ZEN & SWORD: The Miyamoto Musashi Saga at Toei (Masters of Cinema)

Explore the definitive five-part samurai saga from Toei, directed by Tomu Uchida between 1961 and 1965, chronicling the life of the near-mythic Japanese figure, Miyamoto Musashi. Adapted from the works of Eiji Yoshikawa, this collection features titans of Japanese cinema, Kinnosuke Nakamura and Ken Takakura, in a series that stands alongside the Zatoichi films as a great samurai achievement of the 1960s.

The collection traces Musashi's journey, beginning with Miyamoto Musashi, which charts his origins following the Battle of Sekigahara. Subsequent films follow his development, including Miyamoto Musashi II: Showdown at Hannyazaka Heights, Miyamoto Musashi III: Birth of the Two Sword Style where he first encounters his rival Kojiro Sasaki (Ken Takakura), and culminates in the intense duels of Miyamoto Musashi IV: Duel at Ichijo-ji Temple and Miyamoto Musashi V: Duel at Ganryu Island.

• Five-part epic saga focusing on the legendary swordsman Miyamoto Musashi.
• Directed by Tomu Uchida and starring Kinnosuke Nakamura and Ken Takakura.
• Includes 1080p HD presentations on Blu-ray from new 4K restorations by Toei.
• Optional English subtitles, newly revised for this release.
• New audio commentary on Miyamoto Musashi with Japanese cinema expert Jonathan Wroot.
• New audio commentary on Miyamoto Musashi II: Showdown at Hannyazaka Heights with critic and Japanese cinema specialist Jasper Sharp.
• Includes the new video essay "Live by the Sword" by Jonathan Clements.

• Format: Blu-ray
• Edition: Standard Edition
• Language: Japanese
• Total Run Time: 9 hours and 26 minutes
• Actors: Ken TAKAKURA, Kinnosuke NAKAMURA, Wakaba IRIE
• Director: Tom UCHIDA
• Age Rating: Suitable for 15 years and over

This Standard Edition is presented on three Blu-ray discs.

Experience this essential piece of Japanese cinema history, featuring incredible swordplay and dramatic depth, presented with modern restoration quality.