I am a big fan of Takeshi Kitano, though I've found that I sometimes have to see his films twice before I can truly absorb them. I suspect that many in the West mistakenly characterize him as a Japanese John Woo making violent action movies, but his films are much more subtle than that. in addition, he's got a comic, formal style that rcalls Tati and Keaton, especially in films like "Kikijuro" (my favorite Takeshi film).
"Zatoichi" is a terrific revision of more mythic samurai films (especially "Yojimbo" and "Sanjuro"), with the traditional themes of honor and heroism treated almost disdainfully. I would take exception to the comment that the musical segments were a distraction. Not only are they effective as moments of pure playful formalism, they also draw attention to the soundtrack, simultaneously drawing attention to their artifice while reminding us of the heightened sensual awareness of the hero..
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