The Tale of Zatoichi (1962)

Good idea lost in the noise

This is a tender, generous movie that likes its characters and presents them as real people, full of flaws and strengths.

The movie really just wants to entertain people.

Each character in this movie — down to the smallest one — is an individual rather than a type, prone to spontaneous changes of mood and sometimes amusing outbursts of pettiness or ill humor.

The Tale of Zatoichi is the first in a long series of samurai movies centered around the blind gambler and masseur turned lowly yakuza who has a strong moral compass and makes us feel empathic not because he is blind and underestimated but because he is brave and honest as he always tries to do the right thing. This first movie is one out of two shot in black and white and has a unique atmosphere that makes life in rural Japan come to life in an authentic manner. This film shows how Zatoichi gets caught up in a war between two rival gangs. Even though he isn't respected by the gang he is supposed to represent and uncovers unfair gambling methods, misogyny and murder, he has accepted the fate that he has to live the life of a lowly criminal that he never really wanted. He develops a profound friendship with the rival's ronin who suffers from tuberculosis as they have similar values and share a passion for fishing and sake. However, one day, the two friends know they must face each other in a decisive battle.There are several elements that make this movie so outstanding. First of all, the film's authentic settings bring the culture and history of rural Japan to life in a very authentic way. Secondly, the protagonist convinces as a man who relies on his moral compass and cleverness first and foremost and only draws a sword if he doesn't have any other choice. Thirdly, the numerous side characters are quite interesting as well, especially Zatoichi's wise opponent Hirate, the ruthless criminal Tate and his proud but desperate sister Otane who ends up falling in love with Zatoichi. Fourthly, the dialogues are really to the point and add something to characters and plot unlike many contemporary martial arts flicks. Fifthly, the few fight sequences in the movie are carefully choreographed and would go on to inspire any other genre film that would follow this movie.By today's standards, The Tale of Zatoichi might not be the most vivid genre film but it's crafted in an artistic, detailed and intellectual manner that still stands out far over five decades after its initial release. Any martial arts fan should give this movie a chance. I would highly recommend the stunning Criterion Collection of the Zatoichi movies that truly offers value for money. Movies of this quality are rarely made nowadays and should be hold in high regard.

THE TALE OF ZATOICHI is an action drama, which shows, in a striking way, an inner struggle of a blind man. The blind masseur Zatoichi is hired by a yakuza gang-leader, because of the inevitable war with a neighboring gang. Zatoichi has a distinguished reputation as a swordsman. Their rival responds by hiring a ronin of similar repute. Zatoichi is a humble and honest man. These characteristics are not welcome in the criminal circles of society. However, a ronin, who is hired by the opposing gang, has similar characteristics. Though he and Zatoichi know they must fight when the war begins, they develop a kind of friendship...This film has a similar theme as "Sanjuro" and "Yojimbo", but its creation and characterization are different. This is a samurai story, in which the main protagonist is not a samurai. This change has brought a melodramatic refreshment.Shintaro Katsu as Zatoichi is a surreal and peaceful character. The man, who is trying to find his inner peace and meaning is in a contrast to his surrounding. His blindness is actually an advantage, based on which he will show his skills. He changes his mood, when a melodramatic story gets its brutal and bloody endgame. He becomes a lone wolf who does not want to socialize with ordinary dogs.Shigeru Amachi as Miki Hirate is a good support as a drunk and sick ronin. His life is hanging between his honor and a sword of his rival. Masayo Banri as Otane is a beautiful girl who fell in love with the character of a blind man. A melancholic end, in which the blind swordsman runs away from his species is very touching.

I decided to sit down and watch this because I found out about Zatoichi meets Yojimbo (1970) and I decided to pick that up but I wanted to watch a Zatoichi movie before I watch Zatoichi Meets Yojimbo and I did and for a period piece/samurai epic - I'd recommend it if you are a fan of the genre.Okay so the story as a war between gangs is brewing a blind man who practiced and perfected the art of sword-fighting is asked (actually, more along the lines of forced) to stay at one of the gang's hideout so he can freeload and be their secret weapon in the war. While the other gang is doing the same thing with another master swordsman. While Zatoichi is fishing he has a conversation with the other swordsman and they become good friends. Zatoichi then guesses correctly that the other swordsman is sick and dying of consumption. As the war brews will the 2 leading characters be forced to kill each other?If there is any scene in which I didn't like it enough for me to point out it's actually the very first scene of the movie. Zatoichi begins to gamble in a dice game and the dice aren't covered by the cup only to be revealed that he was playing them all along and has 2 identical dice literally up his sleeve. The reason why I didn't like that scene is that it kind of contradicts Zatoichi's character. Although he is a gangster he does have a good moral code and in the end, he will try to do what is right but would you ever guess that he was the good guy by the scene that I described?In terms of what I liked, The relationship between the two samurai for one thing. It does get across pretty well this relationship as well as the rather conflicting feelings they have at the thought of them having to go up against one another. It does offer some good drama (and to their credit the actors do very good jobs). The sword-fight choreography is on par with a Kurosawa movie and even though I didn't like the opening scene I do like Zatoichi's character.Aside from that all I have left to say is that if you liked Kurosawa's samurai movies then this is worth checking out. I mean while this movie is NOTHING in comparison with the aforementioned movies I will most certainly say if you like those then there is a pretty good chance you'll like this.

This is the introduction of the blind samurai. It led to a cottage industry in Japan. It involves a nondescript blind swordsman/masseuse who has traveled to see a friend. The man is a gangster and has ulterior motives. He knows that an upcoming confrontation with another gang lord will happen and he wants Zatoichi on his side. Despite his infirmity, he is a master of the sword and would provide a great advantage to someone using his talents. The movie is mostly about the lowlife gangs and their lack of compunction and dedication. The Bosses are pigs, self centered and unsympathetic to their minions. Loyalties are tested and power is the central issue. There is more than one cowardly act and in the end, the two most noble of them all must fight on their own terms and not align themselves with the miscreant factions. A pretty good character is born in this film.