Nemuri Kyoshiro 8: Burai-ken

The best entry in the series so far. Kyoshiro is more likable in this and the side characters are a bit more interesting as well but the biggest plus is the intricate plot and some of the odd scenes in the movie really help this film stand out.

A somewhat disappointing entry in the series, this film gets bogged down in an unnecessarily convoluted plot that assumes quite a bit of knowledge of Japanese history, and features several shady groups operating with unclear objectives. As a result, Kyoshiro gets less screen time in favor of endless explanatory exposition. It all comes together eventually, but some of the story threads turn out to be kinda pointless. The final duel, set against the backdrop of Edo in flames, is fantastic.