This entry in the series is highly recommended. I often recommend this as the first film in the series that friends and family view. Katsu Shintaro is fantastic in this film. At one point in the film, Zatoichi tells someone that he has never been happier, and the audience already knows that because of Katsu's fine acting. This is not the only film where Katsu shares the camera lens with a child. Katsu obviously loves children and their presence lightens the mood of these films.
The emphasis in this film is drama. There is less sword fighting, so if your interest in the series is purely for the fighting sequences, move on to another entry. For all others who enjoy a mixture of drama and action, this is a fantastic film that is sure to bring some moisture to your eyes.
Just as an aside, I don't know how the international English title became Fight, Zatoichi, Fight. The Japanese Kanji literally mean Zatoichi Blood Smile Travel, giving the feeling of both violence and happiness.
The emphasis in this film is drama. There is less sword fighting, so if your interest in the series is purely for the fighting sequences, move on to another entry. For all others who enjoy a mixture of drama and action, this is a fantastic film that is sure to bring some moisture to your eyes.
Just as an aside, I don't know how the international English title became Fight, Zatoichi, Fight. The Japanese Kanji literally mean Zatoichi Blood Smile Travel, giving the feeling of both violence and happiness.