a beautiful blend of hollywood and Japanese aesthetics

Rating: 10/10 (18 March 2004)

TLS is one of those films that teach so much, about a people and an aspect of their culture, without having to come across as didactic. It does this almost effortlessly by demonstrating-- cinematography, the scenes' mood, production design, great acting, etc. The viewer, if he is 'empty cup' (in the Zen sense), is simply engaged. Although Bushido can be controversial, TLS succeeds as a work of art in evoking sentiments and touching an audience's soul without needing to justify an ideology or give supporting arguments. After all, it's a film-- not a philosophy book. TLS is soft yet strong, gentle yet firm. The battle scenes though violent aren't gory and sensationalized. There is still that sense of humanity and tender feelings even in the killing field. After all, this is not really a war film but a film about a people and a culture permeated by so much beauty, profound realization of impermanence, honor, pride, commitment, filial piety and sensitivity despite the presence of conflicts, imperfection, human frailty and 'birth pangs' that often accompany change. It's one of the best introductions to Japanese culture. I have seen the film 7 times (and intend to watch it again).