“In 1962 Shintaro Katsu, a handsome, young Japanese matinee idol, shaved his head, closed his eyes, found some scruffy clothes, picked up a sword, and became the star of Japan's most popular action series ever. Zatoichi, The Blind Swordsman, is a sightless samurai with a radar-like sense of hearing. Sometimes a gambler, sometimes a masseur, at times wanted by a misinformed or corrupt law, Zatoichi is an easily identifiable lower-class hero. Always trying to mend wrongs, he frequently lands in trouble for his generosity. Although he is peace-loving, he continually finds himself stalked by straying samurai. Comical tricks with dice and his cane sword enhance his actions.
“Katsu starred in all twenty-five Zatoichi episodes made for theatrical release, then continued his popular role on a Japanese T.V. series for several more years. The Life and Opinion of Zatoichi is the very first episode, the one which started it all. It features corrupt gang bosses, tricks, and flashing swordsmanship, which later became keys to the entire series. Although there is more melodrama in this episode than throughout most of the series, it ends with a super swordfight. (Something for everyone.) Surprisingly, Zatoichi reveals very little about his past here, or in any other episode. But his character is formally introduced. It will be redefined many times in the future as nuances are added.” Bill Thompson