Eryn Majors

Written by Eryn Majors

Modified & Updated: 05 Mar 2024

Jessica Corbett

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

49-facts-about-the-movie-shogun-assassin
Source: Plex.tv

Shogun Assassin is a cult classic film that holds a special place in the hearts of movie enthusiasts. Released in 1980, this martial arts action film is an adaptation of the popular Japanese manga series, Lone Wolf and Cub. Directed by Robert Houston and Kenji Misumi, Shogun Assassin tells the story of a samurai warrior who embarks on a quest for vengeance, accompanied by his young son.

With its iconic stylized violence, captivating storyline, and memorable characters, Shogun Assassin has garnered a dedicated following over the years. In this article, we will delve into 49 fascinating facts about the movie, taking a closer look at its production, cast, and impact on the world of cinema.

Key Takeaways:

  • “Shogun Assassin” is a cult classic film that combines two Japanese movies, featuring intense sword fights and a captivating samurai quest for revenge. It has influenced filmmakers like Quentin Tarantino and continues to inspire audiences worldwide.
  • The movie’s iconic characters, stunning visuals, and emotional depth have solidified its status as a genre-defining classic. With its unique blend of action, drama, and philosophy, “Shogun Assassin” continues to captivate and inspire audiences to this day.
Table of Contents

Shogun Assassin is a cult classic film.

Released in 1980, it quickly gained a devoted following and has since become a beloved cult film.

The movie is a re-edit of two Japanese films.

Shogun Assassin is actually a combination of the first two films from the Lone Wolf and Cub series, edited together for an international release.

The film follows the story of a samurai seeking revenge.

The protagonist, Ogami Itt?, is a disgraced samurai who embarks on a quest for vengeance with his young son.

Shogun Assassin is known for its violent and graphic content.

The film features numerous sword fights and intense scenes of bloodshed, contributing to its reputation as a visually striking and intense movie.

The movie was a major influence on Quentin Tarantino.

Tarantino has cited Shogun Assassin as one of his favorite movies and has referenced it in his own films. The style and themes of Shogun Assassin can be seen in Tarantino’s Kill Bill series.

Shogun Assassin has a distinctive soundtrack.

The film’s score, composed by W. Michael Lewis and Mark Lindsay, features a mix of traditional Japanese music and Western-style synth-pop.

The movie was originally released in Japan under a different title.

In Japan, the film series is known as “Kozure ?kami,” which translates to “Wolf with Child.

Shogun Assassin was initially banned in several countries.

Due to its violent nature, the film faced censorship challenges and was banned in certain countries upon its initial release.

The main character, Ogami Itt?, is played by Tomisaburo Wakayama.

Wakayama’s portrayal of the stoic and deadly samurai has become iconic in the world of martial arts cinema.

Shogun Assassin is set in feudal Japan.

The film provides a captivating portrayal of the samurai era, showcasing the customs, traditions, and conflicts of that time.

There are a total of six films in the original Lone Wolf and Cub series.

Shogun Assassin is a condensed version of the first two films, but the complete series consists of six movies.

The movie features stunning cinematography.

The visuals in Shogun Assassin are breathtaking, with beautifully composed shots that enhance the overall atmosphere of the film.

Shogun Assassin was a low-budget production.

The film was made on a shoestring budget, but its creative editing and impactful storytelling allowed it to overcome budget constraints.

The movie blends action with emotional depth.

While Shogun Assassin is primarily known for its action sequences, it also delves into themes of honor, family, and sacrifice.

Shogun Assassin has inspired numerous homages and tributes.

Many filmmakers and artists have paid homage to the film, showcasing its enduring influence on popular culture.

The film includes narration by a child character.

Ogami Itt?’s young son provides narration throughout the movie, adding a unique perspective to the story.

Shogun Assassin features epic duels with other skilled warriors.

Ogami Itt? faces off against a variety of formidable opponents, each with their own fighting style and unique weapons.

The movie’s fight choreography is highly-praised.

Shogun Assassin features expertly choreographed sword fights and action sequences that showcase the skill and precision of the characters.

There is a sense of melancholy throughout the film.

Despite its intense nature, Shogun Assassin also carries a sense of sadness and tragedy, deepening the emotional impact of the story.

Shogun Assassin has a dedicated fan base.

The film has stood the test of time and continues to attract new fans, who appreciate its unique blend of action and storytelling.

The movie’s release was met with critical acclaim.

Shogun Assassin received positive reviews upon its release, with critics praising its visual style and engaging narrative.

The film features stunning costumes and set designs.

The attention to detail in the film’s costumes and set designs transport viewers to the world of feudal Japan.

Shogun Assassin has gained a reputation as a stylish and cult action film.

The movie’s distinctive visuals and memorable characters have contributed to its status as a cult classic in the action genre.

The film’s dialogue is sparse but impactful.

Shogun Assassin relies on visual storytelling, allowing the actions and expressions of the characters to speak for themselves.

The movie has inspired comic book adaptations.

Shogun Assassin has been adapted into comic book form, allowing fans to further explore the story and characters.

Shogun Assassin features memorable quotes.

The film has several notable lines that have become ingrained in popular culture, further solidifying its place in cinema history.

The action sequences in the film are fast-paced and intense.

Shogun Assassin keeps audiences on the edge of their seats with its adrenaline-fueled fight scenes and expertly executed stunts.

The film’s popularity led to the creation of various merchandise.

From DVDs and Blu-rays to action figures and posters, Shogun Assassin has spawned a wide range of collectibles for fans to enjoy.

The movie has been referenced in other forms of media.

