Shogun Assassin A.K.A. Lone Wolf and Cub • 子連れ狼 (1980)

Shogun Assassin (1980), also released as Lone Wolf and Cub and Kozure Ōkami (子連れ狼), is a Japanese samurai action classic created for American audiences by Robert Houston from the first two Lone Wolf and Cub films directed by legendary filmmaker Kenji Misumi. Starring Tomisaburo Wakayama, Kayo Matsuo, Minoru Ohki, Akiji Kobayashi, Shin Kishida, and Masahiro Tomikawa, this cult favorite introduced generations of Western audiences to one of Japan's greatest samurai sagas. Featuring unforgettable swordplay, dramatic storytelling, and iconic performances, it remains an essential release for collectors of Japanese action cinema. Available from ClassicKungFuMovies.com for collectors seeking rare samurai classics and hard-to-find physical media.

STORY OVERVIEW

When master executioner Ogami Ittō refuses to submit to the powerful Yagyū Clan, his wife is brutally murdered and he is falsely branded a traitor to the Shogunate. Choosing the path of the assassin, he embarks on a relentless journey across feudal Japan with his young son, Daigoro, accepting deadly contracts while seeking vengeance against those responsible for destroying his family.

Traveling the infamous Demon Way in Hell, father and son confront waves of assassins, elite swordsmen, and ruthless enemies determined to end their quest. Every battle brings Ogami Ittō closer to his final confrontation with the Yagyū Clan in one of cinema's greatest tales of honor, sacrifice, and revenge.

SAMURAI ACTION HIGHLIGHTS

Shogun Assassin showcases lightning-fast katana duels, brutal battlefield combat, and the unforgettable swordsmanship that made the Lone Wolf and Cub series legendary. Kenji Misumi's stylish direction, combined with Tomisaburo Wakayama's commanding performance, creates some of the most influential samurai action sequences ever filmed.

WHY COLLECTORS PICK IT

Collectors prize Shogun Assassin for introducing the legendary Lone Wolf and Cub saga to Western audiences through an unforgettable feature-length presentation. Tomisaburo Wakayama delivers one of the defining performances in samurai cinema, while the film's breathtaking sword fights, emotional father-and-son story, and striking cinematography have earned it enduring cult status. Its influence can be seen in countless action films, including Quentin Tarantino's Kill Bill, while memorable dialogue was famously sampled throughout GZA's classic Wu-Tang Clan album Liquid Swords.

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Released in 1980 for international audiences, Shogun Assassin introduced millions of viewers to the acclaimed Lone Wolf and Cub series and helped establish Japanese samurai cinema as a worldwide phenomenon. Decades later, it remains one of the most influential cult action films ever released, inspiring filmmakers, musicians, and martial arts fans around the globe.

• Verified AKAs:
  • Shogun Assassin – International English title
  • Lone Wolf and Cub – American release branding
  • Kozure Ōkami – Hepburn romanization
  • Kozure Okami – Alternate romanization
  • 子連れ狼 – Original Japanese title
• Created By: Robert Houston
• Source Films Directed By: Kenji Misumi
• Starring: Tomisaburo Wakayama, Kayo Matsuo, Minoru Ohki, Akiji Kobayashi, Shin Kishida, Masahiro Tomikawa
• Studio: Katsu
• Format: DVD
• Language: English
• Running Time: 81 Minutes
• Region: All Regions
• Country: Japan
• Release Year: 1980

Carefully researched and prepared for collectors of classic martial arts cinema by ClassicKungFuMovies.com.