I’m planning my to-watch list for my summer break and was wondering if anyone had any recommendations for good Japanese samurai/ninja films?
I’ve already seen the Kurosawa ones and am planning to watch this 1950s trilogy called “Samurai - Miyamoto Musashi” on the famous swordsman. I’ve also seen “Gohatto” as well as the new “Zatoichi” for more recent movies. I don’t know what is classic/great in the chambara genre though. Are there any classic ninja films around?
There’s a more recent movie called Twilight Samurai. It’s a really good movie about a poor samurai who just wants to do what’s best for his starving family. It stars Hiroyuki Sanada (Ujio from the Last Samurai).
Sonny Chiba’s had a few ninja roles but most I’ve seen are pretty campy. Shogun’s Ninja is probably the best of the ones that I’ve seen though if you want to try that.
It’s cool to see someone who has interest in Japanese movies like I do. My brother and I collect martial arts films and we’ve got most of the Chinese stuff covered so lately we’ve been watching a lot of Japanese films.
Do we also share an interest in Midle Earth lore, Eldarion?
6-String Samurai. A weird comedy.
I recently watched Twilight Samurai. I liked it. Be warned, though, it’s not really an action movie. More of a drama. Definitely a good movie.
Kung Fu Hustle was a great martial arts comedy with a lot of action. Way over the top.
Chushingura- The 47 Ronin is the all-time classic samurai movie from the '70’s, I believe. Huge plot, great acting and filming. Outstanding fight scenes.
Tony