 2. I want to see how Netflix would do Sensui (this antagonist is so emotionally scarred that he 7 personalities inside him). Please make at least 8-10 episodes if there's season 2, like One Piece or other Netflix original series.

I have watched many anime but never heard of this anime and today I randomly started watching this live action series on Netflix and really I loved it.

As a newcomer to the "Yu Yu Hakusho" universe, I found the Netflix series to be a pleasant surprise. The live-action adaptation seamlessly blends captivating visual effects with emotionally charged storylines. The VFX work is impressive, bringing the supernatural elements to life in a way that complements the narrative without overshadowing it.

The series introduces a fresh perspective for those unfamiliar with the original anime, making it accessible to a broader audience. The storytelling is engaging, weaving a tapestry of emotions that resonates with both seasoned fans and newcomers. The characters are well-portrayed, and the cast's performances contribute to the overall charm of the series.

In summary, the "Yu Yu Hakusho" Netflix series offers a compelling mix of VFX spectacle and heartfelt storytelling.

Yu Yu Hakusho's first episode sets a promising tone for the series, impressively capturing the essence of its original manga. The episode's lighting is a standout feature, with its use of darkness adding a layer of depth and intensity to the scenes. This is particularly evident during the fight sequences, where the lighting effectively enhances the action. The animation of the fighting scenes is remarkably smooth, showcasing fluid movements that keep the viewer engaged. This fluidity in combat sequences promises an exciting viewing experience, especially as the series progresses and the action intensifies.

Overall I liked the show, but unfortunately, as this was my first experience with the characters, having never read the manga or watched it, I felt it was severely lacking in character development. I could see how an avid fan might be a much bigger fan of the live action version but for me, when it came to the last episode I couldn't understand their emotions or drive and wasn't really invested. Generally I'm the that is completely taken over emotionally from stories like this but it just wasn't happening. Like I said before though, it was good, I did enjoy it, I wouldn't tell anyone it's not worth a watch, but maybe read the manga or watch the animated version before this one for more context on the backstory.

I appreciate and actually like the YuYu Hakusho LIVE action. I enjoyed watching it like the One Piece and Alice in Borderland LIVE action. I don't know why people keep comparing the anime since it's common sense that they cannot copy everything or exaggerate everything right? These are real people who are exerting their efforts to give us an 'adaptation' to remember the anime that we know. The sound and visual effects are excellent, and the actors portray their characters convincingly.. Why complain? I cannot believe some people rate this 1 or even below 7. They don't know what art and efforts are.

In this live-action interpretation of the Yu Yu Hakusho story, we follow the tale of up-to-no-good Yusuke and unlikely allies, who secretly has a good heart, and needs to come back from the spirit world to save the day from demons. That's the gist, and it's good.

So far, so manga slash anime. It becomes more interesting however, when our anti-hero needs to make ambigious choices that are neither good nor evil, and suit our newly-found spirit detective. And most of the time, he will need to make those choices mid-fight.

As usual I will refrain from comparing it to original source matter and give it a judgement based on what this mini-series give us in the now. In short, it's both cool and alive. The fighting scenes are special because of the demon element and our cast has great comedic timing. It's on the sugary side though, just so you know.

It all really plays for fun, laughs and spectacle, and as such, it succeeds with flying colors. Plotwise it's best not to expect the world. Lots of clichés, melodrama, gushing violins and pumping horns... this is the pop-version of Japanese stories.

Also, the added CGI is on the simplistic side. And the music... You know, there's plenty of niggles to give, especially in comparison to original source material. Yet overall, you can feel the fun factor in this production, and I just had a good time gobbling this up with glee.

Absolutely Entertaining! This is the right blend of Action & Fun. Without overdoing the VFX, the storyline is spot on, the action is captivating and emotion is just natural.

This series is a thrilling masterpiece, seamlessly blending captivating action sequences with top-notch VFX. The storyline is a rollercoaster of suspense and intrigue, keeping me hooked from start to finish.

Every episode unfolds with precision, revealing layers of a meticulously crafted plot. The lines are delivered with perfection, adding depth to the characters and enhancing the overall narrative.

A perfect fusion of action, visual effects, and storytelling makes this series a must-watch, setting a new fun standards for excellence in the realm of anime- entertainment.

