Zatoichi Meets the One-Armed Swordsman (1971)

The blind swordsman's 22nd film was a crossover event that added the Chinese hero/anti-hero Fang Kang to the cast. You’d expect that to result in a Chanbara/Wuxia hybrid, but in my version the ratio is about 90:10 in favour of the Japanese technical style. The Chinese cut reportedly had more Fang Kang screen time, but I can’t find it for sale anywhere.
It’s a violent film with a cultural message that’s clear to read and an ending that leaves you with plenty to think about.

3 language barriers out of 5

Legends of the Poisonous Seductress: Vol Three: Okatsu the Fugitive (1969)

The third and final Poisonous Seductress film once again stars Junko Miyazono. She's also again called Okatsu, but with a different upbringing than the one in Quick-draw (1969). It's as if there's some kind of weird unspoken alternative reality thing going on. However, there's nothing to support such a ridiculous theory in any of the films... so, er, I'll get my coat.
Vol Three's Okatsu is at a transitional period of her life – more than even she knows. It gives rise to ample opportunities for swordplay that's brutal and merciless. Junko is slightly better with the weapon the third time out, but still not as good as a secondary character that, like Wakayama did previously, raises the bar. They're some of the most impressive moments in a film that just doesn't work as well as it should in other areas.

3 work ethics out of 5

Blind Woman's Curse (1970)

aka The Tattooed Swordswoman / Black Cat's Revenge /

The Haunted Life of a Dragon-Tattooed Lass

A strange tale of bloody vengeance from Teruo Ishii that takes what it wants from many different genres and mixes them all together. The result is primarily a female yakuza/chanbara story, but has elements of exploitation and even Japanese horror woven throughout. Ishii’s enthusiasm for his subject and the addition of the alluring Meiko Kaji ensure that it transcends its B Movie limitations on a number of occasions.
It also stars Hoki Tokuda in a crucial role. Unfortunately, Hoki only ever made three films before giving up acting, of which this was the last.

3 tears of the dragon out of 5

Lady Snowblood: Love Song of Vengeance (1974)

The first Lady Snowblood film was a stylish tale of vengeance and family honour. The sequel isn't. It places Yuki in the middle of a political situation that doesn't give her room to breathe.
It's bleak from beginning to end. The dreary feeling is further enhanced by poor lighting and camerawork that's mostly uninspired.

2 blood puddles out of 5