So what's it all about?
Civil War hero Capt. Nathan Algren (Tom Cruise) is
hired by the Japanese government to modernize their army and fight rebel
Samurai. Algren is captured by the Samurai and during his time with them
comes to respect their ways and, eventually pledges himself to their
cause.
Is it any good?
In a nutshell, Samurai is Dances With Wolves, with
the Samurai replacing the Indians. Derivative nature aside, this is one of
the finest movies of the year, featuring some outstanding performances by
all involved. Ken Watanabe, as Samurai lord Katsumoto, deserves special
mention. The movie is wonderfully dramatic, without sacrificing its
potential for action. A superbly balanced picture, that will appeal to
action nuts and film connoisseurs alike.
Score: 4/5
How about those special features?
Now this is what DVD is all about. Aside from the
usual commentaries that are associated with DVD’s the second disc features
some genuinely interesting featurettes. Including, a doccie from the
History channel challenging the authenticity of the movie’s portrayal of
the time. Interviews with the cast and crew regarding various aspects of
the films production and, for once, deleted scenes that you’ll actually
care about.
Score: 3/5
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The
Last Samurai