At the beginning of the movie, Katsumoto dream of a white tiger surrounded by samurais, later when he saw Algren surrounded by samurai defending himself with a spear with the banner of a white tiger attached to it, that's why he look at him intensely!
Common misconception: Algren was not the last Samurai. Katsumoto and his men were the last Samurai. Algren found peace during his time with them, learning to live with the horror of what he'd done in the name of duty, overcoming the alcoholism that was his only escape from those horrible memories, but he was never Samurai. In the end, Algren was simply the lens through which we viewed the end of the Samurai age in Japan.
This movie is definitely one of Tom Cruise's best films. Visually interesting, great action, a very dramatic story and full of good characters and music
The poem about cherry blossoms is quite hard to fully understand at first watch but it's so damn deep. Cherry trees bloom for an extremely short amount of time, then all blossoms die suddenly, like us humans. The briefness of their existence means that finding the perfect blossom (so the perfect "way of life") in our short life is not wasted time. Samurai, and Japanese in general, seek to pursue perfection in their whole life, but they also live the struggle to see that perfection as a very rare thing. In the end, Katsumoto finally understands: all blossoms, in their own way, are perfect. Nathan is basically what helps him to come up with this revelation, because he is an imperfect blossom that is actually perfect in his own way. It's an overall thing that happens throughout all the movie that most people miss, the Japanese society at first sight seems "perfect" but there are few hints that suggest criticism with respect to their rigidity and formalism: for example, the kid finds a more fatherly figure in Nathan rather than his own father - Hirotaro would have never hugged his son because "it is glorious to die in battle", even though the kid is scared to lose his "father", a pretty natural feeling. It's a beautiful way to show how every culture has strengths and weaknesses and the combination of the best of each cultures create a good balance.
The Last Samurai is one of those films that evokes such emotions that I can never get through it without shedding some tears. Cruise’s character is loosely based on a French officer named Jules Brunet who was sent to train the Japanese army of the Tokugawa Shogunate. The Shogunate was overthrown and Brunet joined the Shoguns Forces. For a brief time Brunet held the position of Foreign Minister for the small country they formed on a captured island
While Ken Watanabe’s character was based on Saigo Takamori, one of the revolutionary leaders who overthrew the shogunate and established the Imperial Japan. The character of Omura was based on Omura Masujiro, the founder of Imperial Japanese Army, and Okubo Toshimichi, another revolutionary leader who was a childhood friend of Saigo before having a falling out that led to the conflict in this movie called Satsuma Rebellion.
Much as I loved the "Top Gun" movies, I consider this Cruise's finest work, ever. I've witnessed hardcore combat veterans, men blooded in battle, break down weeping like brokenhearted kids, at some of the more emotional scenes in this movie. Twenty years onward, and it reduces me to tears. Every. Single. Time.
Katsumoto: "The perfect blossom is a rare thing. You could spend your life looking for one, and it would not be a wasted life." Katsumoto while dying: "Perfect. They are all perfect." referring to the Blossoms.
7:08 The Samurai adorned their armors with horns and grinning masks to make themselves appear more demonic to their enemies, resembling the Oni(a yokai/demon known as the japanese ogre) or the Tengu(japanese bird-demons), as a form of psychological warfare. 7:51 The white tiger on the banner represents Byakko(also known as Bai Hu in chinese), the celestial of the western sky(and here his image is held by Algren, someone from the West) and bringer of autumn(and Algren showed up in the autumn season). Katsumoto interpreted this as a sign, in addition to admiring Algren's ferocity, determination and spirit(akin to that of an injured tiger).
I spent two years in Sasebo, Japan, while in the Navy and it is a beautiful and fascinating place, with a rich history, as well as very interesting customs and traditions. Not to mention the Japanese people. They are a people I find that I have much respect for. I would go back to Japan in a heartbeat.
The character Ujio has no problem. He lives according to the samurai principles. He can't respect Nathan in advance. Nathan had to earn it. If I were to go to war, I would want someone like Ujio at my side - loyal, determined and relentless. Some samurai films for you: - The Seven Samurai (1954) - Shogun's Samurai (1978) - 13 Assassins (2010)
Ujio might be my favorite character in the film. After getting shot in the chest, he refuses help standing up and just spits blood onto the ground. I'll never get that moment out of my head.
This movie is such a masterpiece. It doesn’t depict Tom Cruise’s character as the “white saviour” but as a broken man that finds peace in the stillness of the Japanese way. It really captures the essence of “bushido” and how Nathan needed that to grow. The cast is actually Japanese and so much of the interactions happen in the silence and the words unspoken, which is very Japanese and in contrast to the westerner way of talking everything out. It’s a very powerful movie as well as a very delicate one.
🌸 Mid movie katsumoto mentioned that some search their entire lives for the perfect cherries blossom. As he was dying he realized they are all perfect. 🌸
His portrayal of alcohol withdrawal is heartbreaking. I've been through it. You see things and hear things that are very disturbing. But when it's over it's a whole new world.
Katsumoto was the last Samurai in this film, not Algren. Algren's journey was one of redemption and finding peace in his soul through appreciating the Samurai here, but he didn't suddenly become one. Even by the end of the movie he was more about appreciating life, not dying with honor, when he told the young emperor he will tell him how Katsumoto lived rather than his glorious death on the battlefield.
mary, the reporter in the film, in cream suit and hat, american president scene, His name is Tomothy Spall, he came to fame in the 80's in a comedy series called Auf Wiedersehen, Pet , it was bunch of builders went to germany to work, from all parts of the UK cockney, geordie and so on, he has had a wonderful career from comedy to straight acting, he also became an OBE, Officer of the order of the british empire, prensented by the queen in 2000
17:13 Mary he is a boy whose late father was a samurai. He was thinking that he must defend his home and family like his dad would have. Sure by our standards he is a child. But in that moment he stood up for his clan. He showed no fear and did what was necessary. Yes Algren had to come in to save him. But those seconds in which he distracted the ninja, his actions kept that guy from harming his mom and siblings. His father and ancestors in the afterlife would have been proud of him.
