Samurai III: Duel at Ganryu Island

A stately, heartfelt conclusion that balances quiet rural contemplation with the weight of an inevitable, beautifully staged duel.

Directed by

Hiroshi Inagaki

Genres

Action, Adventure, Drama

Starring

Toshirō Mifune, Koji Tsuruta, Kaoru Yachigusa

Overview

A humble and simple Takezo abandons his life as a knight errant. He's sought as a teacher and vassal by Shogun, Japan's most powerful clan leader. He's also challenged to fight by the supremely confident and skillful Sasaki Kojiro. Takezo agrees to fight Kojiro in a year's time but rejects Shogun's patronage, choosing instead to live on the edge of a village, raising vegetables. He's followed there by Otsu and later by Akemi, both in love with him. The year ends as Takezo assists the villagers against a band of brigands. He seeks Otsu's forgiveness and accepts her love, then sets off across the water to Ganryu Island for his final contest.

How it feels

Earnest, melancholic, romantic and tense. Measured and needs your attention.

About

Identity, love, redemption, violence

Content

Mild violence. No gore, sexual content or swearing.

Note

Written by AI, so it can be wrong. Full breakdown

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Watch the trailer on YouTube (opens in a new tab)