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 S E A R C H    D V D B e a v e r

(aka "Zatôichi kenka-daiko" )

directed by Kenji Misumi
Japan 1968

 

In one of the most unusual films of the series, Zatoichi is hired to kill a man who owes a huge gambling debt to a yakuza boss. But the boss’ true motives are exposed when the victim’s sister, Osode, arrives with the money to pay back the debt, which she has acquired through prostitution. Realizing he has been tricked, Zatoichi vows to protect the young woman, and steps in to fight the gang boss for her honor. The result is a stunning display of violent swordplay that will appeal to any action fan.

Theatrical Release: December 28, 1968

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DVD Review: Home Vision Entertainment - Region 1 - NTSC

Big thanks to Donald Brown for the Review!

DVD Box Cover

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Distribution

Home Vision Entertainment

Region 1 - NTSC
Runtime 1:22:27
Video

2.38:1 Original Aspect Ratio

16X9 enhanced
Average Bitrate: 6.33 mb/s
NTSC 720x480 29.97 f/s

NOTE: The Vertical axis represents the bits transferred per second. The Horizontal is the time in minutes.
Bitrate

Audio Japanese - Dolby Digital 2.0
Subtitles English, none
Features Release Information:
Studio: Home Vision Entertainment

Aspect Ratio:
Widescreen anamorphic - 2.38:1

Edition Details:
• Two theatrical trailers

DVD Release Date: August 24, 2004
Keep case

Chapters 16

 

Comments The image here is almost identical to the one for Zatoichi 18, with lots of chroma and ringing. Observe the edges of the figures in the last two screenshots and the chroma in the kimono in the first screenshot. Black level is better than in the previous disc, and color is fine, as are the subtitles and audio.

It's strange that Volumes 18 and 19 of the series display so much digital artifacting. This isn't to say that fans of the films should stay away, though. Most of these faults are probably not evident on modest sized displays.

 - Donald Brown




DVD Menus
 

 

Screen Captures


Subtitle sample

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Enlarged to show ringing

 

 

 

DVD Box Cover

CLICK to order from:
Distribution

Home Vision Entertainment

Region 1 - NTSC




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