About Lone Wolf and Cub: Sword of Vengeance

Lone Wolf and Cub: Sword of Vengeance is a 1972 Japanese samurai film directed by Kenji Misumi. The film tells the story of Ogami Itto, the Shogunate's executioner, who, after being falsely accused of disloyalty, takes his young son and becomes an assassin-for-hire, while seeking revenge against those who conspired against him.

Making / Production

Kenji Misumi directed this film, which is the first in a series based on the popular manga series "Lone Wolf and Cub" by writer Kazuo Koike and artist Goseki Kojima. The production design splendidly re-created the historical periods, maintaining a visually stunning presentation amidst its graphic and intense violent sequences.

Actors

• Tomisaburo Wakayama: Played the lead role of Ogami Itto. Despite his stern and intimidating appearance, he managed to evoke sympathy for his character's tragic circumstance.
• Akihiro Tomikawa: Portrayed Ogami Daigoro, Itto's young son. His innocent demeanor contrasted sharply with the film's dark themes, providing a touch of poignancy.
• Fumio Watanabe: Played the antagonist role of Yagyu Retsudo, a character permeated with abhorrence.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film is known in Japan as Kozure Okami: Kowokashi udekashi tsukamatsuru.
• It's not only the first in the movie series, but there's also a TV series adaptation.
• The film and its sequels had an impact on global cinema and inspired filmmakers such as Quentin Tarantino.

Quotes

• "In this world, there is only the path of the assassin." - Ogami Itto
• "When the path of revenge is entered upon, with each step shall there be 100 battles." - Yagyu Retsudo

Music, Soundtrack

• The music for this film was composed by Hideaki Sakurai. The ambient score complements not only the intense battle sequences but also the contemplative moments between father and son.