Liked it...

Rating: 8/10 (26 January 2004)

Simple enough, I liked this movie. I didn't know what to expect when I went in. Tom Cruise -- some movies you can love him, others you hate him. I feel he was the big name draw for this movie but that it could have been played by any number of other actors. His character in the movie will not be one that defines him. Its just not a Leonardo DiCaprio/Titanic memory.

I enjoyed the supporting cast and the general storyline. Powerful emotion without the melodrama and over acting.
I especially enjoy the spirituality of films like this, much like Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon. I was moved by the final fighting scene in which Katsumoto sees the blossoms and says "they are all perfect". I guess for me that's the kind of Zen I wish I would like to have.
The movie didn't have me looking at my watch -- always a good sign for me! Nor did it have me feeling like the WB should paying ME to be there!