New Tale of Zatoichi (1963)

Weary of his violent past, the blind masseur and master swordsman, Zatoichi, embarks on a journey back to his roots in pursuit of tranquility. His path, however, is shadowed by the vengeful brother of the slain Boss Kanbei, a specter from his past whose thirst for revenge disrupts the peace Zatoichi seeks. On his home soil, he reconnects with Banno, his old mentor, a man driven by ambition and prestige. Banno has orchestrated a strategic match for his younger sister, Yayoi, to marry into a noble samurai family, elevating their status. Yet, the heart treads its own path and Zatoichi and Yayoi find themselves ensnared in a clandestine love, a love that shatters when Zatoichi's proposal is met with Banno's scorn. Further complicating the intricate tapestry of Zatoichi's life is Banno's sinister plot to abduct the son of a rich man. Under the guise of aiding the Mito Goblins, a notorious gang of thieves in hiding, Banno aims to pocket the hefty ransom. Torn between his longing for a life of love and his inherent destiny steeped in violence, Zatoichi finds himself caught in a web of betrayal, ambition, and unrequited love. Can he navigate this labyrinth of chaos and find the peace he so desperately seeks? Or is he doomed to live a life dictated by his sword?

New Tale of Zatoichi is an action movie featuring Mikiko Tsubouchi and directed by Tokuzō Tanaka.

New Tale of Zatoichi is currently streaming on Criterion Channel.

It is also possible to buy New Tale of Zatoichi on Amazon Video and Apple TV.