Zatoichi (2003)

[XeroXtancy]

Zatoichi (2003)
By: XeroXtancy

Foreword: This review will attempt to be as detailed as possible without plot disclosure. Be forewarned, minor spoilers may be noted.

Synopsis
Before the Tokugawa period... a time where villainous orginazations are the authorities. By commissioning methods of murders and assassinations, these organizations are able to impose fearful laws and policies towards poor peasants for their beneficial gains. The Kuchinawa clan is an example of such atrocious organization. For many years, the people of a poor village was kept on their knees to the clan. They were taxed, degenerated and mistreated.

One blind old-aged man will put an end to this. He is the legendary swordsman that many seem to have forgotten. But this time, he will remind those filled with hatred of his name. He will run into two bizarre geishas, an old woman and an incompetent gamber along his journey. It is another compelling story of the journey of the legendary swift swordsman - Zatoichi.

Review
First of all, if you have yet to view any of the old Zatoichi films, you are missing out upon the classics! I have always been a fan of pre-modern Japanese films. Hearing news of the infamous director Takeshi Kitano in the mist of producing a Zatoichi film and starring in it as well, I quickly got off my feet and research for as much as I can. Needless to say, I have been a big fan of many of his works. So, undoubting, I was assured that he have produced another great feature.

Those of you that are into more of quick-action paced types of films may discover that this film to be unfitting. It does contain a few sword fights and gore, but not to a large extent. Instead, Kitano focuses more on the storyline; using many detailed scenarios, we are able grasps the aspect imagery of the period. The plot is straight forward with a few twists and turns to keep you wanting to view more. What you predict will surprise you even more at the end.

There is not any profound music or composition in the film so it may sound monotonous at times. We are introduce to rather traditional types of pieces. Many scenarios are played by the shamisen, three strings instrument often played by geishas, creating a customary and acceptable setting for the film. Once more, adding to that traditional and pre-modern feeling.

'Classic' is defined as "lasting significance or worth; enduring of time". Those of who are a fan on the genre will find this film to be beyond comparison. Others might just see another old flick that is drudging.

[kainan]

great movies..

[Hyde0104]

This the story : The original series of 26 films featured Shintaro Katsu as Zatoichi. The first film was made in 1962 in black and white. The third film, in 1963, was the first to be filmed in color. The twenty-fifth film was made in 1973, and there was a pause of some 16 years before Katsu's last film, in 1989, which he directed himself.

The original series of movies features other popular fictional characters of the genre on two occasions: Zatoichi and the One Armed Swordsman (1971) connects with the Shaw Brothers series of Hong Kong produced movies directed by prolific director Chang Cheh. Zatoichi Meets Yojimbo (1970) features Toshiro Mifune playing a character named Sassa who bears a striking resemblance to his role as Sanjuro from the Akira Kurosawa films Yojimbo (lit. "bodyguard") and its sequel Sanjuro.

The series has also had wide spread influences on non-Japanese films. The 1989 film Blind Fury featuring Rutger Hauer as a blind swordsman in contemporary America is based on the screenplay of Zatoichi Challenged (1967) with elements of other films of the series.

Nevertheless, Zatoichi is but one of a surprising number of blind heroes with superhuman fighting skills that have emerged throughout history, and while predated by such characters as the pulp fiction and comic book heroes The Black Bat and Doctor Mid-Nite respectively, is followed by the likes of Daredevil. The 1970s television series Kung Fu features a blind Shaolin priest also possessing amazing martial arts skills.

[markofdragon]

The new one sucked compared to the originals...sorry to say.

[bloodrooted]

Great director, but not his best movie.

[birutilla]

it´s a great movie, and have this innocent sense of humor tipical from japan

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there is a serie also, or only the movie?

[Kaze-kun1]

it was ok a little awkward at times but i wouldnt rate it as horrible.

[StriclyR]

I just discovered Zatoichi. Glad I did! I started me looking for many other films in that vein such as Lone Wolf and Cub. Any other recommends?

[VIERAN]

thanks for sharing.