Despite all the politics, this is still a truly great story of vengeance. Those who have only seen Kill Bill and Uma Thurman owe it to themselves to see what great film-making inspired that movie. It's incredible to see an actress more than 30 years ago portray such a powerful female character who easily says more with her eyes or just a look than any modern actress can or could ever do. Anyone who thinks Japanese women are subservient or walk ten paces behind the man need only watch this actress show just how strong a female can be in Japan and is so obviously responsible for so many of the powerful female roles we take for granted in today's films. While the first film is probably the best, they all deserve to be seen and appreciated.
