A strangely fantastic character study of a blind swordsman that excels in its oddities. From infectious tap-dancing to gorey action to thoroughly lovable characters to male geishas, this film has something for the whole family. My family at least. Its humour was always welcomed and most engaging. Non-technical aspects aside, Zatoichi is competently shot and edited. But importantly, with Kitano playing the affable protagonist, I find it completely impossible to dislike him or his direction.