Lone Wolf and Cub- Sword of Vengance
Director: Misumi Kenji
Starring: Tomisaburô Wakayama
Falling into the same chambara genre as Lady Snowblood, this is the first in the Lone Wolf and Cub samurai swordplay series. These are based on the highly acclaimed manga series by the same name (which I have been meaning to get into for a long time).
Ogami Itto is an executioner for the shogun, meaning that he assists samurai who must committ seppuku (ritual suicide). When a new regime takes over, his clan and family are killed. He then makes a run for it, taking his son with him. He becomes an assassin for hire who seeks revenge for his family.
This movie was rough. There was violence, blood, and rape. The director really built a gritty world that resembles the lawlessness of the American wild west (not surprising, since westerns and samurai movies have many similarities).
This movie, though, was all about story and action. It was like watching a live action manga. The blood sprays, the facial expressions are over the top, and the bod count is astronomical. Itto takes on dozens of ronin and dominates them all. The fight scene in the river and the final showdown are especially impressive. This movie was energetic and fun. I'm interested in checking out more of this series when I'm in the mood for a samurai movie that's a little more exciting than a Kurosawa flick.
Lesson learned: Kaylen does not like these kinds of movies.
Yes. Your lesson learned is 110% accurate. Please never watch a movie like that in front of me again. I'll listen to you next time :)
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