The best movie of the year.

Rating: 10/10 (14 December 2003)

The Last Samurai barely tops Pirates of the Caribbean as the best film of 2003. The story, the acting, the battles, and the overall presence of this film are just slightly below Braveheart. When I say barely I mean by an amount so small it's hard to notice. The battle scenes were very well played out and the plot had you captivated as soon as the movie started. This may be the best Tom Cruise movie yet. The only problem I can see with this movie is the fact that you have to read a lot of subtitles but to a true movie fan it is not that big of deal. The Japanese co-stars did a remarkable job as well. This is a story that truly makes you appreciate the historical culture that once ruled Japan. I recommend this movie to everyone who liked Braveheart for they will not be disappointed. I also recommend this to any true movie fan who appreciates a good movie.