If you want another samurai movie, Akira Kurosawa's 1954 "Seven Samurai" is an all-time classic. It's indispensable viewing, one of the greatest movies ever made in the minds of many film critics.
That fight in the rain between Algren and Ujio is one of my favorite parts of the movie. He kept getting back up despite knowing he was outclassed. It showed Courage (a tenet of the Samurai Code) and an Indomitable Spirit. A true warrior. It gained him favor and respect among those that watched. Even from the one who put him down. Great reaction! I saw this in theater when it came out. The visuals and soundtrack are stunning.
The samurai didn't fall on their swords. They cut into the side of their abdomen, pushing the blade until it reached near their bellybutton, twisted it, and cut upwards until it reached their rib cage. If they cut deep enough, they'd cut the abdominal aorta and die quickly, even without an assistant. The assistant would behead them in one strike to the back of the neck. Seppuku is the term used when the ritual is done with an assistant. The wives of samurai would also commit ritual suicide to avoid capture. The ritual was different in that it never had an assistant, and they didn't cut their belly. The woman would sit and tie their legs together so they would remain in a dignified position, then cut their own throat instead of their belly.
The director of The Last Samurai, Edward Zwick also directed Glory, another war film during this time period, starring Matthew Broderick, Morgan Freeman, and Denzel Washington. Hope you get to see it!
I think Blood Diamond is Zwick's best film, but The Siege might be his most interesting one. Glory is fantastic too - Zwick has a tremendous body of work for a director I would suspect most people can't name
The Last Samurai is a motion picture adaption and a blend of two separate but _real_ historical people and events. A Japanese Samurai, Saigo Takamori, who this movie portrays as the character Katsumoto Moritsuga; and a French Soldier, Jules Brunet, who this movie portrays as the character Nathen Algren. Great choice.
This is such a great, wonderful movie. It really shows off the spirit of the Samurai. “I will tell you how he lived!…”. What a line! Really sums up everything you need to know! 😊
It sums it up for a western perspective… It was one of my favorite lines until I started living in Japan.. But after living in Japan for more than 10 years… That line has been complained about.. by several people.. That how he died was much much more significant… The question is not asking about getting shot up by a Gatling gun … But the honor and bravery, and courage in keeping his sense of value, until the last moment. Even though the film is intended to show respect to the Samurai and the period around the end of feudal Japan.. It does not begin to capture the spirit of the Samurai… As for Tom Cruise’s character he could be accepted and respected by the samurai, but would never be accepted AS a Samurai, One does not just become a Samurai… you have to be born into it… Having said that… It is still one of my favorite movies, But, it is a work of literary fiction, and embellishment and romanticization of the period.
20:01 The hair is more important than that. The topknot is symbolic of his samurai status. When he cries out, it’s almost like he’s begging the forgiveness of his ancestors for allowing himself to be publicly dishonoured like that.
I've been waiting for this reaction. Definitely one of Tom Cruise's best movies and introduced a lot of us to Ken Watanabe and Hiroyuki Sanada. Love this movie.
8:18 What you just witnessed is called seppuku, ritual suicide by disembowelment. An extremely painful way to die, requiring the greatest test of willpower and mental fortitude. Samurai were given this option when they were defeated in battle, as it was seen as an act of extreme bravery in the face of dishonour. If they didn't choose seppuku, then that dishonour would carry over to their children and their grandchildren for quite a number of generations, as defeat in battle was seen as a grave dishonour. Now it was known, even then, that most would be unable to complete the act of seppuku due to the extreme agony it would force them to endured so a second, a kaishaku, was chosen to decapitate them at the moment when it was deemed they couldn't continue due to the pain, and that was seen as a great honour. More often than not the kaishaku just went for a simple beheading, but if they wanted to do it with a little flair, then they'd leave a scrap of neck skin intact so that the head would roll over, tearing away at the last moment so that the head would land upright in the samurai's lap, to look like he was sitting down and cradling his own head in his lap (pretty badass, huh?...). Of course that also meant that if the kaishaku did not do it right, did not cut his master's head off quicky and cleanly, then the kaishaku had committed an act of dishonour not only to himself, but to his master and his friend, and to the numerous generations that would follow him, and he himself would be given the option of seppuku to wipe away the stain of dishonour. Lovely thoughts, hmm? 12:18 The outer robe they wear is called a _kimono._ The simple uniform of any practitioner of the Japanese martial arts is called a _gi._ The split skirt he's wearing here has a name for it, though I've since forgotten what name that is.
I have been such a huge fan of Ujio's actor (Hiroyuki Sanada) ever since I first saw this movie! He's just soooo incredibly good. It's my thing with my dad to watch The Last Samurai, Leap Year, and The Dark Knight together. We quote this movie to each other all them time, it never gets old. I also always interpreted the title to refer to all of the samurai and not Algren alone.
I love how the sword’s writing (*I belong to the warrior in which the old ways have joined the new*) was kind of like a message / answer to Algren’s nemesis when it was thrown into his chest. Earlier in the movie he’s mocking Algren about consorting with savages, and Algren’s answer is basically a fulfillment of his earlier promise to kill him + he’s like “na they saved me, not the other way around”
The Samurai had a belief system about fighting and death. To be killed by your enemy maintained your honor, but to be captured by your enemy removed your honor. The act of killing yourself with your own sword was a way that they would avoid being captured and losing their honor. They believed that what happened to you in the afterlife was directly tied to your status at death.
