The Shogun's Vault (1964)
Okawa Hashizo is 'Red Peony' Hanji who is thrown into a prison cell where he gets involved in a plot to steal government gold from the Shogun's vault. A tough fighter, he has to show his ability in order to keep from getting himself killed by the prisoners, too. Co-starring some of the biggest name in movies at the time, including Kataoka Chiezo and Tanba Tetsuro this film is loaded with surprises. From the opening moments when prisoners carry out their own form of justice, killing a crooked ex-constable, it is clear that this is the work of a visionary filmmaker.
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The movie is made so realistic it has a lot of that WoW feeling at the right moments and never tooo over the top. the suspense is done so well and the emotion is felt. Very well put together with the music and all.
what a terribly boring film. I'm sorry but this is absolutely not deserving of best picture and will be forgotten quickly. Entertaining and engaging cinema? No. Nothing performances with flat faces and mistaking silence for subtlety.
Actress is magnificent and exudes a hypnotic screen presence in this affecting drama.
By the time the dramatic fireworks start popping off, each one feels earned.
Just uploaded the image here for this fantastic little seen gem. Okawa Hashizo stars as 'Red Peony' Hanji who is thrown into a crowded & brutal prison cell. A superior fighter, he earns respect enough to keep himself safe among the cut-throat group, who carry out their own form of violent justice. Once released Hanji gets involved in an intricate plot to steal government gold from the Shogun's vault deep within the palace fortress. Co-starring with outstanding performances Kataoka Chiezo, Hanji's partner in crime and detective, Tanba Tetsuro never far behind them. Loaded with surprising touches and moments, the excellent absorbing tale slowly builds momentum into a gripping, very suspenseful, highly entertianing action packed film. Masterly crafted a fabulous ground-breaking early work from director Teruo Ishii, who would later become known as "The King of Cult". for his original eclectic cinematic style. Highly Recommended !!