[psycho d]

Goyokin (1969). Labelled as an antisamurai flick, i feel this label to be unfair. To be sure it does not portray the samurai as perfectly noble, but instead portrays them as humans caught in the impossible sitaution of holding true to their morals whilst remaining loyal to the clan, a sitaution made impossible by their corrupt government and its insuperable taxing regimen. The inimitable Tutsuya gives an incredible lead performance, playing the tortured samurai destined to make things right. The rest of the acting falls right in place, with powerful and believable performances by all. The swordplay is wonderful if not realistically brutal. The cinematography is also wonderful, being the first japanese flick to be filmed in Panavision. The opening scene is outstanding in its portrayal that something dark is to be expected. The stark realities of nature, with wickedly muddied streets and frozen landscapes where much of the fighting takes place, is an experience in itself. That the fighters must find ways to keep their hands warm such that they can at least close thier fingers on their sword's handle was a wonderful touch. The story itself was powerful and well crafted. This classic was absolutely incredible in all regards. Why this one gets so little attention is a mystery. Ashe.
derek