Review of Shogun Assassin (1980) by Jy S — 31 Jan 2008
Classic samurai film. It is easy to see the influences that this film has on many other films being released years and years later.Unlike many other classic kung fu style movies, this film puts more emphasis on the story rather than the martial arts action.
That's not to say that this film lacks action. In fact, there is just as much action in here as in many other martial arts films. The Japanese style is just a little different from the Chinese. In this film you get the quick hack and slash battles rather than the long drawn out kung fu fights.
While this isn't a huge disappointment, the quick kills just aren't as visually pleasing as a well choreographed kung fu sequence. Of course, people have different tastes, so this style of action may be all you desire.
The actual plot is pretty simple, but for a movie like this it seems really deep. The narration by the kid is great and the cinematography is quite good. There are only a few parts that are a little boring.
You may have heard about the banning of this movie. When you watch this, you will known why. This film is not afraid to hold back on anything. You have violence that is still comparable with movies released decades later.
Blood shoots out all over the place and body parts are sliced and diced. Heck, this film even has nudity.The acting isn't anything special. All I have to say is that it is similar to most other kung fu classics.
As far as the characters go, Kayo Matsuo plays a beautiful female ninja and the three storms, I mean masters of death, are entertaining to see.If there is a samurai film to see in your lifetime, this should be one to consider.
Definitely an influential film.
This review of Shogun Assassin (1980) was written by Jy S on 31 Jan 2008.
Shogun Assassin has generally received very positive reviews.
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