Cast
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Shintarō Katsu
as Zatoichi
Mikiko Tsubouchi
as Yayoi
Seizaburō Kawazu
as Banno
Fujio Suga
as Yasuhiko
Mieko Kondō
as Inn keeper's wife
Tatsuo Endō
as Inn keeper
Gen Kimura
as Yakuza member with mark on his face
Chitose Maki
as Tame's wife
Kanae Kobayashi
as Old lady going deaf
Yutaka Nakamura
as Yasuhiko's brother
Shōsaku Sugiyama
as Tengu Ronin that gets a massage
Saburo Date
as Anzo
Ichirō Takakura
as Kingo Kanda
Shōzō Nanbu
as Jinpachiro Kanda
Toyoko Takechi
as Oshige
Crew
Director
- Tokuzō Tanaka
Producer
- Ikuo Kubodera
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, New Tale of Zatoichi examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Tokuzō Tanaka brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1963, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of New Tale of Zatoichi took approximately 24 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 91 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 117 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 73 unique compositions.
- The screenplay went through 8 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1963, when this film was released:
- Counterculture movements were challenging traditional values.
- The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While New Tale of Zatoichi shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Kill Bill: Vol. 1, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, New Tale of Zatoichi subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Beverly Hills Cop II and Léon: The Professional explore similar territory, New Tale of Zatoichi stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: March 15, 1963
- Runtime: 1h 31m
Where to Watch
