This is a very good movie with only a few minor flaws. The cast is exceptional, being many of Japans most better working actors today - the finest being Nakai Kiichi who brings a depth of character and sensitivity to his role which transcends any language barrier. The other main role played by Koichi Sato ( the son of one legendary Mikuni Rentaro )who also does an excellent job of drawing the audience into the fabric of story.
For any viewer who is not familiar with Japanese history and the transition between the end of the Tokugawa Shogonate and the modern era which was ushered in with the Meiji Restoration, the back story will lose some of its richness. The Shinsengumi and its principle characters, though relatively unknown to the west, stand iconic to the Japanese and so much of the interplay between them and the two principle characters is understated and will slip by the average western viewer. I would recommend reading any of Romulous Hillsbourough's books before watching the movie only because the depth of the film will only be increased by doing so. This is a recommendation though not a prerequisite of course.
This movie had a beautiful look and texture with some shots who color tones and composition are as precise as traditional woodblock prints. The sword play is some of the best ( and most realistic ) I have seen in a samurai film with Sakai Masato absolutely brilliant as Okita Soji. The fighting is brutal and bloody, well choreographed and stylish without being stylized. There is still a deadly dance quality to the swordplay, though it maintains its integrity and honesty to form.
My only complaint with the movie is that it could use some minor cutting. The acting in Nakai Kiichi final scene is astonishingly beautiful, but it seriously goes on too long and will threaten even the most patient viewer to loose interest.
In closing, let me say that this movie goes where the Last Samurai should have gone - straight to the heart and soul of a samurai.
For any viewer who is not familiar with Japanese history and the transition between the end of the Tokugawa Shogonate and the modern era which was ushered in with the Meiji Restoration, the back story will lose some of its richness. The Shinsengumi and its principle characters, though relatively unknown to the west, stand iconic to the Japanese and so much of the interplay between them and the two principle characters is understated and will slip by the average western viewer. I would recommend reading any of Romulous Hillsbourough's books before watching the movie only because the depth of the film will only be increased by doing so. This is a recommendation though not a prerequisite of course.
This movie had a beautiful look and texture with some shots who color tones and composition are as precise as traditional woodblock prints. The sword play is some of the best ( and most realistic ) I have seen in a samurai film with Sakai Masato absolutely brilliant as Okita Soji. The fighting is brutal and bloody, well choreographed and stylish without being stylized. There is still a deadly dance quality to the swordplay, though it maintains its integrity and honesty to form.
My only complaint with the movie is that it could use some minor cutting. The acting in Nakai Kiichi final scene is astonishingly beautiful, but it seriously goes on too long and will threaten even the most patient viewer to loose interest.
In closing, let me say that this movie goes where the Last Samurai should have gone - straight to the heart and soul of a samurai.