This movie is loosely based on the Satsuma rebellion in 1877. Katsumoto represents Saigo Takamori, the leader of the rebellion and Omura represents Okubo Toshimichi, an extremely influential politician and former Samurai himself. Both men were instrumental in ending the Shogunate and restoring the Emperor to power but after American commodore Matthew Perry showed up on their shores with 4 US warships and basically told the Japanese to either open up trade, something the Shogunate had cut off from the rest of the world(except for the Dutch) or he'd be back with a bunch more ships and make them trade there was a massive push to modernize the country. This modernization resulted in the erosion of many privileges the Samurai had enjoyed for centuries, financially and socially, and led to an unprecedented rise in the power of the merchant class who prior to the Meiji Restoration were considered even lower than the peasant class. Okubo was all for the push to modernize after joining a mission and traveling the world and wanted to put Japan up as a real player in the increasingly globalized world stage while Saigo and many other Samurai were outraged at the loss of power that resulted from it and thus, the rebellion. I'm grossly oversimplifying things here but yeah, it's actually a super interesting period of history and researching it really helps a Gaijin(foreigner) understand much more of the extremely nuanced Japanese culture and history and I strongly recommend looking into it further. It also helps to eliminate much of the romanticization of the Samurai that came about afterwards. Oh, and also just a random side fact, the Samurai NEVER balked at using firearms and, in fact, absolutely loved them ever since the Portuguese first accidentally introduced matchlock firearms to the islands all the way back in the 1500's. Saigo himself only fell back on traditional weapons like bows and swords when his men ran out of ammo. Just another bit of persistent romanticization that still persists to this day.
I love this movie. My replica katana of the one Algren is gifted is by far one of my favorite items in my collection. I’m not the biggest fan of Toms movies sometimes but this, this is his best performance as an actor for me. And knowing that he actually did his own stunts makes it even better. And this movie has an amazing cast altogether, it’s near perfect. Fantastic movie, great reaction!
Tom Cruise spent almost a year filming this and his previous film, Mission Impossible 2. A This was filmed in New Zealand, Mission Impossible 2 was filmed in Australia. He fell in love with both countries and has continued to return each year. He's spoken many times of the camraderie and irreverence of the crew.
I’m not sure if this is a fact, but I like to think that the Japanese officer at the end, bowing and showing his respect is showing how remorseful he is about destroying in a way his ancestry. Basically out with the old man with a new. But he still showed respect along with the other soldiers.
James Clavell's 1975 novel, "Shogun", was made into a TV miniseries, in 1980. I give it my absolute highest recommendation. Toshiro Mifune, Frankie Sakai, Yoko Shimada, Yuki Meguro, and many other acclaimed Japanese actors filled the cast. Richard Chamberlain and John Rhys Davies (Gimli from LOTR, and Sallah, from "Indiana Jones") also star. An absolutely amazing saga, set in the Samurai years in Japan.
The scene when the samurai begin their doomed final charge is one of the greatest scenes ever put to film. The slow-motion start, the light glinting off the sword as Katsumodo holds it forward, the thundering music as they gallop to their destiny ... it's unmatched.
This has one of the most surreal scenes of a fight for those that train and have been in fights. You usually don't register what you did until after because of all that muscle memory and the understanding nature that it isn't about winning, but surviving and become a tool for survival against the opposition. Was awesome to see a director/stunt coordinator understand that mental state and find a way to put it to film (when Tom is surrounded with his two swords and he's 'calming the storm' and coming back down from the adrenaline. Just one of my favorite scenes that ever exists in martial art films. Right up there with the 'square up' moment in the end of Raid 2 (Berandal). Some people just know what to do with those cameras, you know?
I was 33 years old when I first watched this movie. And I sobbed like a baby, at the end. Incredibly emotional. This movie and the *Moulin Rouge* are the only films I've ever cried over.
Love when Mary said she didn't think they would lose at the last battle. The ending is perfect reflection of samurai being such a unique culture. They would gladly give their lives for a cause they believe in with no regrets because they fulfilled their duty with honor.
My brother lived in Japan when this movie came out. He said it was hilarious that they were all walking around a little taller their heads a little higher. With that "That's right, we're Samurai!".....He said it was so cute to watch......
This is my favourite move of all time, I remember watching it with my dad as a young kid and it always reminds me of him. Thanks for posting this Mary and I hope you enjoyed it!
I remember when this was made and couldnt wait to watch it because it was actually made just down the road from me in NZ. The mountain is actually Mount Taranaki rather than mount Fuji because it cost them less to film there and the scenery is so similar to Japan. The training grounds was the local park and cricket grounds in New Plymouth.
Not having to reload is why swords remained in use right up to the 20th century. It's also why highwaymen used to carry one in addition to their pistols (which were effectively useless after one shot each)
19:27 everyone isn’t freaking out because they are worried about the samurai attacking, everyone is freaking out because they have to bow and give way to the samurai.
I was born in California to an American father and Japanese mother. She told me a little of the Samurai, but most I’ve learned from books and film. I have a deep respect for their ways and culture. I would like to recommend a book of old Japan, “Shogun.” It was a mini series on television but the book is much better.
In feudal Japan, your hairstyle was directly tied to your role in society. Cutting off Nobu's top knot was one of the worst ways to disgrace him, and they did it publicly.
Great film selection! Meditation is tough for me too. Emptying your mind comes after simply trying to be detached from your thoughts. Allowing them to happen, observing them, and letting them go. Eventually they dissipate - what you resist persists, what you embrace evaporates. I think I've gotten there once or twice. 😄 This film does romanticize the samurai a bit, in reality they were like Medieval knights - some held to the code of chivalry (or bushido, in the samurai's case) and some were bad apples who took advantage of and oppressed other people, like in any hierarchical society.
there's only really 2 criticisms that you can level at this movies historical accuracy. 1) The Katsumoto that this man was based off of wasn't apart of this era of Japan. 2) and the biggest one. Samurai weren't against using guns/cannons. When the technology arrived in Japan, they embraced it as they embraced the katana as a warriors tool. They used them like any other military would. They weren't dumb and knew they were valuable assets in war. Of course, they still carried the katana, just as U.S. army carried a sabre. but that's honestly it. other than a few minor things, it was a well made movie that paid so much respect to The Way of Bushido. And it wasn't a "white savior" movie either like Dances with Wolves or whatever. Algren isn't a hero, or even really the main protagonist. He was a tool for us viewers to learn and understand Bushido, and the customs of traditional Japanese culture. Katsumoto was the hero, with his death moving the Emperor to find his own voice and wisdom.
