This is a very enchanting and sensitive drama, beautifully filmed, which gives us westerners a very different peek into Japanese life in the late 1800's. The plot is well outlined by others on this site, so no need for me to go into it, other than to say that it takes a very different angle of view to every other Japanese historical film that I have seen to date. The characters are very like some of my friends and neighbours - totally real, and very believable. Many historical Japanese films have the characters shouting harshly at one another throughout the movie. This one is very different. These Japanese actually speak like real people!!!! The swordplay is real and not the stuff of Jeddi Knights! The film has that genuine "handmade" stamp and a "homemade" and wholesome flavour - and not that of some franchise.
This movie is a keeper, one to be enjoyed many times over and its subtleties savoured again and again. Very fine acting, excellent direction and beautiful cinematography - watch it for just the craftsmanship if for nothing else! I highly recommend this film.
This movie is a keeper, one to be enjoyed many times over and its subtleties savoured again and again. Very fine acting, excellent direction and beautiful cinematography - watch it for just the craftsmanship if for nothing else! I highly recommend this film.