A blind masseur who happens to be a marvelously skilled swordsman is hired by a crooked official for a battle against a rival gang. Zatôichi monogatari, the first of more than two dozen movies about the character, is a character-driven drama in which the viewer comes to know not only the title character, who is a reluctant battler, but also the tubercular swordsman hired by the opposing side, whom he befriends, as well as a young woman, the sister of a gang member, who faces a difficult situation and hopes for escape. A deliberate pace allows time to explore the sides and their characters, with some minor confrontations, building to a major battle in the conclusion. Well worth a look.

  Recommended. Otto finds this one pleasing enough to relax.

Movie 331 for 2021.