Katsumoto Moritsugu is a fictional character likely based on Saigō Takamori (西郷隆盛). Saigō was instrumental for the Meiji Restoration and also leading the Satsuma Rebellion a decade later. He was 49 when he died. Some of the best samurai movies out there are Kagemusha 影武者 (1980) and Ran 乱 (1985), both by Kurosawa Akira (黒澤明), probably the most prolific creator of classic samurai films. He is also responsible for The Seven Samurai 七人の侍 (1954) - which has been considered one of the most influential films of all time, from which Hollywood based the classic Western, The Magnificent Seven (1960), which spawned a further two films, Return of the Seven (1966), and The Guns of the Magnificent Seven (1969). There is also a 2016 remake of The Magnificent Seven. Kurosawa also made The Hidden Fortress 隠し砦の三悪人 (1958), which is one of the inspirations of Star Wars (1977). If you love Ken Watanabe, check out Tampopo タンポポ (1985). It is literally a food trip.
One of the best movies of all time, Samurai are my favourite warriors ever, nothing can compare the the armour and skill they had. They even looked cool🤣
His "Dress" is called "Hakama", that and the "Haori" (jacket) are worn over the "Kimono". As I am building an Complete Samurai Cosplay Kit, (out of discarded gift/credit cards, I've done extensive research. Another great Samurai film is The Seven Samurai.
The scenery in this movie is not in Japan. This was filmed literally in my backyard of Aotearoa, New Zealand. (I'm writing this comment while in view of the mountain that is in this film)
He didn’t fall on his sword. He was performing Seppuku. Ritualistically disemboweling himself followed by decapitation as a sign of mercy. Reserved for Samurai in their code of honour.
Last Samurai holds a special place in my heart. It made an impact on me. It taught me to not fear death and as it was qouted, "To find life in every breath."
Im pretty sure this is actually based on a true story and algrens guy was french in real life. Sabaton has a song about it called shiroyama. Last stand of the samurai
Most of the filming of The Last Samurai, starring Tom Cruise, took place near New Plymouth in Taranaki, North Island New Zealand. A Japanese village was constructed for filming on the hillsides of the Uruti Valley, with Mount Taranaki standing in for 'Mount Fuji'.
This is one of the best movies I have ever seen in my life. So many people dismiss this and Dances with Wolves as “White Savior” movies but they’re actually the opposite. They save Nathan by giving him a life of peace, serenity and purpose. He helps by telling them the enemy strategies but that’s about it. Ken Watanabe should’ve gotten an Oscar for this movie, I cry every time I hear him say “They are all perfect”.😭😭 Not to mention Hans Zimmer gives us one of the most beautiful and underrated scores in film history, I listen to the track “A Way Of Life” during meditations. Also the scene in which he ends the duel with Ujio with a draw by completely clearing out his mind is a real life technique. It’s called Mushin or No Mind, the best way to describe it is that it’s exactly like Ultra Instinct from Dragonball Super. Or like Spider-Man’s Spider Sense, you let your body move on it’s own. I felt it myself when I was training in Kenpo Karate as a teenager, my sensei and his other instructors swore by The Last Samurai and told me to pay attention to that scene specifically.
Awesome movie of arcs and transformations, deeper looks into misunderstandings. Years ago I found something very grounded, a patient tenacity about the Japanese culture that better helped me understand some aspects of my Native American roots and helped me kick some character defects and addictions I was living with. I found many similarities between our cultures that brought me peace and opened me to different ways of thinking and discipline after taking to study and adopting their practices for some time. I'd love to visit Japan and pay some respect someday, if I could travel ine place outside the States, Japan is my destination. Maybe Australia too, always been enamored with the culture.
Samurai who are shamed in battle are accustomed to kill themselves and can be assisted in helping them die. This is one of my top 5 films of all time. Definitely one of Tom's best films.
With all due respect, Mary, I believe that Katsumodo was the last samurai. He lived for the Emperor, even when the nobles and public at large saw him as a rebel, stuck strictly to his code of honor, fought bravely on the battlefield, demonstrated nobility and humility, and died upon his sword with no fear, hesitation, or regrets. With Nathan alive, he can tell stories of Katsumodo's honor and ensure the people know of the man who lived and breathed the Old Ways, despite the rapid industrialization and adoption of Western customs and dress.
Samurai is plural as well as singular so Katsumoto and all of his men were the last Samurai. When Algren was withdrawing from alcohol he was suffering from delerium tremens commonly known as the DTs and can be severe enough to kill the person suffering from withdrawal.
21:21 He was replaying the fight in his mind which let him know that he didn't get all the assailants, thats how he knew there was one guy left. This movie always hits me hard. Yeah, its not exactly historically accurate. Okay its far from historically accurate. But, there was a time where the Samurai did come to an end, and it wasn't pretty. Of course even around this era that the movie takes place, plenty of Samurai have actually adopted using firearms, so it wasn't as if they were strictly adverse to using guns and cannons themselves. But yeah, the cinematography, the attention to detail, the actors, the characters, the musical score is just so amazing. Definitely one of Tom Cruise's best movies. But I do believe the real star of this movie is Ken Wantanabi (Katsumoto), he is very charismatic and honorable. Made him one of my favorite actors for me.
I don't think the director of this film, Ed Zwick gets talked about enough. This is possibly his 3rd best film behind 'Blood Diamond' and 'Glory', and even his 'lesser' films like 'Courage Under Fire' and 'Love And Other Drugs' are well worth a watch.
2003 was an epic year for movies. We got Lord of rhe Rings: Return of the King, Mystic River, Seabiscuit, Master & Commander: Far Side of the World and this one. Thanks for reacting to Samurai.
@@rayvanhorn1534 it had everything. The acting, the pacing, the depiction of war on the sea which is rarely done anymore, and the music. I love that score.
