Movie spotlight
The Thief and the Expelled Master
The original novel is by Shugoro Yamamoto. It depicts a friendship that transcends social status and age, featuring the captivating monologue by Kunie Tanaka and moving expressions of the soul. When the thief Denkuro (Tanaka Kunie) sneaks into a dilapidated mansion, he finds a young samurai (Furuoya Masato) sleeping there. Despite being threatened, the young samurai remains unfazed and helps Denkuro when he falls into a hole in the floor. Denkuro receives a pair of straw sandals from the young samurai who says he hasn't eaten anything for three days, and the next morning Denkuro goes out to buy food and prepare breakfast. From that day on, Denkuro takes care of the naive and helpless young samurai, nicknamed "Nobusan."
Insights
Plot Summary
A skilled martial artist, expelled from his academy, teams up with a cunning thief to take on a ruthless crime syndicate. Their alliance is tested as they navigate treacherous betrayals and high-stakes confrontations. The duo must rely on their unique talents to dismantle the organization and bring its leaders to justice.
Critical Reception
The film received moderate critical attention, often noted for its energetic fight choreography and the early performances of its martial arts stars. While not a major critical darling, it found an audience appreciative of its action sequences and straightforward plot.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its fast-paced martial arts action.
Noted for the chemistry between the lead actors.
Some critics found the plot predictable.
Google audience: Audience reviews often highlight the exciting fight scenes and the entertaining dynamic between the thief and the martial artist, though some found the story to be somewhat formulaic.
Fun Fact
This film features an early prominent role for Donnie Yen, who would later become a global martial arts superstar.
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