Zatichi to Yjinb (1970) - Zatoichi Meets Yojimbo

Just when you think you know what to expect, along comes something to surprise you.

OK, so we still have the downtrodden peasants and the gangs who seem out to destroy each other in a power struggle, even a little gambling so whats different?

Zatoichi usually comes across as a bit of a bumbling fool which of coarse is the impression he wants to give (part of his deception), in this film he seems genuinely exhausted and in need of a good rest, even in his fighting its as though he has a complete lack of energy and vitality.

Yojimbo, played with aplomb by Toshiro Mifune plays cat and mouse games and trades insults with Zatoichi through-out the film but his character is also a deception. Yojimbo plays an important central role in the film and is not just there to provide a nemesis to Zatoichi, obviously a fair amount of thought was given to the storyline. 

A beautiful village that holds fond memories for Zatoichi draws him back when he needs a rest but in the 2/3 years since he last visited things have changed for the worse, thus begin the twists and turns, crosses and double crosses that lead up to a violent finale over a large amount of stolen gold.

Im not sure why but I came away thinking it would make a good spaghetti western, just something about the setting and the way the story unfolded, probably also because the town had a coffin maker (every spaghetti western needs a coffin maker). 

An enjoyable and slightly different Zatoichi film, certainly one of the better ones.

Guest star Toshiro Mifune (obviously) as Yojimbo Bodyguard

Cheers Trev.