American Samurai: The Director’s Cut Finally Arrives

The long-awaited American Samurai: Director’s Cut is set to drop on March 13th, coinciding with director Sam Firstenberg’s 75th birthday. This re-edited version aims to restore the cult classic to its original glory, offering fans the version of the film that was initially envisioned before studio interference altered its narrative and structure.

A Martial Arts Cult Classic Reborn

Originally released in 1992 and described as Bloodsport with blades, American Samurai stars David Bradley and Mark Dacascos in a gripping tale of brotherhood, betrayal, and honor. The story follows Andrew Collins, the lone survivor of a plane crash in the Japanese mountains, who is raised by a samurai master and trained in the warrior’s way alongside his stepbrother Kenjiro. However, jealousy pushes Kenjiro into the arms of the Yakuza, setting the stage for an inevitable showdown between the two brothers in a brutal underground weapons-based martial arts tournament.

The Road to Redemption

Despite its potential, American Samurai was plagued by studio interference upon its original release. Scenes were rearranged, crucial sequences were added without the director’s consent, and the final cut suffered from continuity errors and a disjointed flow. Now, after 33 years, director Sam Firstenberg and editor Lyle Goodwin have worked together to restore the film to its true form.

Goodwin has meticulously reconstructed the movie using two different versions, ensuring that the authentic graphic violence in the fight sequences is reinstated, out-of-sequence scenes are corrected, and the original dramatic moments are restored. The new version also features revitalized music, additional sound effects, and newly designed opening and closing credits.

Director and Editor Speak Out

Reflecting on the final cut, Firstenberg states:

"I have just finished viewing the final cut of AMERICAN SAMURAI and let me tell you all, this is one bad ass, exciting, captivating, compelling movie. It is as close as possible to the original version as can be. The work Lyle did on it is fabulous. The titles and credit montages are works of art. The new transitions are a very refreshing and enriching addition. And all the tweaking and improving within the fights are welcomed enhancements."

Goodwin describes the process as a year-long adventure, bringing together all the available elements to recreate the film’s original pacing and structure. However, not all of the original fight footage was recoverable, meaning that while this version is the most complete to date, some lost elements remain beyond reach.

"Pay close attention. You're going to see a lot of little things that have been changed. There are so many shots and portions of scenes that were taken completely out of sequence, that it would take me days to put them back in." - Lyle Goodwin

Fans React

News of the restoration has already sparked excitement among martial arts film enthusiasts:

• Nathan Tasker: "Wow, this is absolutely stunning. I can’t wait to celebrate with you all in viewing this cult classic movie again in the way it was originally intended."

• Ray Jim: "Sweet."

• Renato Novakovic: "Can’t wait."

Release Date and Availability

Set for release on March 13th, 2024, American Samurai: Director’s Cut will allow fans to finally experience this martial arts action gem as Firstenberg originally intended.