Zatoichi the Blind Swordsman, Vol. 18 - Zatoichi and the Fugitives

Rating:
Summary: Powerful and Exciting
Review: The art of the samurai has always fascinated Western civilization, given that its only equivalent is the gunslinger from an era gone by. However, THE BLIND SWORDSMAN plays out a variation of A FISTFUL OF DOLLARS with wonderful poignancy and sterling performances from all players.

Zatoichi is a traveling masseur who happens, by circumstances beyond his control, becomes embroiled with a pack of thugs ... one of whom protects a secret surrounding the tiny village all characters find themselves in. Using his heightened senses of perception, 'Ichi' begins to unravel the mystery of a young woman, her ruthless brother, and the town doctor ... and bloodsheds aplenty!

With wonderful dialogue and beautiful observations, THE BLIND SWORDSMAN is an absolute delight in filmmaking. My only question is ... where's the DVD version?

Rating:
Summary: Excellent filming for 1968. More drama than action.
Review: This is just one of many in this series. If you like Japanese culture in the samurai era then you might find this entertaining. The main character Zatoichi is a blind wandering masseur. He has connections with gangsters who usually seek him for his ability with his cane sword others fear him for the same reason. Zatoichi is a very lovable character. you will find yourself wanting to see his many other adventures. I would recommend this video for anyone adding to their foreign film collection.