I had low expectations for this film but have to say it was a pleasant surprise. The story had humor, visually it was very interesting, and at times beautiful. The lead actor is very good and I'd like to see more of his work.

The Zatoichi series take a huge jump upward with this entry. Everything also falls into line -- you can tell people in front of and behind the camera had really hit their stride.This film offers more action that the previous entries, as well as stunning cinematography and gorgeous production values. Another bonus -- the appearance of Katsu Shintaro's real-life older brother, Wakayama Tomisaburo. It's as if the box office performance of the previous films justified bringing out the big guns this time.If you're new to Zatoichi and wondering with which film to take the plunge, then "Chest of Gold" is definitely worth your time.

This film sure started off well. Instead of the usual credits, these were the coolest ones yet. Against a black background, Zatôichi smokes a cigarette as periodically evil men attack him and he dispatches them like flies--and continues smoking like he's the toughest guy in town!When the film itself begins, Zatôichi comes upon a humble village where they are having a celebration. It seems that after three years of drought, the villagers had a good harvest and can finally pay off the tax bill. However, when the money is stolen, the villagers stupidly believe the stranger in town (Zatôichi) did it. Considering that he's blind and doesn't leave after the theft, it sure seems ridiculous to blame him. Further, after the townsfolk beat him up, it's also very surprising that our hero would agree to help them find their stolen funds.Zatôichi assumes boss Chuji is behind the theft and makes his way towards his village. On the way, he meets a beautiful but mysterious lady. He doesn't seem to think much of this meeting, but oddly you later see this lady begging the local bosses to have Zatôichi killed. But why?! When Zatôichi finally meets up with Chuji, his assumption is proved wrong, though it IS true that some of his men were involved in the theft. Zatôichi swears to continue following the trail to the money AND also now agrees to transport a little boy for Chuji to another town. Oh, that Ichi--always helping others and not thinking one bit about himself! A bit later, most of Chuji's men are killed and he barely escapes. It seems that Monji (another boss) is NOT Chuji's friend after all and he's in league with Jushiro. At this point, if you are feeling a bit confused, don't worry. Though you may not be able to determine who exactly is who, just rest assured that Zatôichi will be administering a well-earned butt kicking!! Overall, this is a very good addition to the series. While it lacks some of the heart and back story of the best films in the series, the plot was engaging and different. Well worth seeing.

The Zatoichi series really took off with this entry. Shintaro Katsu is, of course, outstanding in his role as the blind swordsman/masseur. What sets this one aside from the earlier entries in the series, though, is the kinetic camerawork of Kazuo Miyagawa. Utilising every inch of his Panavision frame, Miyagawa set new standards for the samurai genre, choreographing outstanding fight sequences and adding the element of gore to the recipe. For those who think widescreen mayhem began with The Wild Bunch, this is essential viewing!