I love the Zatoichi movies, though I have found that because they made so many and the plots tended to blend together so often, it is hard to distinguish them apart. I would give all of them about the same score of a 7 or an 8--with a few exceptions (the return of the original in 1989 was a TERRIBLE and depressing movie, while the new Zatoichi movie starring Beat Takeshi is probably the best of any Zatoichi movies).
Why did I like this one best? Well, first it was certainly different in that Zatoichi becomes involved in destroying an illicit pornography ring (albiet the pornography is on decorative plates)--apparently during that era, pornography was dealt with by DEATH! When Zatoichi gets pulled into this, he learns that the man he is seeking to help is being forced against his will to make this smutty art pottery. So, of course, Zatoichi helps the man escape from the evil warlord and all is well, right?! NOPE--and this leads to the single best confrontation in the history of these Zatoichi flicks. Zatoichi's refusal to turn this man over to the undercover agent for execution is something you shouldn't miss. I won't say more, but assure you this movie really delivers!
Why did I like this one best? Well, first it was certainly different in that Zatoichi becomes involved in destroying an illicit pornography ring (albiet the pornography is on decorative plates)--apparently during that era, pornography was dealt with by DEATH! When Zatoichi gets pulled into this, he learns that the man he is seeking to help is being forced against his will to make this smutty art pottery. So, of course, Zatoichi helps the man escape from the evil warlord and all is well, right?! NOPE--and this leads to the single best confrontation in the history of these Zatoichi flicks. Zatoichi's refusal to turn this man over to the undercover agent for execution is something you shouldn't miss. I won't say more, but assure you this movie really delivers!