LONE WOLF & CUB: Sword of Vengeance


Title: LONE WOLF & CUB: Sword of Vengeance
Rating: 4/5
Genre: Action/Drama
Language: Japanese (Eng. Subs)

Ogami Itto: You would've been happier if you'd chosen to join your mother in her world.

Based on a long running and extremely popular comic, Sword of Vengeance is the story of Ogami Itto, the Shogun’s second, and official executioner. Framed by the scheming Yagyu clan as a traitor, who also murder his beloved wife, Itto is forced to flee with his only son (Daigoro). Living in exile, Itto assumes the role of Ronin (masterless samurai), and becomes a sword for hire. He does this while all along pushing Daigoro around in a baby cart. This basic plot serves mainly as an introduction to its protagonists, and a jumping off point for the rest of the series. But the story stands on it’s own just the same.

The initial entry in the epic tale of the Lone Wolf, one is initially struck by the stunning cinematography. The film looks as if it was shot yesterday, even though it was released in 1972!! Rich color, superb framing of the varied set pieces, and beautiful depictions of the wonderful 17th century Japanese countryside combine to make this a pleasing visual feast. The sumptuous photography is only one of the many pluses that elevate this picture into classic terrain however.

While the dramatic elements of the film have much to recommend them (the acting is excellent, Tomisabura Wakayama’s stoic “Itto” being a charismatic and forceful presence), the main reason to watch these films is the frequent and dazzling swordplay. The choreography is sturdy and believable ( no flying from treetop to treetop in this one), the staging exciting and well executed. A warning is due for the weak of heart however. This picture (and indeed the rest of the series) is EXTREMELY bloody. Decapitation, disembowelment, and dismemberment are always part of the battle scenes (we ARE talking about sword fighting here), and the blood flows freely and often. Quentin Tarantino’s Kill Bill series owes much to this series, especially the infamous battle between The Bride and the Crazy 88.

The soundtrack is composed of traditional Japanese folk, played on traditional instruments, with the occasional fuzzed out power chord from electric guitar. It is sparingly used, indeed the entire sound for the picture being sparse and relegated to bare necessity. This is quite effective however, as the music highlights dramatic elements of the film, and the frequent silence serves to create an introspective tension. Itto is a man of few words, and speaks through his actions. The soundtrack mirrors this.

A stunning and truly exciting example of fine Japanese film making, Sword of Vengeance sits in good company with the very best of the samurai ilk. While not as lyrical or poetic as Kurosawa, it is a smart and moving drama, with copious martial combat to spice up the proceedings. Not the best of the series, but a stellar beginning that leaves the viewer gasping for more.

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