You know what the real problem with Japanese comic books is? They are too dam' sentimental! Despite their blood and gore and soft-core porn babes, these monstrosities fall in love too often; weep too often; struggle with their consciences too often; and philosophize when they should be taking action.
Really, everybody involved with this film - and the hundreds like it - should be chained down to watch Yojimbo a hundred and eighty times before they are allowed to make another film.
Look, the Hagekakura says that the way of the samurai is to charge right in - a samurai ought to be able to strike his target even after his head is severed from its body! - this is what I'm looking for in Japanese sword-fight films! Now, lay off the saccharine and gimme the saki!