Ghost Of Tsushima: 10 Samurai Films You NEED To Watch First

9. The Tale Of Zatoichi

Yojimbo Ghost Of Tsushima
Dalei Studios

The titular protagonist's humble beginnings in a series that spans 26 films, The Tale Of Zatoichi starts the series off with everything the series is loved for. The film follows the story of a blind ronin by the name Zatoichi as he's hired by a yakuza gang leader Sukegoro.

He navigates through the seedy crime world in order to make a living. While his work consists of working among amoral people, he maintains his high morality wherever he goes, avoiding conflict when able to.

Throughout the film's great action set pieces and moments, what makes it so enjoyable to watch is Zatoichi's personality. He's lighthearted and somehow is able to face the cruelty of the world with a smile while swindling at the same time. He's an interesting character aware of the immorality of his line of work yet tied to it as the only means he knows of existing within his environment.

It's a samurai film like no other and with its tongue-in-cheek quality, it's hard to not love.

Contributor
Contributor

Filmmaker and film enthusiast who dabbles in photography and music.