Would love to get a Season 2.

Well Done Netflix!!

I don't care much about changing the original script to fit into just 5 episodes. However, he was run over, which had an impact on the final fight, it didn't cause that tense air of fear. Much of this factor was because it shortened the narrative a lot.

It's a shame it doesn't have at least 10~12 episodes, it would have been possible to improve this, following the recipe of the first two episodes which, despite adapting and summarizing, everything was fine.

Congratulations to the cast, you surprised me and the battle effects, especially Yusuke's initial fights and Karazu's fight at the end. Perfect choreography and using objects from the scene well, making it more dynamic than in the anime.

It was really great. Great action, solid acting, good cinematography. It feels like the japanese have finally woken up. They used to do cheap cinematography and kind of wooden acting. I feel like they were too comfortable sticking to 2000 style without a care . But probably after seeing other asian nations surpassing them they have become serious. Alice in borderland, first love:hatsukoi and now this series, it feels like japan has become serious to put budget and effort in their shows. I am really happy because of it. Just the other day i watched godzilla minus one and it also had phenomenal cinematography.

Although i am an anime fan, but my suggestion would be stop listening to typical anime nerds who always start yelling sarcastically hearing the word "live action". My advice would be watch this show. This show deserves high praise. I would be really sad if it doesn't get season 2 because enough people didn't give it a chance.

The Netflix adaptation of "Yu Yu Hakusho" wasn't perfect but wasn't bad. Those new to the anime might find it a bit confusing initially, but overall, it should still be entertaining. On the other hand, fans of the anime and manga might feel that it rushes through the storyline and doesn't stay entirely true to the source material, by cramming nearly 70 episodes of the anime into five live-action episodes, creating a feature length experience if seen in one sitting. And though it keeps out many aspects from the original. It manages to retain the fundamental essence of "Yu Yu Hakusho."

The decision to exclude certain elements was interesting as animes often involve lengthy story arcs and characters that don't easily transition to live action and instead of prolonging fights across many episodes, the series combines different story elements into one cohesive storyline, which works effectively, but feels rushed. But, with only 5 episodes there's isn't much room for more.

Visually the show is quite good, although there's a moment where the CGI reminded me of the fight scene between Neo and Agent Smith in "The Matrix," giving off a video game cutscene vibe. But, it still manages to be really cool. The "One Piece" live-action adaptation was a significant improvement in bringing some eccentric anime characters and fights into live action and "Yu Yu Hakusho" is no different. The characters, especially the villains, are well-designed, and the fight sequences are very well executed and choreographed. But, like many anime adaptations, it still carries a certain cringe factor that seems to be inevitable.

Overall, despite deviating from the source material, the live-action adaptation of "Yu Yu Hakusho" offers a pretty enjoyable experience for both newcomers and fans seeking a nostalgic journey. However, it's possible that more hardcore fans might not fully embrace the adaptation due to its differences. Either way, it's a step forward for anime adaptations!

When I first watched the trailer I was sceptical about this live-action, I even talked to some of my friends asking them "how do you think Netflix is going to adapt X or Y?" and by that I mostly mean the kind of humour that would be considered offensive and completely contrary to Netflix's history.

Unfortunately, both for us Yuu Yuu Hakusho fans and people that never watched or read it before, Netflix took the worst path.

In these five episodes, Netflix managed to cramp basically the same amount of chapters that its One Piece live action did, in YYH's case a little over 100 chapters, in One Piece's a little under 100 chapters. So, yes, they cut A LOT of content, not only the story was harmed, character development, the relevance of some early moments to later pay backs. Overall, this is a very bad adaptation job.

Up until episode 3, I had my doubts, but I was really expecting that this live action would adapt only the Spirit Detective Saga, sure it would be as spread as the manga and they would even have to squeeze what was shown in the anime, but sure 5 episodes for the first saga was doable, after all we are talking 50 chapters. However, episode 4 makes official they will be adapting the first and the second saga, skipping A LOT of arcs. One fight on episode 4 kinda gives you the feeling of what happened in the anime/manga, the other doesn't. Episode 5, then, is terrible, if you watched the anime you tediously watch it and think "yeah... that happened in the anime, but here it is so watered down it is not even interesting".