Shogun Assassin has been mentioned or paid homage to in various films, TV shows, and music videos throughout the years.

The film’s story explores themes of loyalty and betrayal.

Ogami Itt? confronts numerous challenges that test his loyalty to his code and his ultimate quest for revenge.

Shogun Assassin features beautifully crafted swordplay.

The intricate sword fighting scenes are masterfully choreographed, adding to the film’s overall impact.

The movie showcases the complexities of the Samurai code.

Shogun Assassin delves into the intricate rules and traditions followed by the samurai, highlighting the conflicts between duty and personal justice.

The film’s protagonist has become an iconic character in cinema history.

Ogami Itt?’s stoic and deadly persona has solidified him as one of the most memorable samurai characters in film.

Shogun Assassin is considered a genre-defining film.

The movie helped popularize the samurai genre and inspired future filmmakers to explore similar themes and storytelling techniques.

The film received a remastered release in recent years.

A remastered version of Shogun Assassin was released, allowing audiences to experience the film in high definition.

The movie’s impact extends beyond its initial release.

Shogun Assassin continues to be celebrated and analyzed by film scholars, highlighting its enduring significance in cinema history.

The film’s editing played a crucial role in its success.

The re-editing of the two original films into Shogun Assassin allowed for a streamlined narrative that captivated international audiences.

Shogun Assassin features compelling and well-developed characters.

From the enigmatic Ogami Itt? to the various adversaries he encounters, each character brings depth and complexity to the story.

The movie’s pacing keeps viewers engaged from start to finish.

Shogun Assassin expertly balances moments of intense action with quieter, character-driven scenes, ensuring that the audience remains invested throughout.

The film has been praised for its atmospheric storytelling.

Shogun Assassin skillfully utilizes its visuals, music, and narrative to create a captivating and immersive world.

The movie explores the father-son bond amidst a dangerous journey.

Ogami Itt?’s relationship with his young son, who accompanies him on his quest for vengeance, adds an emotional core to the film.

Shogun Assassin is celebrated for its portrayal of honor and duty.

The film examines the sacrifices made by its characters in the name of honor and the consequences that come with upholding one’s duty.

The movie’s title refers to the main character’s role as an assassin for a Shogun.

Ogami Itt?’s lethal skills and loyalty to his cause make him a formidable and feared assassin within the film’s world.

Shogun Assassin is filled with memorable and visually striking moments.

From the opening sequence to the climactic battles, the film provides numerous iconic scenes that have become ingrained in cinema history.

The movie’s success led to the creation of a video game adaptation.

Shogun Assassin inspired a video game for the Atari Lynx console, allowing players to experience the world of the film in an interactive format.

Shogun Assassin has been praised for its bold and unflinching portrayal of violence.

The film’s graphic scenes contribute to its visceral impact, pushing boundaries and challenging conventional storytelling norms.

The movie’s themes resonate with audiences across cultures.

Despite being set in feudal Japan, Shogun Assassin explores universal themes such as justice, family, and revenge, making it accessible to viewers around the world.

Shogun Assassin has a unique blend of action, drama, and philosophy.

The film seamlessly weaves together intense action sequences, emotional depth, and thought-provoking philosophical ideas, creating a captivating cinematic experience.

Shogun Assassin continues to inspire and captivate audiences to this day.

With its enduring legacy and dedicated fan base, the film’s impact on the world of cinema is undeniable, solidifying its status as a true classic.

Conclusion

Shogun Assassin is a film that holds a special place in the hearts of movie enthusiasts. With its captivating storyline, mesmerizing performances, and iconic scenes, it has earned its status as a cult classic. Whether you’re a fan of martial arts films, historical dramas, or simply enjoy a good action-packed adventure, Shogun Assassin delivers on all fronts.

From its origins as a re-edit of two Japanese films to its influence on future movies and pop culture, Shogun Assassin has left a lasting impact. The film’s success can be attributed to its relentless action sequences, its exploration of the samurai code, and its emotional core.

So, if you’re in the mood for a thrilling journey through feudal Japan, with a badass samurai and a touching father-son story, don’t miss out on Shogun Assassin. It’s a film that will keep you on the edge of your seat and leave you wanting more.

FAQs

1. What is the plot of Shogun Assassin?

Shogun Assassin follows the story of a legendary samurai known as Lone Wolf and Cub. After being betrayed by his former clan, Lone Wolf embarks on a quest for revenge with his young son, Daigoro, by his side. Together, they navigate through a dangerous world filled with assassins, intrigue, and honor.

2. Is Shogun Assassin based on a true story?

No, Shogun Assassin is not based on a true story. It is a fictional tale that draws inspiration from the Lone Wolf and Cub manga series written by Kazuo Koike and illustrated by Goseki Kojima.

3. Can Shogun Assassin be watched as a stand-alone film?

Yes, Shogun Assassin can be enjoyed as a stand-alone film. While it is a re-edit of two Japanese films, it is designed to be a self-contained story that can be appreciated on its own without any prior knowledge of the original movies.

4. What makes Shogun Assassin a cult classic?

Shogun Assassin has achieved cult status due to its unique blend of martial arts action, stunning cinematography, and compelling storytelling. The film’s gritty violence, memorable characters, and revolutionary editing techniques have made it a beloved cult classic among cinema enthusiasts.

5. How has Shogun Assassin influenced popular culture?

Shogun Assassin has had a significant impact on popular culture. It has inspired numerous films, television shows, and hip-hop songs. Its iconic imagery and quotable lines have become synonymous with the samurai genre, leaving a lasting imprint on the world of entertainment.

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