King of Swashbuckler: Life of Tsumasaburō Bandō

The documentary explores the legacy of Tsumasaburō Bandō, a prominent figure in silent film, through interviews with directors and individuals who contributed to the film industry. Shunsui Matsuda, known for his role as a silent film narrator and collector, produced this work as part of a project celebrating the 20th anniversary of a silent film appreciation society.

Running for 91 minutes, the film incorporates scenes from period dramas featuring Bandō, showcasing his influence on Japanese cinema. Although completed in 1980, it wasn't released to the public until 1993, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of Bandō's death and Matsuda's seventh anniversary. This timeline adds a unique layer to the documentary's significance in preserving cinematic history.