I am always more enchanted by the swift movements of the swords rather than the sound of firepower. Hence ?The Last Samurai? by Warner Bros and directed by Edward Zwick was a natural choice for me.
The story sketches two warriors who are culturally miles apart. The underlying elements, which bind them together, are the essentials of a True Warrior ? Bravery & Attitude. Tom Cruise as Captain Nathan Agren plays the hero, much to the likes of Hollywood fans. Captain Algren is an American war hero, who is employed by a wealthy influential Japanese as a mercenary to train the Japanese fight the ?savage? samurais.
Samurai?s purpose in life is to serve the kingdom. However the king had almost become a puppet at the hands of some influential Japanese who plays into the hands of Americans.( I wonder why the Hollywood film makers also want to portray America?s imperialistic intentions ? may be they are trying be in line with the current intentions of their representatives) Our hero is captured by the Samurai, Katsumoto played by Ken Watanabe(nominated for this year?s Oscars for his supporting role). And he is left to heal with the widowed wife, Taka (played by Koyuki) of the warrior Captain Angrel had killed in the battle.
As expected, Captain develops something similar to Stockholm Syndrome where the captive accepts the cause of captor. Captain picks up the necessary sword skills and wins the hearts of people around, including Taka. He tows the samurai line to serve the emperor and the kingdom. However in the final battle almost all samurais are wiped off by the firepower of proponents of modern Japan.
The characterization of Katsumoto is complex and Ken Watanabe gives a controlled performance. There was nothing to be noted in Tom Cruise?s acting. Taka, the widow speaks few words but conveys lot. Koyuki beautifully enacts the self-suppression of the sexual urge of Taka.
Dialogues don?t stand out. Mostly are interspersed with some philosophical bits.
Katsumoto: Do you believe a man can change his destiny?
Algren: I believe a man does what he can until his destiny is revealed.
The background score is excellent reaching crescendos during battle scenes. The swish of the swords and the piercing (for the lack of a better word) of wind by the modern machines were noticeable. The battle scene editing needs special mention, especially the attack on Katsumoto. Without the touch of romance the valour of ancient heroes are portrayed (Hello, anyone in Bollywood hearing?). Fantastic Shots on landscapes!
The Bottom Line: A well-made film, which takes a Middle Path between the art and the commercial versions. Remember Buddha who was also shown in idols in the film also preached a Middle path.
The film seemed to me as shallow. Was there any thing to take home? The emperor in one of the closing scenes mentions about the importance of ?not leaving the traditional values? while embracing modernity. But haven?t we heard that again and again?
And finally, who is the last samurai? Captain or Katsumoto?