At first when I saw this movie a few years ago I also thouth Nathan was the Last Samurai, but watching it now a few years later, besisdes enjoying it and loving it a lot more, I realised that Katsumoto it's the real last Samurai, or at least that is what I think. This movie is really amaizing, it's on my top 10 favourite movies, and also has one of my favourite movie soundtracks composed by the GOAT Hans Zimmer 🙌 great reaction!
►for early access, bloopers, polls & UNCUT VERSION check ► patreon.com/marycherryofficial
► GAMING CHANNEL: www.youtube.com/@cherry_plays
► follow me on ✰www.twitch.tv/maryycherryy (LIVE STREAMS)
► VLOG channel VARY CHERRY: www.youtube.com/@varycherry
► DISCORD: discord.com/invite/3pxX7QqGW7
► IG: instagram.com/maryycherryy/
► TWEET ME: twitter.com/maryycherryy
FAQ sheet: docs.google.com/document/d/1_FkcwQ0vPAAk53YVyo-ChXc9AuX1pn5gbctrOkX13xA/edit
You would probably love
"Master and Commander (the far side of the world)" Russel Crowe
Or
"Zulu" introducing Michael Caine 😉
The greatest martial arts movie i've ever seen is 'Jet Lee's: Fearless' (2006) hopefully your patrons will vote for it one day
the horses are all mechanical not real
I look at the MaryCherry reactions, it is not a wasted life searching for a perfect one, now I realize...they are all perfect. 🥰
I left 2 comments, both got replies from imposter accounts. I reported them 😉
At the beginning of the movie, Katsumoto dream of a white tiger surrounded by samurais, later when he saw Algren surrounded by samurai defending himself with a spear with the banner of a white tiger attached to it, that's why he look at him intensely!
and he believes highly in destiny and spirituality so he saw this as his dream being a sign and that moment with algren being the reality of that sign
Samurai is plural no reason to say Samurais
@@houseofaction rlly?
Common misconception: Algren was not the last Samurai. Katsumoto and his men were the last Samurai. Algren found peace during his time with them, learning to live with the horror of what he'd done in the name of duty, overcoming the alcoholism that was his only escape from those horrible memories, but he was never Samurai. In the end, Algren was simply the lens through which we viewed the end of the Samurai age in Japan.
Yep I've always thought of the usage of Samurai as plural, as in the end of the era of the Samurai.
Thank you. I came to the comments to say the same thing but you said it better than I could have.
Well said and agree completely.
Tom Cruise as the sole occupant of THE LAST SAMURAI movie poster did absolutely nothing to spread that misconception.
I mean Nathan became an honary Samurai. Maybe not officially but for sure honorary.
This movie is definitely one of Tom Cruise's best films. Visually interesting, great action, a very dramatic story and full of good characters and music
Don't forget the music.
The poem about cherry blossoms is quite hard to fully understand at first watch but it's so damn deep.
Cherry trees bloom for an extremely short amount of time, then all blossoms die suddenly, like us humans. The briefness of their existence means that finding the perfect blossom (so the perfect "way of life") in our short life is not wasted time. Samurai, and Japanese in general, seek to pursue perfection in their whole life, but they also live the struggle to see that perfection as a very rare thing. In the end, Katsumoto finally understands: all blossoms, in their own way, are perfect. Nathan is basically what helps him to come up with this revelation, because he is an imperfect blossom that is actually perfect in his own way.
It's an overall thing that happens throughout all the movie that most people miss, the Japanese society at first sight seems "perfect" but there are few hints that suggest criticism with respect to their rigidity and formalism: for example, the kid finds a more fatherly figure in Nathan rather than his own father - Hirotaro would have never hugged his son because "it is glorious to die in battle", even though the kid is scared to lose his "father", a pretty natural feeling.
It's a beautiful way to show how every culture has strengths and weaknesses and the combination of the best of each cultures create a good balance.
It’s nice to find someone else who recognises the beauty of this message.
🙏 well explained brother.
The Last Samurai is one of those films that evokes such emotions that I can never get through it without shedding some tears. Cruise’s character is loosely based on a French officer named Jules Brunet who was sent to train the Japanese army of the Tokugawa Shogunate. The Shogunate was overthrown and Brunet joined the Shoguns Forces. For a brief time Brunet held the position of Foreign Minister for the small country they formed on a captured island
While Ken Watanabe’s character was based on Saigo Takamori, one of the revolutionary leaders who overthrew the shogunate and established the Imperial Japan.
The character of Omura was based on Omura Masujiro, the founder of Imperial Japanese Army, and Okubo Toshimichi, another revolutionary leader who was a childhood friend of Saigo before having a falling out that led to the conflict in this movie called Satsuma Rebellion.
Much as I loved the "Top Gun" movies, I consider this Cruise's finest work, ever.
I've witnessed hardcore combat veterans, men blooded in battle, break down weeping like brokenhearted kids, at some of the more emotional scenes in this movie. Twenty years onward, and it reduces me to tears. Every. Single. Time.
Honestly the armor dressing scene was 10x better than any love scene they could have done there
Absolutely. Almost everything the Japanese do they do it with grace, reverence and respect.
Katsumoto: "The perfect blossom is a rare thing. You could spend your life looking for one, and it would not be a wasted life."
Katsumoto while dying: "Perfect. They are all perfect." referring to the Blossoms.
Poor Bob, reduced to that old guy. Fought ninjas, soldiers, gave his life for his ward, his only words a last warning: "Algren-San!"
Bob is a legend.
7:08
The Samurai adorned their armors with horns and grinning masks to make themselves appear more demonic to their enemies, resembling the Oni(a yokai/demon known as the japanese ogre) or the Tengu(japanese bird-demons), as a form of psychological warfare.
7:51
The white tiger on the banner represents Byakko(also known as Bai Hu in chinese), the celestial of the western sky(and here his image is held by Algren, someone from the West) and bringer of autumn(and Algren showed up in the autumn season). Katsumoto interpreted this as a sign, in addition to admiring Algren's ferocity, determination and spirit(akin to that of an injured tiger).
The last info is awesome!
