First of nine films based on the novel. The first live-action adaptation focuses on the origins of how Akadô Suzunosuke learned his skills as a swordsman.

In the first two films we learn the character's origins, including his childhood and how he learned his fighting skills. Later, he must face his friend, who has joined a gang of criminals.

The heroic warrior uses his magical powers and great sword skills to battle a criminal gang who all wear devil outfits.

Suzunosuke visits a martial arts master and tries to learn the 'Vacuum Slash,' a secret technique of producing tornadoes.

The swordsman again crosses paths with the murderous Devil Mask Gang -- who as the name suggests, all wear hideous devil masks.

The magical swordsman battles a gang of cutthroats, who are led by a peg-legged villain.

Suzunosuke faces perhaps his wildest foes. This evil gang is lead by a one-eyed birdman and other demonic creatures.

1958 Japanese movie