A solid samurai film, not as great as the Seven Samurai, but a very good film. Some patience and re-viewing may be needed if you're new to this style and era of Japanese filmmaking, but I think the effort will be rewarded. (I believe Criterion was known as Janus when I first got wind of these films.)
Great movie for samurai fans and another excellent Criterion transfer!
Really enjoyed the movie, the action is furious and the character are engaging. It's surprisingly cynical for a movie of it's time, and the plot moves along nicely. It feels almost like a Kurosawa samurai film with similar themes about honor and loyalty. The Criterion transfer is gorgeous, the B&W photography looks beautiful and sound is excellent too. Highly recommended!