The Tale of Zatoichi (1962)

Purely Joyful Movie!

Memorable, crazy movie

hyped garbage

Am i the only one who thinks........Average?

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.

This movie, in my opinion was among some of the first movies in popular western culture to provide fodder for westerns, and action films, which shamelessly stole from traditional Japanese themes and stories. It's touching, deep, and yet whimsical. it has a gravity of it's own.NOTE: if ANYONE can tell me where I can the find the sound track to this film done by Akira Ifukube, I would be really grateful. especially the music that comes in at exactly 20:00 of the film. it is one of the greatest passages of movie music I have ever heard, as Ichi describes his lost love. does anyone know what the piece itself is called?thanks!

This Zatoichi movie was the first in the long series. As I had seen MOST of the movies before I saw this film, I think my expectations were a bit too high. This is not to say that this is a bad movie--it certainly is not. However, it seems only average when compared with the others. Also, a few scenes were later repeated and so there weren't that many surprises. One scene in particular, where he is gambling and "accidentally" drops the dice OUTSIDE the cup when he is gambling (i.e., every seeing person there sees whether or not the dice are odds or evens before they bet--so it's an apparent "sure thing") has been used at least three times in his movies. Plus, this isn't exactly one of the better scenes, because it makes Ichi look like a cheater and not the defender of the friendless (as he's usually portrayed). Still, it's a solid film throughout.FYI--if you pay attention, you'll notice that in many scenes Ichi has a shaved head, while in others he has very substantial stubble. Due to editing errors, his hair length goes back and forth during the course of the movie!

A real cool film that works on many levels. Had me laughing like a buffoon because the whole thing is done in a totally deadpan fashion. Great sense of humor and very vibrant fighting scenes. A real joy for people who might like Sanjuro, but this film stands on its own for sure.