'The Tale Of Zatoichi (1962)' kicks off a series of twenty-six samurai films, twenty-five of which were made in a timespan of just eleven years. Thankfully, though, it doesn't feel full of set-up; in fact, it feels completely self-contained. That's probably because it was only after the flick's success that its follow-ups were conceived. It's a meditative experience, loosely based on a short story written in 1948, that really takes its time to develop its central character. Shintarô Katsu portrays the blind swordsman with restraint and, when necessary, quick-moving confidence. The narrative takes him from hustling a dice game to denouncing his 'Yakuza' status, dealing with themes of honour and - perhaps surprisingly - friendship along the way. It's these elements, as well as a pseudo romance, that really make their mark, as they're consistently believable and crescendo in a fantastically tragic finale. Of course, the more-infrequent-than-expected sword battles are handled with a realistic speed and definitive finality, too. Basically, they always mean something. The overall experience is an entertaining and affecting one. It is slightly baggy and, even, slow in its mid-section, but it's an enjoyable and uniquely subtle samurai tale nevertheless. Hopefully, it marks the start of a fantastic franchise. 7/10.
Review of The Tale of Zatoichi
