Kedamono no ken (1965)

This is a 60's rebel film from Japan translated Sword of the Beast. With the United States going through its own revolution, Japan was still in the midst of reconstruction and deciding what should be kept and what part of culture would be better left behind. The clan structure is under attack in this film as well as a very traditional understanding of honour.

Gennosuke is on the run after having murdered a clan leader. A small group chases him into the mountains seeking revenge. He finds several downtrodden people on his journey and discovers an alternative to being lorded over and honour in doing so. 

The black and white film is shot in a very alluring way as it blends full scope shots with expressive face shots (comparable to todays japanime I suppose). The acting is convincing too.

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