Closely adapted from the classic manga series, Lone Wolf And Cub: Sword of Vengeance is the first of a film series that ran for six installments between 1972 and 1974. It stars Tomisaburo Wakayama as Ogami Itto, a disgraced former executioner to the shogun. He is forced to travel the Japanese countryside with his young son in a heavily-armed baby carriage. Together, the two take on dirty jobs in the hopes of one day exacting vengeance against the wicked clan who framed Itto for the crimes that caused his fall from grace.

Ryan is joined by Rachel for this deconstruction of this foundational chambara film. Discussion points include the film's episodic narrative structure, the movie's juxtaposition of quiet moments with blood-gushing violence, the repressed soulfulness hiding behind Itto's stoicism, and Lone Wolf And Cub's influence upon products like Usagi Yojimbo, Sin City, Road To Perdition, and The Mandalorian.

Ryan and Rachel also have a discussion about this movie's frank (and arguably cavalier) approach to its depictions of sexual assault. So, if that isn't something you feel comfortable listening to, maybe skip this episode.

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