Beautiful Film...but really an attempt at a one man show

Rating: 7/10 (5 December 2003)

In a year filled with epics, The Last Samurai stands out as one based in an aspect not often viewed by the world's eye.
Set in 1870's Japan, The Last Samurai stars Tom Cruise as a disenchanted Civil War/Little Big Horn veteran hired to modernize the Japanese army into a western fighting force. However Cruise is captured by a rebel samurai faction, led by Ken Watanabe, and during the winter, Cruise comes in contact with the true meaning of the "warrior spirit."
First it should be noted that The Last Samurai is one of the most beautiful films of the year. Set in picturesque Japan...we definitely get the idea that this is where we are. Director Edward Zwick did a good job of letting the scenery take us to this time period, and should be commended on that element.
Zwick also does a good job delivering an enthralling, if predictable, storyline. The actors save for one are very believable in their roles, especially Watanabe who delivers an Oscar caliber performance as the Samurai leader.
Unfortunately the movies biggest attraction is also it's biggest detraction. Cruise doesn't deliver the Oscar-caliber performance he so desperately wants to deliver...and unfortunately Zwick spends too much time trying to give Cruise those soul-searching moments at awkward points in the story. Cruise is the only element that takes us out of the world and back into reality.
As far as historical epics go...you are much better off seeing Master and Commander. For while this one is good, it lacks the touch necessary to make it a classic.
7/10