Do yourselves a favour and watch the anime over this terrible adaptation. The Dark Tournament is the best Tournament arc in anime history, Yuu Yuu Hakusho definitely nailed that arc. This live action was a waste of time.

I am not even going to talk about the actors because there is only so much you can do with such a flawed script.

The plot may be thin and felt so rushed up but the fights to me is just a fun ride. Great watch just for those action sequences. Kudos to the choreographer and the camera angles because they produced something so fluid and I can actually see how they "danced".

As for the story. When I heard that it would just be 5 episodes I didn't think it could do any good but I did try to keep hope up and well the plot line needs more work but I'm pleasantly surprised to find the whole thing watchable. They don't dig in deep but it's still easy to keep up. I do lament the lack of time to get to know more of some of the leads though.

The VFX bordering on uncanny is doable. I like the color gradient they chose. There wasn't any point where I went "TOO DARK" because I can actually see. They didn't hide the VFX under darkness and you know what. Kudos.

Warning: Bright flashing lights sequence in ep 1. Also had plenty of blood if you're queasy on that.

The series in question is an adaptation of a popular work about thirty years ago, the original work is rich in story, characters and fights, however, this live action adaptation is not up to the standard of the original work.

First of all, the series is not faithful to the original work, this has created a product that is not comparable to the original work.

Secondly, the series lacks much of the story of the work it is based on. The series focuses only on some events, however neglecting a lot of the original story, just think that the entire final part is completely absent, but it is just an example of the numerous cuts to the story.

Furthermore this live action is not suitable for those unfamiliar with the original work, as it does not provide a satisfactory introduction to the story and characters.

And there are also other defects that I won't list so as not to make my review too long.

I have never left a single review in my life but due to my personal connection to thhis series since my childhood and being the show who basically defined the code I live by in mu life I feel entitled to do so.

Actors, you totally nailed it! This us it this is their personality everything is there, the visual effects are stunning, the fighting scenes make even avengers shy, the music, wow, kuwabara gave me chills!

Make up translates what anime would look like in real world witout making it silly.

Wow moments come again and again it never gets boring.

You guys made a memory that I will take with me to my life, thank you to everyone involved.

For the first time knowing there was anime called Yu Yu Hakusho, it might be not a good live action. Although the CGI in this live-action is very good, I belive the storyline seemed to be a problem.

I just felt like everything runs too fast and having bad plotting. It just does not feel right. Maybe because they are trying to capture live-action whiting 5 eps.

The character is too flat, I do not get any emotional moment. I do not think to watch second season, except they improve many aspects. My judgment is not based anime, but I just watch this without any preferences before.

You still can watch this even you did not watch the anime, but a lot of potential has wasted.

I'm a diehard Yu Yu Hakusho fan, and here's why everything is great: - The nostalgia in this absolutely cooks. The 1st episode legit made me cry. Live action wake scene + some of the best characters in anime = pain. - Everyone is talking about it. Togashi the creator who's married to Sailor Moon, has been living with chronic health issues. He's creating some of the best work in all of manga history through deep ethical issues to power systems that have been adapted into modern anime such as JJK. Togashi is a man that deserves this success. - So many companies have announced new Yu Yu Hakusho merchandise, a void that has existed for years and monopolized by 3rd party has finally been filled for the first time in decades. - The acting is good. - The show's creative decisions leaves room for a new take on the dark tournament which can now be done with a much bigger budget. - My younger siblings and the next generation has some modern exposure to the greatest characters of all time.

I'm so happy for the future of this brand.

This most be renewed or I will be mad :(!!

The live-action adaptation of "Yu Yu Hakusho" brings the cherished manga series into the real world with a commendable level of sincerity and dedication. It's clear that the creators have made significant efforts to stay true to the original material, and this authenticity shines throughout the work.

One of the most striking features of the film is its special effects. They are nothing short of spectacular, capturing the fantastical elements of the source material with a vibrancy that is sure to captivate audiences. Alongside the visual prowess, the action sequences and fight choreography are surprisingly well-crafted, exceeding expectations. Some of the longer battle scenes are choreographed with a level of creativity and finesse that is both unexpected and exhilarating, serving as a highlight of the adaptation.

