Feudal Intrigue Unleashed in Film Trilogy

Read Time:4 Minute, 27 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Shinobi [Limited Edition] (Band of Assassins, Revenge, Resurrection)
Ninja, a Band of Assassins (Shinobi no mono) –
Shinobi No Mono 2: Vengeance (Zoku shinobi no mono) –
Shinobi No Mono 3: Resurrection (Shin shinobi no mono) –

Genre: Action, Drama
Year Released: 1962, 2024 Radiance Films Blu-ray
Runtime: 4h 54m
Director(s): Satsuo Yamamoto, Kazuo Mori
Writer(s): Tomoyoshi Murayama, Hajime Takaiwa
Cast: Raizo Ichikawa, Tomisaburo Wakayama, Shiho Fujimura, Yûnosuke Itô, Katsuhiko Kobayashi, Yôko Uraji, Reiko Fujiwara, Chitose Maki, Kyôko Kishida, Takeshi Katô, Kô Nishimura, Yutaka Nakamura, Kuniichi Takami, Toshio Chiba, Jun Fujikawa, Gen Kimura, Akiko Inoue
Where To Watch: available May 28, 2024; pre-order here www.radiancefilms.co.uk, www.mvdshop.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Step back in time with the Radiance Films collection of the Shinobi series, which encapsulates the turbulent 16th century in Japan through the eyes of its shadow warriors. This box set, featuring BAND OF ASSASSINS, REVENGE, and RESSURECTION, is a time capsule that delves into the intricate lives of samurais and ninjas. Each film highlights narratives that explore tales of honor, betrayal, and the complex socio-political landscape of the era.

Kicking off the trilogy, BAND OF ASSASSINS breaks away from the typical flamboyant portrayal of ninjas to offer a storyline rooted in historical authenticity. Under the astute direction of Satsuo Yamamoto and the formidable presence of Raizo Ichikawa as Goemon Ichikawa, the film dives into the strategic and lethal world of ninja warfare. Enhanced by the expertise of ninjitsu grandmaster Takamatsu Toshiitsugu and fight choreographer Masaaki Hatsumi, this film sets the stage with well-choreographed action and a complex plot of feudal intrigue, bolstered by stellar performances from Tomisaburo Wakayama and Ayako Wakao.

In REVENGE, the stakes are elevated as Goemon, haunted by the brutal murder of his family by the merciless Nobunaga Oda, portrayed by Wakayama, embarks on a dark path of retribution. This second film in the series heightens the intensity of this saga, blending a personal vendetta with the broader historical upheavals of the period. Director Yamamoto navigates the dual arcs of action and character development, showcasing a warrior’s resilience and tactical cunning in the face of overwhelming grief.

The trilogy concludes with RESSURECTION, where director Kazuo Mori takes the reins to chart Goemon’s survival course against Toyotomi Hideyoshi, depicted by Eijiro Tono. While leaning more into the political arena, this film retains its allure, driven by Ayako Wakao’s powerful portrayal. This heightens the story’s layered character dynamics and the strategic stories within the shadowy depths of political power.

The Shinobi boxset offers a reflective look at the societal transformations of 1960s Japan. Each installment is a window into the period, with varying narratives combining unique insights into a society grappling with the clash of old traditions and emerging challenges. The trilogy is a profound experience that balances the scales between legendary tales and historical truths.

This series does more than narrate the exploits of fabled warriors; it invites viewers to explore the dynamics of Japan’s rich history, making it a must-watch for cinema buffs and history enthusiasts. With its commitment to authenticity and engaging storytelling, the Shinobi series firmly establishes itself as a noteworthy contribution to the art of film.

Bonus Materials
Each film’s high-definition digital transfer is presented on two discs and made available on Blu-ray (1080p) for the first time outside Japan.
Uncompressed mono PCM audio
Interview with Shozo Ichiyama, artistic director of the Tokyo International Film Festival, about director Satsuo Yamamoto
Visual essay on the ninja in Japanese cinema by film scholar Mance Thompson Interview with film critic Toshiaki Sato on star Raizo Ichikawa
Trailers
New and improved optional English subtitles
Six postcards of promotional material from the films
Reversible sleeves featuring artwork based on original promotional materials
Limited edition booklet featuring new writing by Jonathan Clements on the Shinobi no mono series and Diane Wei Lewis on writer Tomoyoshi Murayama
Limited Edition of 3000 copies, presented in a rigid box with full-height Scanavo cases and removable OBI strip, leaving packaging free of certificates and markings

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[photo courtesy of RADIANCE FILMS, MVD ENTERTAINMENT]

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