Backdrop preview The Fugitive Samurai backdrop
The Fugitive Samurai

The Fugitive Samurai (1984)

Jan 03, 1984 1h 32m Action Adventure

Itto Ogami- High Executioner to the Shogun- has been betrayed by his political enemies and sentenced to a dishonorable death. Seeking to restore the honor of his name, Ogami- The Wolf- must flee the Shogun's grasp and live long enough to prove his innocence. Taking only his sword and his son, Ogami embarks on a bloody journey of righteousness and revenge as he seeks to destroy those who would disgrace his family's name. Hunted mercilessly by the Shogun's troops, by his enemies, and by those who seek the reward put on his head, Ogami must fight his way through feudal Japan, challenging and defeating all who stand in the way of his quest for honor. Can Ogami- a true Samurai Warrior- endure the ceaseless violence which surrounds him?

Directed by Minoru Matsushima

Cast

View All

Crew

Director
  • Minoru Matsushima
  • Akinori Matsuo
  • Hitoshi Ōzu
Writer
  • Takeo Kunihiro
  • Kazuo Koike
Producer
  • Shigeru Umetani

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to review this movie!
Sign in to leave a review.

Thematic Analysis

This high-octane Action/Adventure film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, The Fugitive Samurai distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.

Director Minoru Matsushima 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 pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1984, 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 The Fugitive Samurai took approximately 14 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 92 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 151 minutes long.
  • The musical score contains over 43 unique compositions.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 6 months to complete.
  • The film contains approximately 1365 individual shots.

Historical Context

  • In 1984, when this film was released:
  • The Cold War was entering its final phase.
  • Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

While The Fugitive Samurai shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Second Life, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Fugitive Samurai subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Wrong Turn at Tahoe and Walking Tall explore similar territory, The Fugitive Samurai stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

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: January 3, 1984
  • Runtime: 1h 32m

Similar Movies