Lone Wolf and Cub (1972) Review in 2025
Lone Wolf and Cub is a classic samurai film that follows the story of Ogami Itto, a former samurai who is on a quest for revenge with his young son.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for young children due to graphic violence and mature themes.
CineReview Recommendation
This film is a must-watch for fans of samurai cinema and action-adventure films. It's also a great introduction to the Lone Wolf and Cub series, which is known for its complex characters and engaging storylines.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film is set in feudal Japan and follows Ogami Itto, a ronin who is on a mission to avenge his wife's death. Along the way, he faces various challenges and battles, while also teaching his son the ways of the samurai.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a clear goal for the protagonist to achieve. However, some scenes feel a bit disconnected from the main plot.
acting9.50/10
The acting is superb, with Tomisaburo Wakayama delivering a standout performance as Ogami Itto. The chemistry between him and his co-stars is also excellent.
characters9.50/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Ogami Itto being a particularly compelling protagonist. His relationship with his son is also a highlight of the film.
direction8.50/10
The direction is solid, with a good balance of action and drama. However, some scenes feel a bit rushed and could have benefited from more development.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is excellent, with beautiful shots of the Japanese countryside and well-choreographed fight scenes.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Engaging story, well-developed characters, excellent cinematography, and superb acting.
Cons
Some scenes feel a bit disconnected from the main plot, and the pacing could be improved in some areas.
Notable Quotes
"A ronin's life is a hard one."
"A samurai's honor is his life."
