jolgo13

This is the second film in the 7 film series based on the Japanese manga series. Even though I'd say the manga series tops it these films hold their own against lots of other films, even today. This film gain takes several aspects of the mnga, plot and other little things thrown in and mixes it up. The result turns out great. The gore in this one tops 'Sword of Vengance' and that is no small task but it is not realistic and made so on purpose. The final duel between Ogami and the Masters of Death is a great one. The head splitting scene sticks out the most I'd say. Or the `Wailing of the Wintery Wind' which was actually called `Flute of the Falling tiger' in the manga. That (for those who haven't seen it) is when Ogami slices a diagonal cut on the 3rd ones neck causing blood to come out and make a whistling sound. In the manga it sprays a bit and he falls dead. However in the film it sprays then he falls and it gushes out. I didn't get why.

Another key fight is with the Kurokawa in the forest with his double spear. Also when Diagoro is rolled in the cart and cuts the legs of two of the ninja.that's a good bit.

All in all the films can't be compared to the comics. They lack the emotional depth and some other things. But they stand on their own, as great pieces of art.

The first entry in a series of master pieces. Based very strongly upon the manga series `Lone Wolf and Cub' is most likely the best film series derived from comics. And truly great films as well. One cannot base one story on a single comic. There are so many elements in each. There is a basic story, but often times there are mixed with others. Little things are thrown in as well. Normally it would make any less a film seem crammed or just forced in. But it is pulled off brilliantly.

This film, the first entry is largely a set up for the sequels but still brilliant, from its beautiful camera shots to the extremely gory ascetic fights. It tells the story of how the main character Ogami Itto was exiled from his royal position as the Shoguns decapitator. It flashes from past to present until the entire past story is told. The ending fight is a great climax.

The sword work although at times seems fake is brilliantly choreographed. The gore in the film is not overly done, but rather thrown in to give it an artistic feel, as if you're watching a moving painting. Often times one may think every scene could very well be a panting.

Some aspects of the plot may seem odd to most western audiences. The scene where Ogami gives his son a choice between a ball and a sword. Or rather life or death, may strike many people as cold. However one must understand bushido and know that the way of the samurai is life in death. Ask yourself what would be worse taking your son on a trip as you kill men beyond number, or giving somewhat of a choice.

This film is truly beautiful, and hold up today as not just one of the greatest samurai films ever made, but films period.