I spent two years in Sasebo, Japan, while in the Navy and it is a beautiful and fascinating place, with a rich history, as well as very interesting customs and traditions. Not to mention the Japanese people. They are a people I find that I have much respect for. I would go back to Japan in a heartbeat.
The character Ujio has no problem. He lives according to the samurai principles. He can't respect Nathan in advance. Nathan had to earn it. If I were to go to war, I would want someone like Ujio at my side - loyal, determined and relentless.
Some samurai films for you:
- The Seven Samurai (1954)
- Shogun's Samurai (1978)
- 13 Assassins (2010)
Ujio might be my favorite character in the film. After getting shot in the chest, he refuses help standing up and just spits blood onto the ground. I'll never get that moment out of my head.
@@TheLanceUppercut Ujio is my favourite character as well.
Ujio was a straight up G.
I know it's cliche, but any kurosawa film is awesome for samurai content
BS. Nathen earned respect on the battlefield before hand.
This movie has what may be my favorite soundtrack of all time. It elevates the movie immensely.
Hans Zimmer's Best Score In My Opinion.
try watching interstellar. :)
THE best movie Cruise ever made. The cinematography, the rich story progression, subplots, & dynamic characters, it all was masterful.
This movie is such a masterpiece. It doesn’t depict Tom Cruise’s character as the “white saviour” but as a broken man that finds peace in the stillness of the Japanese way. It really captures the essence of “bushido” and how Nathan needed that to grow. The cast is actually Japanese and so much of the interactions happen in the silence and the words unspoken, which is very Japanese and in contrast to the westerner way of talking everything out. It’s a very powerful movie as well as a very delicate one.
🌸 Mid movie katsumoto mentioned that some search their entire lives for the perfect cherries blossom. As he was dying he realized they are all perfect. 🌸
His portrayal of alcohol withdrawal is heartbreaking. I've been through it. You see things and hear things that are very disturbing. But when it's over it's a whole new world.
Katsumoto was the last Samurai in this film, not Algren. Algren's journey was one of redemption and finding peace in his soul through appreciating the Samurai here, but he didn't suddenly become one. Even by the end of the movie he was more about appreciating life, not dying with honor, when he told the young emperor he will tell him how Katsumoto lived rather than his glorious death on the battlefield.
mary, the reporter in the film, in cream suit and hat, american president scene, His name is Tomothy Spall, he came to fame in the 80's in a comedy series called Auf Wiedersehen, Pet , it was bunch of builders went to germany to work, from all parts of the UK cockney, geordie and so on, he has had a wonderful career from comedy to straight acting, he also became an OBE, Officer of the order of the british empire, prensented by the queen in 2000
17:13 Mary he is a boy whose late father was a samurai. He was thinking that he must defend his home and family like his dad would have. Sure by our standards he is a child. But in that moment he stood up for his clan. He showed no fear and did what was necessary.
Yes Algren had to come in to save him. But those seconds in which he distracted the ninja, his actions kept that guy from harming his mom and siblings. His father and ancestors in the afterlife would have been proud of him.
If you want another samurai movie, Akira Kurosawa's 1954 "Seven Samurai" is an all-time classic. It's indispensable viewing, one of the greatest movies ever made in the minds of many film critics.
But be sure to watch the Criterion Collection edition.
Which was copied by Hollywood in the original and the remake called "The Magnificent Seven". Both good movies
"The Twilight Samurai" was good too. 😉
As well as Yojimbo and Sanjuro!
@@fan-i-amYojimbo should be watched with, just before ..or after, the Bruce Willis movie, Last Man Standing
Seppuku is a bit more complicated than just stabbing yourself with a sword. It's pretty gruesome.
That fight in the rain between Algren and Ujio is one of my favorite parts of the movie. He kept getting back up despite knowing he was outclassed. It showed Courage (a tenet of the Samurai Code) and an Indomitable Spirit. A true warrior. It gained him favor and respect among those that watched. Even from the one who put him down. Great reaction! I saw this in theater when it came out. The visuals and soundtrack are stunning.
The samurai didn't fall on their swords. They cut into the side of their abdomen, pushing the blade until it reached near their bellybutton, twisted it, and cut upwards until it reached their rib cage. If they cut deep enough, they'd cut the abdominal aorta and die quickly, even without an assistant. The assistant would behead them in one strike to the back of the neck.
Seppuku is the term used when the ritual is done with an assistant.
The wives of samurai would also commit ritual suicide to avoid capture. The ritual was different in that it never had an assistant, and they didn't cut their belly. The woman would sit and tie their legs together so they would remain in a dignified position, then cut their own throat instead of their belly.
The director of The Last Samurai, Edward Zwick also directed Glory, another war film during this time period, starring Matthew Broderick, Morgan Freeman, and Denzel Washington. Hope you get to see it!
I think Blood Diamond is Zwick's best film, but The Siege might be his most interesting one. Glory is fantastic too - Zwick has a tremendous body of work for a director I would suspect most people can't name
@@neilbiggs1353 yes hes definitely one of the best directors with almost zero name recognition out there.
The Last Samurai is a motion picture adaption and a blend of two separate but _real_ historical people and events. A Japanese Samurai, Saigo Takamori, who this movie portrays as the character Katsumoto Moritsuga; and a French Soldier, Jules Brunet, who this movie portrays as the character Nathen Algren.
Great choice.
This is such a great, wonderful movie. It really shows off the spirit of the Samurai. “I will tell you how he lived!…”. What a line! Really sums up everything you need to know! 😊
It sums it up for a western perspective…
It was one of my favorite lines until I started living in Japan..
But after living in Japan for more than 10 years…
That line has been complained about.. by several people..
That how he died was much much more significant…
The question is not asking about getting shot up by a Gatling gun …
But the honor and bravery, and courage in keeping his sense of value, until the last moment.
Even though the film is intended to show respect to the Samurai and the period around the end of feudal Japan..
It does not begin to capture the spirit of the Samurai…
As for Tom Cruise’s character he could be accepted and respected by the samurai, but would never be accepted AS a Samurai, One does not just become a Samurai… you have to be born into it…
Having said that…
It is still one of my favorite movies,
But, it is a work of literary fiction, and embellishment and romanticization of the period.
