The ‘Shadow Strays’ is simply a great action flick with an outstanding well driven story of hope and transformation. It maps the life of Codename 13, a 17-year-old hit woman who must face up to her conscience after a failed operation in Japan. She creates a believable relationship with Monji, a tragic eleven year old boy who has lost his mother to a crime syndicate and thus becomes her motivation to rebel against her organization and master, in order to save him.
The action is extremely well done with some kickass fight scenes and some high octane stunts to show off 13’s abilities while a seed of conscience is growing in her. The film and video work well together and the camerawork and cutting capture both action and calmness of combat. During the course of her mission revenge is paramount with elements of loyalty, betrayal, and stress on the main character.
There is nice character drawing and certain measure of emotional understanding, however, some of the story lines are predictable, and some of the secondary characters are not very vividly depicted. However, there are some problems which are installed by the leading actress in changing the image of the ‘13’ character from the killer to the bodyguard. “The Shadow Strays” raises questions about choice and spirit in the brutally violent world, should attract those who seek the blend of action and feelings.