However, the film does suffer from certain drawbacks, primarily in the character designs. Some viewers may find that the appearances of the main characters are too cartoonish or even leaning towards cosplay, which can make it difficult for the audience to fully immerse themselves in the story. The exaggerated nature of the character designs may detract from the emotional connection that viewers typically seek in a live-action adaptation.

Additionally, due to the constraints of the film medium, the complex and expansive story of "Yu Yu Hakusho" has been condensed to fit the running time. As a result, there is a loss of narrative depth, particularly in the development of the characters. The nuances of their personalities and evolutions over time, which were so prominent in the manga, may not be as pronounced in the live-action adaptation. This could leave viewers longing for a deeper connection to the characters they have come to know and love.

Despite these limitations, for those with a pre-existing relationship with the manga, the live-action adaptation offers a powerful dose of nostalgia. Seeing the story unfold in this new format can be a deeply emotional experience, as it taps into the fond memories associated with the original series.

In conclusion, while the "Yu Yu Hakusho" live-action adaptation may not capture the full complexity of its characters and suffers from some shortcomings in character design, it stands as a visually impressive and heartfelt homage to its source material. The film's special effects and action sequences are standout features, and its nostalgic appeal will likely be enjoyed by fans of the original series, as well as those seeking a fresh take on the supernatural adventures of Yusuke Urameshi and his comrades.

Okay I've read the manga and watched the show so trust if you're looking for an EXACT replica of either you won't walk away happy. However if you come in expecting things to be changed, because it's an ADAPTATION of the original story, you will be blown away by the quality of this show. The first episode alone shows that they weren't going with the original story but the combination of great acting (from the majority of the cast) who did a phenomenal job portraying their characters regardless of story changes and the talented team behind the cameras will blow you away. It's a 5 episode miniseries and while they don't cover every single point in the exact way the original show did it truly is the best live action adaptation I've seen of a manga/anime yet.

This show has me conflicted, I'm not really a fan of live action remakes of anime, but they've done some good here. The character design is pretty good, they kept certain esthetics really true. Also, the effects and the fights they incorporated brought some difficult fantasy elements to life that were really satisfying to see recreated and I thought were done pretty well overall.

The bad is they butchered the whole story arch of the anime. They ruin the dark tournament arch which is the best part of the anime IMO. Honestly feels to me like I watched a very long, very well done fan made trailer for a live action Yu Yu Hakusho show. You don't really get the same feel or familiarity with the characters as you do with the show. The pacing is so fast it drains the story of all the stakes and tension that are methodically built up in the anime. It's a real shame, all the things they do well are kind of a tease because it just breezes through and cuts out so much good content. I'm assuming they believed this show would be a one season and done event, so they did what they could. I applaud them for the effort, just sad they couldn't take their time and do the story justice. I really hope they can get the resources to maybe restart from the beginning and do it the right way, that would honestly be amazing.

OK so I watched episode 1 and I was like: THEY MADE IT. Its freaking good and so faithfull to the anime but then episode 2 to 5 just felt everything was really jammed in one season but only 4 episodes I dont know why the heck they would skip the Genkai tournament. There is so much humor and action in that...ALSO a great villain RANDO...

Also Karazu and Bui on the yukina mission? Wtf???

So im guesssing there will not be a Dark Torunament? Just the greatest moment of the anime...cause toguro and his team are all already dead

Im guessing if there more seasons to come it will only be 2 cause we only have Sensui saga now and the demon world tournament saga that is really short already...

really what happened? This should be a 12 episodes season ending in the dark tournament or something. Why everything I watch this days always feels like Im about to be happy but Im not.

Good points first then: Cgi was good, the actors were also good though the actor playing Botan didnt give off the Botan feeling, she was cute though. The horror version of yu yu hakusho I really liked and had the right sort of reality I'd expect to a yokai storyline. Very well executed in that respect.

Bad points: they messed up the story line. They cut out almost everything, and then smashed what was left together, to create a messy, rushed story that barely could be called Yu Yu Hakusho.

They should have stuck to the storyline, divided it up into seasons and not disappoint millions of fans with half-a work. So, a waste of time for die hard fans, but I suppose a good time if you are new to it.