Where the Lone Wolf and Cub adventure has been delightfully frenetic up to this point, the fifth film is a decided change of pace. Much more deliberate and pensive, Baby Cart in the Land of Demons spends an unusual amount of time in one place, toying with a more nuanced (at times even confusing) story, while also fleshing out an important supporting character. Young Daigoro, stone-faced son of the wandering master at the center of this great storm, finally gets his close-up and proves to be every bit as determined, soft-spoken and unflappable as his father. His scenes are the ones that stuck with me afterward, resonating in a way that felt fresh while also remaining loyal to the saga's identity. Daddy, meanwhile, has his hands full with a difficult five-pronged onslaught and a pair of complex, intertwined kill contracts. His actions at the film's climax once more cast the character in dark grey fabric, a recurring theme for the series, and prove that (where duty is concerned) he hasn't changed all that much from the very first time we met. Less visceral and rubber-tendoned than any of the earlier entries, and perhaps overly ambitious with that tangled primary storyline, it's good stuff if a touch below the standard its brethren have thus far maintained. An outlier in many ways.

It's the best moving picture of the bunch!! It is the Empire Strikes Back of the Lone Wolf with Cub moving pictures. The action was superb and the bad guys were REALLY bad! Of course, this moving picture may be better appreciated upon having viewed the previous installments. Without trying to give anything away; some of the climactic scenes may be better understood with some of the back story filled in, but, I cannot seem to remember how much of "Meifumado" is exposition. So even just viewing this moving picture may give a good enough idea of the characters idioms, respectively. I think I cannot remember because I watched the 6th installment of the series the next day and now it's hard to remember the 5th. The 6th moving picture was the "A View To A Kill" of the series. Take that as you will. But one large part of this moving picture is Tomisaburo Wakayama's intensity as both a battle-hardened Samurai and also as a caring father, even though he does things most father's wouldn't do. Iffen you like good Samurai movies, be sure to check this one out. Haha Had to leave you with a Reading Rainbow plug...

I love the Lone Wolf and Cub series, they are the greatest series of action movies ever made! Tomisaburo Wakayama is my favourite samurai (well, technically ronin) of all time and Daigoro is the greatest "sidekick." I love every one of these movies but this has got to be my favourite for many reasons.The swordplay in this one is amazing and relentless. There is barely a minute without some sort of fight and none are repetitive. There always seems to be a new way to off someone with plenty of blood. The story is particularly in-depth in this one, with an interesting plot about deceit and betrayal within the Kuroda clan. Of particular note is the focus on the relationship between Itto and Daigoro, which in this entry is very unique and moving. The cinematography is as usual stunning, it really showcases Japan's beautiful countryside.Be sure not to miss this entry into this amazing series.5/5

This is part 5 of the legendary BABY CART series, which deals with ronin assassin Ogami Itto and his son Daigoro. They are on a mission to destroy the Yagyu clan for their betrayal, and to avenge the death of Itto's wife.More beautiful battles and swordplay - this one primarily centering around 5 warriors that Itto must battle in throughout the film to earn his bounty and the clues that he needs to take on his next "hit" - to kill a crazy clan leader before the clan falls apart.Full of beautiful cinematography, great action and swordplay, excellent acting, and the strange yet touching relation ship between Itto and Daigoro - the BABY CART series is not to be missed for those that enjoy martial arts films. I highly recommend the whole series. 8.5/10