“Fist of the North Star” is a post-apocalyptic action movie from Japan. Although it is animated, this is not one for children because it contains incredibly graphic violence throughout. It’s not as charming as the films from Studio Ghibli or a visual treat like “Akira” but it is entertaining.

Set after a global nuclear holocaust, this movie follows martial artist warrior Kenshiro as he travels across what is left of the increasing barbaric world in the hopes of resurrecting plant life. When his girlfriend is kidnapped by his former-friend Shin, he will use his deadly skills to get her back and help revive the dying planet.

Kenshiro may not have the most interesting personality but he can sure pack a real punch. His martial arts abilities seem like an exaggerated version of the alleged ‘touch of death’ manoeuvre as he attacks his enemies and then seconds later, their heads explode in gory detail. You will seriously lose count of the number of bad guys that get their heads blown off or their bodies sliced into pieces. The animation on the characters is not as impressive as “Akira” or “Ghost In The Shell” but it’s still quite good. Keep an eye out for a brief background appearance by D from “Vampire Hunter D” as both movies were directed by Toyoo Ashida.

Clearly taking inspiration from the “Mad Max” movies, “Fist of the North Star” creates a satisfying post-apocalyptic action flick. Many people may be put off by the violence but I thought it was quite entertaining given just how ridiculous it is. I will admit that this movie did not grab me at first and it took a little while before I got into what was going on. The plot and the characters are a little stale but the world it creates and the action sequences are what sustained my interest.