A Brilliant Film

Rating: 10/10 (15 January 2005)

It's easy to criticize many areas of this film - the fact that Cruise's character is heavily exaggerated, the fact that this film is not by any means 100% accurate to the historical satsuma rebellion, the fact that there is an unnecessary romance that doesn't do much to help the overall plot. It's Hollywood, guys - of COURSE there is going to be some mish-mash to reel in larger audiences.
Regardless, this is still, for a mainstream Hollywood picture, a fantastic film. It is filled with gorgeous imagery that will stick in your head for days upon seeing. The acting is superb, particularly that of Ken Watanabe, whose emotions are conveyed perfectly, and realistically. He plays a truly inspirational role of which all of us can learn from.
I could go on about how well done this film is, down to its rich musical score, and vibrant camera-work - but I feel it is important to understand the meaning of this film. Japan, for many years, was the only true nation-state in all of our World. Seeing western influences and the flow of time warping what was once a truly admirable and original culture is heartbreaking - and this film captures that painful transition wonderfully. If you open your mind and engage yourself in this film, you will without doubt enjoy it. It is a moving, important work of art that may just leave you reflecting upon your own culture, and how much it has changed over the years.
I may just be over-analyzing, but all the same, I will always have the utmost respect and love for The Last Samurai. Forget Cruise. It's all about Watanabe, and showcasing the strength and virtue of classic Japanese culture.