It all started here

Rating: 9/10 (20 November 2004)

My love for film that is. When I saw this almost 20 years ago, I realised that art was something different to what I'd previously imagined. I recently watched this again, and time has indeed been kind to this film. I was yet again totally enthralled by the sweeping vistas and clever action. Even though it was an interpretation of a Shakespearean play,it still came across as fresh and vivid. It takes a brave artist to feel they could add to Shakespeare's work. This film is a success at every level. The slow treachery that builds up is exquisite to watch. As with all Japanese films, the theme of loss is recurrent all through the film. But its the pacing that sets this film above and beyond the reach of others. From start to finish it is a treat for the eye and for the mind. A superb, stunning piece of work.