Hideji Ōtaki

As Shingen, a powerful warlord, lies dying from his battle wounds, he orders his clan to find a double to replace him -- to keep his death secret so his enemies won't attack. The man chosen for this role turns out to be a petty criminal who must somehow transform into a great leader of samurai warriors. It is a milestone in Akira Kurosawa's career.

Balancing physical action with Buddhist musings on life and death, the most spiritual of the Lone Wolf and Cub films finds Ogami’s combat skills put to the test by five different warrior-messengers.