An unexpectedly, and admirably restrained, introspective film

Rating: 9/10 (23 November 2003)

Like many people, it seems, I had severe doubts for this film. From the trailer, it seemed very much like a Dances with Wolves knock-off at best, and typical Hollywood tripe at worst. I am grateful to say that this film surprised me and impressed me on all accounts.
Having studied in the field of Eat Asian Languages and Culture, I was worried about the film's historical accuracy, or lack-thereof, given the period, but I was very impressed with how closely they managed to come while remaining far enough away from the actual historical record to make the events of the film plausible. Most of the major characters, with the exception of the Emperor, are either completely fictional, or based on real historical figures, but with different names. Katsumoto (Watanabe), for example, is obviously based on Saigo Takamori, Japan's greatest cultural hero, and the leader of the 1877 rebellion against the Meiji government (but not the Emperor).
In any case, this film is excellently paced, most thanks to the excellent spot-on acting job across the board from the entire cast. You can actually feel the greater ideas and issues at the core of the conflict, and while many of them remain verbally unstated, they are nonetheless clear to any viewer. Visually, this film is one of the most beautiful films I have ever seen, for the breathtaking backgrounds, the vibrant colors, the attention to minute details such as the cut of clothing, and the ugly beauty of the battles. The soundtrack is perfect.
Just as impressive is Algren's (Cruise) own subplot, about his own quest for personal worth that he is pushed into through the events in the film. Despite what could have been a horribly campy plotline, much of the emotional content of these scenes are implied and left completely unstated, but just as apparent. This act of restraint, so atypical of Hollywood, is one of this film's major strengths.
It's obvious I enjoyed this film, but to put aside many people's apparent fear of the "ethic-woman-loves-minority-killing-white-guy" syndrome, you will not find it in this film (despite the trailer), at least, not as you might expect.
Tom Cruise is excellent in this film, but he is completely overshadowed by the amazing Ken Watanabe as Katsumoto. It should be expected really, as Saigo Takamori, even after his death, defined the very core of the Japanese national mindset. There were only two ways that this character could have turned out, and fortunately for the audience, and this film, it turned out the best way.
Highly recommended.