I bought the Criterion Bluray set,one of my best purchases ever,but mostly so I could get my hands on this movie,possibly the best in the series,and in the top 10 best Chambara flicks ever. Shintaru was in charge on this,and it shows,it has everything Zatoichi fans love,gambling,comedy,some pathos,villainy and great swordsmanship,and boy,does this flick deliver the goods! If you like Samurai cinema,this one is one of the essentials,completely engaging,action entertainment of the finest sort. The director went on to direct the Lone Wolf and Cub series,so you know you are in for a good time,it has some wild imagery,furious jaw dropping swordplay and some nice crimson too! This flick ROCKS!
