Today’s Trillion Dollar Movie is The Tale of Zatoichi, the 1962 film that introduced Japan’s most beloved action hero, the blind gambler and master swordsman Zatoichi. Created by novelist Kan Shimozawa, Zatoichi has graced the screen nearly as long as James Bond. All told, the character appeared in more than 25 movies, as well as a long-running television series.

The Tale of Zatoichi stars actor Shintaro Katsu in the title role. He has not been the only Zatoichi or “Ichi,” but he is closely identified with the character. Much like Sean Connery, Katsu set the standard against which all future Zatoichi performers would be measured.

Zatoichi usually travels incognito, passing himself off as a harmless and lowly country bumpkin. He performs massage and acupuncture, but makes most of his money playing dice. His sense of hearing is so acute he can tell when the dice are loaded, or whether an even or odd number has been rolled. Often, these games of chance end in swordplay, with Zatoichi going up against yakuza gangsters or oppressive, rich villains who have preyed upon the weak and the poor.

In reviewing The Tale of Zatoichi, Rob Larsen wrote, “Everything that makes Ichi special is present and accounted for here: his innate sense of right and wrong, his amazing way with women, his bumbling charm, his quick wit, and, of course, plenty of work with his deadly cane sword.” Enjoy and do return again next Friday for another Trillion $ Movie.