Legend of the Eight Samurai, Kinji Fukasaku’s adventure from the early 1980s, arrives on Blu-ray February 18 as part of Eureka Entertainment’s Masters of Cinema Series. Limited to 2000 copies per territory, this edition includes a slipcase with artwork by Chris Malbon and a collector’s booklet. It’s the first time the film has been restored and released on Blu-ray outside Japan, sourced from a fresh 4K restoration.
Set during a time of feuding clans and vengeful spirits, the story follows Princess Shizu, the last survivor of the Satomi Clan, as she flees the undead Hikita Clan. Fate brings her together with Shinbei, a farmer-turned-soldier, and soon she crosses paths with the Hakkenden—legendary “Dog Warriors” who hold the key to saving her bloodline. Boasting a cast that includes Sonny Chiba, Hiroko Yakushimaru, Hiroyuki Sanada, and Etsuko Shihomi, this film mixes fantasy and historical drama, taking inspiration from Toshio Kamata’s interpretation of Kyokutei Bakin’s epic source material.
The extras-packed release features original Japanese audio, an English dub track, and newly translated subtitles.
Legend of the Eight Samurai offers multiple commentary tracks, a fresh interview with Kinji Fukasaku’s son Kenta, and a video essay by Stuart Galbraith IV.
A theatrical trailer and various insights from film historians round out this deluxe package. For those who appreciate classic Japanese cinema, this special edition Blu-ray brings a striking new vision of a cult favorite.
