The Brave Japanese Warrior Is Magnificent

Rating: 9/10 (14 October 2006)

Although the recent antics of Tom Cruise have made his acting skills even more suspect, he has fashioned a magnificent film, as producer. His acting doesn't come across as a very believable cavalry soldier, who comes to revere his captors, (akin to a Patty Hearst syndrome, or the realization of who are the real heroes in a feudal war of commerce). When he dons the samurai gear for battle, it's almost laughable, (or pathetic). The real star of the film, is without a doubt, Ken Watanabe. Powerful, and a visual delight, as leader of the last samurais, he commands the screen in every scene. His Japanese compatriots and supporting cast are, also, extraordinarily attractive and accomplished. The cinematography is authentic and gorgeous. The costumes should have won an Oscar. The story progresses like a folk tale, and concludes with a major question. This tends to leave it, unfortunately, unsatisfying and unfulfilled.