The Bushido Blade
Although this film was derided as an attempt to copy the hit TV mini-series Shogun (1980), it was actually made in 1978, before Shogun (1980), though it wasn't released until after that series had aired.,The producers gratefully acknowledge the cooperation of Toho Studios staff and personnel in the production of this picture.,First shown in USA in a 92-minute version on cable television, prior to a theatrical release in the USA of the complete 104-minute version, this retitled "The Bloody Bushido Blade.",Featured in Vintage Video: A Chronological 80's Film Rewatch Podcast: 0249 The Bushido Blade (1981) (2021),Great cast. Too bad the rest of it couldn't match up.

Richard Boone plays a growling Cmmdr. Perry in his last role. And REALLY chews it up.

Frank (Coronet Blue) Converse (The real star) attempts to be an action hero. Not enough action though. And He's a little wooden.

Any Asian actor with a name dropped by for a cameo. Seeing the late, great Toshiro Mifune reprise most of his previous samurai roles was nice. And Sonny Chiba's warrior cliché is something I never get tired of. Then there's Mako as the cliché' wise man.

Laura (GODDESS) Gemser showing up made it worth the price of a rental. (To me anyway. She is GORGEOUS.) Seeing a young Mike Starr was kind of cool. He was obviously meant to be comedy relief.

James Earl Jones role should have been larger. Is this film still cut? An adventure story about finding a stolen sword could have and should have been a lot better.

And that minstrel show on the ship might anger a few people...even if it is based on facts of the times.

Not a waste...not unmissable either.,