Samurai Spy

35mm print imported from Japan (courtesy of the Japan Foundation)

“In early 17th century Japan, tensions continue to rise between the rival Tokugawa Shogunate and the Toyotomi clan. Sarutobi Sasuke (Koji Takahashi), a samurai spy serving the Sanada clan, finds himself entangled in a web of conspiracies. Falsely accused of murder and on the run, Sasuke searches for the truth, uncertain of who he can trust, and who is pulling the strings.

Featuring stealthy kills, ninja actions, and the tension of a spy thriller, Shinoda manages to break the conventions of samurai film tropes. Alongside DP Masao Kosugi, Shinoda makes full use of wide shots creating a visually dynamic film that culminates in the climactic battle shrouded in fog. This was the last film he made for Shochiku.” - Akinaru Rokkaku