20:01 The hair is more important than that. The topknot is symbolic of his samurai status. When he cries out, it’s almost like he’s begging the forgiveness of his ancestors for allowing himself to be publicly dishonoured like that.
I've been waiting for this reaction. Definitely one of Tom Cruise's best movies and introduced a lot of us to Ken Watanabe and Hiroyuki Sanada. Love this movie.
8:18 What you just witnessed is called seppuku, ritual suicide by disembowelment. An extremely painful way to die, requiring the greatest test of willpower and mental fortitude. Samurai were given this option when they were defeated in battle, as it was seen as an act of extreme bravery in the face of dishonour. If they didn't choose seppuku, then that dishonour would carry over to their children and their grandchildren for quite a number of generations, as defeat in battle was seen as a grave dishonour.
Now it was known, even then, that most would be unable to complete the act of seppuku due to the extreme agony it would force them to endured so a second, a kaishaku, was chosen to decapitate them at the moment when it was deemed they couldn't continue due to the pain, and that was seen as a great honour. More often than not the kaishaku just went for a simple beheading, but if they wanted to do it with a little flair, then they'd leave a scrap of neck skin intact so that the head would roll over, tearing away at the last moment so that the head would land upright in the samurai's lap, to look like he was sitting down and cradling his own head in his lap (pretty badass, huh?...). Of course that also meant that if the kaishaku did not do it right, did not cut his master's head off quicky and cleanly, then the kaishaku had committed an act of dishonour not only to himself, but to his master and his friend, and to the numerous generations that would follow him, and he himself would be given the option of seppuku to wipe away the stain of dishonour.
Lovely thoughts, hmm?
12:18 The outer robe they wear is called a _kimono._ The simple uniform of any practitioner of the Japanese martial arts is called a _gi._ The split skirt he's wearing here has a name for it, though I've since forgotten what name that is.
I have been such a huge fan of Ujio's actor (Hiroyuki Sanada) ever since I first saw this movie! He's just soooo incredibly good. It's my thing with my dad to watch The Last Samurai, Leap Year, and The Dark Knight together. We quote this movie to each other all them time, it never gets old. I also always interpreted the title to refer to all of the samurai and not Algren alone.
I always assumed it was katsumoto.
I love how the sword’s writing (*I belong to the warrior in which the old ways have joined the new*) was kind of like a message / answer to Algren’s nemesis when it was thrown into his chest.
Earlier in the movie he’s mocking Algren about consorting with savages, and Algren’s answer is basically a fulfillment of his earlier promise to kill him + he’s like “na they saved me, not the other way around”
It's funny how everyone thinks that Tom Cruis is the last samurai,but it's actually not,it's katsumoto is the last samurai.
The Samurai had a belief system about fighting and death. To be killed by your enemy maintained your honor, but to be captured by your enemy removed your honor. The act of killing yourself with your own sword was a way that they would avoid being captured and losing their honor. They believed that what happened to you in the afterlife was directly tied to your status at death.
The breathlessness of Algren at the end when he sees Taka is the same thing I felt in that moment.
My favorite line was “Custer says we’re going to the little big horn. I said aye, what’s this we? It’s a walking ticket for me”
When youtubers need to censor 150 year old weapons, you know something is very messed up.
This movie is loosely based on the Satsuma rebellion in 1877. Katsumoto represents Saigo Takamori, the leader of the rebellion and Omura represents Okubo Toshimichi, an extremely influential politician and former Samurai himself. Both men were instrumental in ending the Shogunate and restoring the Emperor to power but after American commodore Matthew Perry showed up on their shores with 4 US warships and basically told the Japanese to either open up trade, something the Shogunate had cut off from the rest of the world(except for the Dutch) or he'd be back with a bunch more ships and make them trade there was a massive push to modernize the country. This modernization resulted in the erosion of many privileges the Samurai had enjoyed for centuries, financially and socially, and led to an unprecedented rise in the power of the merchant class who prior to the Meiji Restoration were considered even lower than the peasant class. Okubo was all for the push to modernize after joining a mission and traveling the world and wanted to put Japan up as a real player in the increasingly globalized world stage while Saigo and many other Samurai were outraged at the loss of power that resulted from it and thus, the rebellion.
I'm grossly oversimplifying things here but yeah, it's actually a super interesting period of history and researching it really helps a Gaijin(foreigner) understand much more of the extremely nuanced Japanese culture and history and I strongly recommend looking into it further. It also helps to eliminate much of the romanticization of the Samurai that came about afterwards. Oh, and also just a random side fact, the Samurai NEVER balked at using firearms and, in fact, absolutely loved them ever since the Portuguese first accidentally introduced matchlock firearms to the islands all the way back in the 1500's. Saigo himself only fell back on traditional weapons like bows and swords when his men ran out of ammo. Just another bit of persistent romanticization that still persists to this day.
Yes, this movie is a Westerner's Orientalist view of Japan, which is to say, it's more fantasy than history.
I love this movie. My replica katana of the one Algren is gifted is by far one of my favorite items in my collection. I’m not the biggest fan of Toms movies sometimes but this, this is his best performance as an actor for me. And knowing that he actually did his own stunts makes it even better. And this movie has an amazing cast altogether, it’s near perfect. Fantastic movie, great reaction!
Tom Cruise spent almost a year filming this and his previous film, Mission Impossible 2. A This was filmed in New Zealand, Mission Impossible 2 was filmed in Australia. He fell in love with both countries and has continued to return each year. He's spoken many times of the camraderie and irreverence of the crew.
I’m not sure if this is a fact, but I like to think that the Japanese officer at the end, bowing and showing his respect is showing how remorseful he is about destroying in a way his ancestry.
Basically out with the old man with a new. But he still showed respect along with the other soldiers.
