The Tale of Zatoichi Continues

Never mind the first film to take its time in introducing the character to us, of which I am glad that it didn't rush. Now that we and the others in the film "know" him ( although part of the fun is that nobody is really able to know him and his skill really) the film goes to hyperdrive mode straightaway.

It's fascinating to see this in retrospect, knowing it is a long franchise, and trying to map out the development and where the film and its success came from. Inthink the first film is strong because it takes its time in creating its own universe, simply so that the sequels don't have to work so hard in setting things up. It's nice, and so is the self-reference it allows both in humour and mythology, but the films quickly morph into each other. It doesn't seem to be a problem here, since aren't all series all about working for or against the set rules and archetypes in the previous films?

Anyway, I think the two films have very well set up Zatoichi's blindness as a metaphor, yet it's the first film that's more ambitiously conceived. In this respect these two first films are like "Yojimbo" and "Sanjuro", Kurosawa's duology. The last shot of this film, however, is one of the coolest film moments I know of. Seriously. That last five seconds.

'The Tale Of Zatoichi Continues (1962)' works both as a stand-alone experience and a direct continuation of its predecessor, playing with similar themes but framing them through a lens soaked with regret. It's a shorter, more action-packed affair but it's still primarily a character study. The eponymous stoic swordsman unwillingly gets caught up in the kind of trouble that forces him to show off his skills, which tend to swiftly and decisively resolve his immediate issues. Most of his introspection surrounds the melancholy of the last movie's events. Towards the end, however, a new relationship is revealed that threatens to see history repeat itself. Katsu, who's still fantastic in the role, is joined by his brother - perhaps better known for the much pulpier 'Lone Wolf and Cub (1972-1976)' series - which results in most of the film's emotion. It's rather resonant, leaving the entire experience tinged in sadness. The focus on character is, essentially, what makes the film so successful. You care about all the major players and their struggles resonate with you. The narrative moves almost as swiftly as Zatoichi's sword, ultimately coming to an incredibly abrupt end, and it balances its tone perfectly. It isn't groundbreaking but it's very enjoyable. It's also very well-made. Its crisp black-and-white cinematography is often highlighted by stunning chiaroscuro lighting and absolutely perfect composition, its dialogue is to the point but never on the nose, and its acting is subtle but successful. When it comes to the action, the thing doesn't disappoint, either. Most of it is shot wide, allowing you to see every quick-moving moment uninterrupted, and the choreography dances between unbearable anticipation and samurai-slaying pay-off impeccably. It isn't perfectly clean, with the villains scrambling about in fear before they make their ill-fated attempt on our often almost clumsy but always keenly aware protagonist, which lends a lot of credence to the fact that it's supposed to involve a highly feared yet blind man. Overall, the picture is very entertaining. It won't change your life, but it'll make you smile more than once. 7/10

This movie is, I guess, the first of the very long & very excellent zato-ichi series starring the incomparable Shintaro Katsu who also starred in the shorter but every bit as impressive if quite different series: The Razor. I lived in San Francisco in the 1960s & 1970s & used to go watch these films every week at the Japanese theater in the old "Japan Town". Loved them then, love them now. This film in particular is a classic in every way: cinematographically it looks like Eisenstein - every shot a classic. The compositions, textures & tonalities are breathtakingly beautiful. Dramatically, it's every bit as gripping as Yojimbo or the best Ford westerns (e.g. Stagecoach). And finally the sword-fight choreography - None better. Terrific movie!

In the 1960s and 70s, the Japanese made about 500000 Zatoichi films (or so it seems) and I have thoroughly enjoyed them all, even though after a while they all seem to blend together in my mind. Some viewers, like me, will like the familiarity of the character and story, while I am sure others will feel like "if you've seen one you've seen them all". Regardless of your opinion, they are all well-constructed and fun to watch even if the basic premise of the greatest swordsman being totally blind is ridiculous--you just need to suspend disbelief and enjoy.

This is an early installment of the series and it's better than average because it actually has some continuity--making reference to the prior film in the series. Here, in a follow-up, you see Zatoichi pining for a long lost love and having an ultimate showdown with his main rival. Along the way, he falls afoul of a clan who is trying to kill him to keep their secret (their leader "has issues"). And, as usual, the film is filled with amazing sword fights as well as tender moments. This one won't disappoint and is one of the better Zatoichi films.

Seen on YouTube in black and white and, checking on IMDb, it is in black and white. Beautiful music as usual, captivating story as usual, good acting and, especially, notable female beauties such as Masayo Banri and Yaeko Mizutani, two very beautiful Japanese women. Mixture inspired by drama and action, worth seeing.