The Sword of Doom [Criterion Collection] [DVD] [1966]

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The Criterion Collection carries over one of their most underappreciated samurai releases from laserdisc to DVD with Kihachi Okamoto's 1965 production of The Sword of Doom. Though light on extras, the film has been remastered and restored with a high-definition transfer that gorgeously shows off its stark black-and-white cinematography. While the image does have some shimmering problems along with some age marks, the picture is stunning and is easily the most important feature on the disc. Sound is presented in the original Japanese mono signal and is more than acceptable, considering its original source. Worthy of mention as well is a new and improved English subtitle translation as well as a lengthy essay by critic Geoffrey O'Brien. While the company could have put a bit more time into the extras, the disc is still something that enthusiasts will clamor to put into their collection.