Kagemusha (1980)

Kagemusha 1980 / 影武者 1980 / Shadow Warrior

Set in the 16th century, as a petty thief is granted reprieve from crucifixion because he is the spitting image of the warlord Shingen. Shingen often sends an impersonator out into battle in his place to keep the morale of his troops up while conveniently keeping himself out of harm’s way. Obviously, the thief’s appearance makes him the perfect choice for the role of kagemusha (shadow warrior). Unfortunately Shingen is mortally wounded by a sniper while watching a battle and with his dying wish he passes leadership on to the kagemusha, with the order that no one is to hear of his demise for three years. Can a common criminal rise up and lead his new clan to victory over his predecessor’s rivals or will he be discovered before he has the chance?