...Maybe just a little economical with the truth.

Rating: Null/10 (16 August 2004)

. I don't know much about this period, but surely the whole point of the story was to point out that it is wrong to abandon the cultural and spiritual ideals of the past. By embracing the modern ways you loose far more than you gain. In real life, isn't this what happened? Indeed, you could argue that Japan's move to military expansionism would eventually lead to the Second World War.
(Spoiler) Well, not according to this film it doesn't. The Emperor sees the error of his ways and halts the plans of his ruthless government minister.

Oh well. That's the trouble with historical epics; the need for accuracy is often compromised by the need to create a simplistic view that will maximize the box office potential. So, the courageous Samurai way of life was a perfect match of spirituality and discipline while the life style of the government was cowardly and empty. Ken Watanabe personified the noble leader while poor Masato Marada, who plays the venal Minister, is such a characture of evil I kept expecting him to twiddle with his waxy moustache and cackle sinisterly. (All in Japanese with subtitles, of course  you have to have some authenticity).
As a film, nevertheless, it's well made and entertaining, Edward Zwick is a fine director of epic films. And despite what the critics say, I think Tom Cruise is a fine and underrated actor.
What's moreNo, don't go this way, RobI sure he `fitted' in well with the Japanese cast. I mean he could quite easily wear the same clothes and armour as them, although....stop it, stop it.. they might have had to shrink them a little.. and, of course, he did keep tripping over his sword...And it must...this is not fair..it must have been nice for the Japanese women to have someone they could look down on for a change.
We love you really Tom..