Brilliant, I remember watching this as a kid, and being totally fascinated by the Japanese way of life, its like a history lesson, action, drama, suspense, love, betrayal, suicide, murder, being scared and excited, I never wanted this series to end. I dont really think there will be anything like this made ever again, Soundtrack is superb, although you will be hard pressed to find it. If you like this watch the Last Samurai, if you want another fix of Japanese drama. and at 9hrs long Great. Toshiro Mifune fantasic, Richard Chamberlin Brilliant. and yes it has got Ninja's in it......LOADS OF EM.... They don't seem to make em like this anymore... seriously