Zatoichi and the Fugitives (1968)

Zatoichi and the fugitives is definitely one the few that stands out from the rest of the series much like how 'Zatoichi and the chess expert' and 'Zatoichi the outlaw' did (that is if you watched the films in the order it was released).'Zatoichi and the Fugitives' features some of the most ruthless villains to have appeared in any of the zatoichi films preceding this title. These villains really gave 'Zato no Ichi' (played by Shintaro Katsu) a tough time. Its the first time I actually worried for his safety which is a rarity since he is mostly portrayed as a practically invincible swordsmen as seen in 'Adventures of Zatoich' where he slayed an entire guard post with scores of skilled swordsmen. However this time Zatoichi has many close calls which gives a change of pace from the mass-slaying zatoichi we are so used to, suspense is no stranger to this film.Takashi Shimura of 'Seven Samurai' and 'Red Beard' fame that played Dr Junan really left me impressed. The dynamic between the blind gangster/swordsmen/anma and the kind-hearted doctor made for a very entertaining watch. Takashi Shimura did not disappoint.The use of Manzai comedy and the customary gambling scene where Zatoichi always manages to split the loaded dice in half is left out of this film. Instead one can expect a dark and suspenseful tale with a very solid story that doesn't feel too reminiscent of the previous 17 films.If you have made it to the 18th installment of the long-time running zatoichi series than that means your already hooked to this very likable icon. Zatoichi and the fugitives is definitely one of my favorite Zatoichi films.

As others have suggested, I also get the impression that the studio was trying a little extra to keep the Zatoichi enterprise chugging along and making money. The film mostly succeeds.It's great to see Takashi Shimura in a supporting role as Dr. Junan. Even though he is aged in this appearance and his hair is white, who can forget the thick lips and the fine acting in previous films like Seven Samurai, Drunken Angel and Ikiru? There is also more blood in this entry, a sign of things to come.Zatoichi takes on a group of vicious thugs. Zatoichi is befriended by Dr. Junan. In the end, taking on the thugs destroys his friendship with the doctor. Well, you've seen the same story unfold numerous times before, but it's still an enjoyable ride.

Don't be lulled asleep by the (typical) orderly pacing of this Zatoichi entry: this is the bloodiest entry in the series so far.Add in an outstanding score from the unsung Hajime Kabarugi, and you have a winner!

Zatoichi takes on a corrupt law officer and a group desperate fugitives. There is humor, and plenty of action. See Ichi take on an assassin with a gun!There isn't much to make this one stand out from the other later Zatoichi films, but it does have Takashi Shimura in a supporting role.