TP063

2024

Movies and TV

Shimazu is a recurring character appearing in various Japanese media, most notably the film Shogun Assassin (1980) and its source material, the Lone Wolf and Cub manga series by Kazuo Koike and Goseki Kojima. He is often portrayed as a skilled and honorable samurai.

In Shogun Assassin, Shimazu, portrayed by Tomisaburo Wakayama (who also played Ogami Itto, the titular "Lone Wolf"), is a powerful and influential member of the Shogun's court. His role is often that of an antagonist, although his motives are rooted in loyalty and duty, rather than outright malice. He is typically depicted as a formidable warrior with political savvy.

Variations in adaptation may depict him differently, but Shimazu consistently embodies the traditional values of Bushido, showcasing the complex moral landscape of feudal Japan. He is a key figure in shaping the narrative and challenging the protagonist, Ogami Itto.