We review Zatoichi in Desperation (1972), the twenty fourth film in the long running Zatoichi franchise, and the first directed by Shintaro Katsu himself.  Despite possessing a plot not dissimilar to countless other entries in the series, the film's uncharacteristically bleak tone, quasi experimental cinematography, grimy, grind-house feel, and funky 70s soundtrack imbue the work with a bold flavor that other entries lack.  Tune in for the full review! Timestamps:[[Blade Licking Thieves is made with Jetpack Podcast. Full show notes and every episode at https://bladelickingthieves.wordpress.com/