Zatoichi: The Fugitive (1963)

So far, this is the least impressive of the four Zatoichis I've seen, due mainly to a diffusive plot that doesn't hold the attention as tightly as the others; however, it's also got the most stunning climax of the four. The experience of seeing Zatoichi tear through an entire yakuza clan is exciting and deeply satisfying, and as always there's one hell of an emotional jolt contained within the swordplay. So it's still aces with me.

Grade: B+