If you can't enjoy fiction, then why do you watch movies?

Rating: 8/10 (25 June 2004)

This movie was powerful and stunningly beautiful. Yes, it was a story that's been done, but how many original stories *are* there? I always welcome another wonderful telling of a beloved familiar tale.
The Samurai were not fighting the railroad, per se, but rather were fighting for a way of life. They were fighting the evil of greed and of cultural genocide. Yes, they trained as disciplined warriors, but they also balanced life with the appreciation of the world around them. Gold didn't fill their hearts as much as the perfect blossoms on a tree. To me, THAT was the whole point, and it was beautifully told.
The Emperor was young and weak, as in so many other stories and in history as well, I assume. It reminded me of The Three Musketeers, and of how the young King of France was manipulated by the Cardinal. The power behind the throne is often what rules.
Very violent but breathtakingly photographed and edited, with an emotionally moving soundtrack by Hans Zimmer (who can do no wrong in my book).
If you can't get lost in the movies and just go with them; let them take you where they will, then why do you watch them...???
** Hunca **