Title: Zoku Miyamoto Musashi: Ichijôji no kettô /
Authors: Inagaki, Hiroshi, 1905-1980,; Mifune, Toshirō, 1920-1997,; Okada, Mariko, 1933-; Yachigusa, Kaoru; Tōhō Kabushiki Kaisha.; Audio Brandon Films.
Year: 1955
Subjects: Miyamoto, Musashi,; Swordsmen Japan Biography; Samurai Japan Drama.; Battles; Dueling Japan.; Martial arts Zen Buddhism.; Fencing; Man-woman relationships Drama; Self-preservation Drama.; Combat.; Young men Japan.
Abstract: The second part of a trilogy directed by Hiroshi Inagaki, Samurai II: Duel at Ichijoji Temple, recreates the legendary swordsman Musashi Miyamoto's duel with his rival Koji Tsuruta. In this segment, Musashi refines his unique fighting style, and delves deeper into Zen Bhuddism. Based on the life of of the seventeenth century samurai, Musashi Miyamoto, this trilogy was one of the first color films produced in Japan. The three films, Legend of Musashi, Duel at Ichijoji Temple and Duel at Ganryu Island, faithfully follow Musashi's career, beginning with his decision to participate in the battle of Sekigahara. After experiencing injury and defeat and living the life of a violent fugitive, Musashi is finally taken prisoner by Takuan Sōhō, a Zen Bhuddist priest who becomes his first teacher. In an effort to tame Musashi's arrogant temperament, Takuan locks Musashi in a castle room for three years. During this time, under the Zen priest's tutelage, Musashi slowly improves his character, ultimately comprehending the real meaning of swordsmanship. After enduring many hardships, and defeating some of Japan's best swordsmen, Musashi Miyamoto's fame spreads across Japan.