In a publicity move before the release of the new Kitano Takeshi version, the entire “Zatoichi” movie series is to be released on DVD. In 18 films released over a period of eight years (1960-68), Katsu Shintaro played the blind swordsman, a role that made him one of the biggest stars of his generation. A peroxide blond Takeshi has said he would never have considered reviving the role while Katsu was alive. But next month will see a televised Buddhist ceremony to mark the 6th anniversary of his death, and the September release has the full approval of his widow, popular actress Nakamura Tamao (64). We can expect a Zatoichi boom this autumn.