Plot: What’s it about?
The town of Tondo has turned sour, thanks to the endless gangs that have overrun the streets and taken over the town. As Zatoichi (Shintaro Katsu) passes through, he discovers first hand how bad Tonda has become. He dislikes the brutal methods of the yakuza that runs the town, so he vows to help restore order. Zatoichi lands on the bad side of the yakuza when he uses a special technique to win some cash. The game was supposed to be impossible to win, so Zatoichi’s win upsets the yakuza and makes him a marked man. Although he is determined to take on the yakuza, Zatoichi is tired of his lifestyle and even his sword is at an end. A blacksmith reveals the origins of his sword, then warns him that the blade is soon to break. That means that when the blind swordsman goes into battle, he could be left without a weapon. His mind begins to question his choices in life, but soon enough, he is drawn back into battle. The actions of the local warlord have pushed Zatoichi too far and now, a duel is all but certain. A series of unusual fights follows, in which Zatoichi wields a bamboo stick instead of his sword, then his pipe is his sole weapon. The time soon comes for him to face the fierce warriors, but his sword is on the verge of destruction. Will Zatoichi be able to fend off his opponents, even with a worn sword?
This is the fifteenth volume in this series, a stage by which even the best premise would likely be at a loss for quality sequels. But Zatoichi never fell to that level, as this fifteenth installment is not only good, its one of the best of the series. The blind swordsman relies on his sharp blade throughout the entire series, but not much time is devoted to his weapon. We see the blade slice opponents and slam into other swords, but little had been told about its past. In Zatoichi’s Cane Sword, we watch as the blind swordsman often has to do battle, without his sword. So he wields whatever is within his grasp, with effective, but comedic results. In truth, this volume has more comic touches than any other in the franchise, which could divide audiences. The slapstick nature of this film is effective in my opinion, as the Zatoichi character has never been a totally serious one, so it is good to see that softer side here. But I can see how some would prefer a more serious, straight ahead style, though Zatoichi works well in either case. The premise allows us to learn about Zatoichi’s bond with his sword, as well as where the weapon came from. I really liked this volume and in the end, I hold up with the series’ very best installments. So for fans of Zatoichi or samurai cinema on the whole, this release is well recommended.
Video: How does it look?
Zatoichi’s Cane Sword is presented in 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen. This is another great visual treatment from Home Vision, who have shown immense care with these releases and fans should be delighted. As a result, we’re presented with a clean source print that has only minor defects, as well as a sharp, clean overall image to experience. The colors have a little flatness in a few scenes, but seem bright enough in most, so no complaints there. As far as contrast, I found detail to be high and black levels look good, leaving me to score this one rather well. I continue to be impressed by Home Vision’s work on this series and of course, I hope future installments are just as well handled, which I am sure will be the case.
Audio: How does it sound?
A solid, though unremarkable soundtrack is used here and on the whole, it handles the material in fine fashion. You’ll hear some hiss, pops, and other signs of wear are evident, but not as many as you might assume. In addition, these errors never become a distraction and as such, I doubt anyone will complain too much. The original Japanese language is preserved, with clean and sharp vocals that never become harsh or muddled. The limits of the material prevent any kind of real dynamic presence, but the music and sound effects come through well enough, all things considered. This disc also includes optional English subtitles.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc includes the film’s theatrical trailer.