James Clavell's 1975 novel, "Shogun", was made into a TV miniseries, in 1980. I give it my absolute highest recommendation. Toshiro Mifune, Frankie Sakai, Yoko Shimada, Yuki Meguro, and many other acclaimed Japanese actors filled the cast. Richard Chamberlain and John Rhys Davies (Gimli from LOTR, and Sallah, from "Indiana Jones") also star. An absolutely amazing saga, set in the Samurai years in Japan.
There is actually a new Shogun series coming out next year
@@wilboehmer5620 really? I had no idea! I read the novel about every two years.
The new show also is based on the novel. You will recognize some actors from this movie in the show. There are trailers on UA-cam.
Mr. Sanada is also going to be in the Shogun series
@@jasongarcia1886 as Toranaga, no less! An inspired choice.
The samurai sword is one of the most elegantly made weapons of all time, to make one by hand takes years just to do it right.
The scene when the samurai begin their doomed final charge is one of the greatest scenes ever put to film. The slow-motion start, the light glinting off the sword as Katsumodo holds it forward, the thundering music as they gallop to their destiny ... it's unmatched.
35:30 Exactly, he was drinking because of his PTSD, and they made him go cold turkey, facing two demons at once
This has one of the most surreal scenes of a fight for those that train and have been in fights. You usually don't register what you did until after because of all that muscle memory and the understanding nature that it isn't about winning, but surviving and become a tool for survival against the opposition. Was awesome to see a director/stunt coordinator understand that mental state and find a way to put it to film (when Tom is surrounded with his two swords and he's 'calming the storm' and coming back down from the adrenaline. Just one of my favorite scenes that ever exists in martial art films. Right up there with the 'square up' moment in the end of Raid 2 (Berandal).
Some people just know what to do with those cameras, you know?
I was 33 years old when I first watched this movie. And I sobbed like a baby, at the end. Incredibly emotional.
This movie and the *Moulin Rouge* are the only films I've ever cried over.
Love when Mary said she didn't think they would lose at the last battle. The ending is perfect reflection of samurai being such a unique culture. They would gladly give their lives for a cause they believe in with no regrets because they fulfilled their duty with honor.
My brother lived in Japan when this movie came out. He said it was hilarious that they were all walking around a little taller their heads a little higher. With that "That's right, we're Samurai!".....He said it was so cute to watch......
If you enjoyed this, 'Dances With Wolves' with Kevin Costner is a great movie, exploring a similar theme, but with Native Americans.
This is my favourite move of all time, I remember watching it with my dad as a young kid and it always reminds me of him. Thanks for posting this Mary and I hope you enjoyed it!
My absolute favorite Tom Cruise movie. The chemistry between Cruise and Watanabe is just so good. An all around masterpiece in every way.
Meditation is not the absence of thoughts, it is to be one with your present and just exist within it so that those thoughts do not harm you.
Nathan is NOT the last Samurai. The Samurai refers to the Order which passed away with Katsumoto's death.
I remember when this was made and couldnt wait to watch it because it was actually made just down the road from me in NZ. The mountain is actually Mount Taranaki rather than mount Fuji because it cost them less to film there and the scenery is so similar to Japan. The training grounds was the local park and cricket grounds in New Plymouth.
King Leonidas: Tonight we dine in Hell.
Katsumoto: That is a good death!
They way Spall delivers that line, "He is samurai."
Cruise trained for 3 years for this role guy is dedicated as hell
For information. It was filmed in New Zealand, but yes Japan is a beautiful country.
Not having to reload is why swords remained in use right up to the 20th century. It's also why highwaymen used to carry one in addition to their pistols (which were effectively useless after one shot each)
19:27 everyone isn’t freaking out because they are worried about the samurai attacking, everyone is freaking out because they have to bow and give way to the samurai.
I was born in California to an American father and Japanese mother. She told me a little of the Samurai, but most I’ve learned from books and film. I have a deep respect for their ways and culture. I would like to recommend a book of old Japan, “Shogun.” It was a mini series on television but the book is much better.
In feudal Japan, your hairstyle was directly tied to your role in society. Cutting off Nobu's top knot was one of the worst ways to disgrace him, and they did it publicly.
"How did he die?"
"Like a fool leading his people on a cavalry charge into Gatling gun fire."
The Rurouni Kenshin live action movies are also awesome Samurai movies
Yes! Mary needs to watch all 5 them.
Great film selection!
Meditation is tough for me too. Emptying your mind comes after simply trying to be detached from your thoughts. Allowing them to happen, observing them, and letting them go. Eventually they dissipate - what you resist persists, what you embrace evaporates. I think I've gotten there once or twice. 😄
This film does romanticize the samurai a bit, in reality they were like Medieval knights - some held to the code of chivalry (or bushido, in the samurai's case) and some were bad apples who took advantage of and oppressed other people, like in any hierarchical society.
Great movie! My Ninja. But Nathan wasn’t the Last Samurai. Katsumato was the Last Samurai
true
No its referring to the Age of the Samurai ending, with Japan modernizing. Not a specific individual.
@@PeacefulJoint Sht. That actually makes much more sense 🤣
@@pandaman1677 Yeah a lot of people mistake it so no biggie
No Nathan was. That's why he offers to kill himself for the Emperor.
there's only really 2 criticisms that you can level at this movies historical accuracy. 1) The Katsumoto that this man was based off of wasn't apart of this era of Japan. 2) and the biggest one. Samurai weren't against using guns/cannons. When the technology arrived in Japan, they embraced it as they embraced the katana as a warriors tool. They used them like any other military would. They weren't dumb and knew they were valuable assets in war. Of course, they still carried the katana, just as U.S. army carried a sabre.
but that's honestly it. other than a few minor things, it was a well made movie that paid so much respect to The Way of Bushido. And it wasn't a "white savior" movie either like Dances with Wolves or whatever. Algren isn't a hero, or even really the main protagonist. He was a tool for us viewers to learn and understand Bushido, and the customs of traditional Japanese culture. Katsumoto was the hero, with his death moving the Emperor to find his own voice and wisdom.
Katsumoto Moritsugu is a fictional character likely based on Saigō Takamori (西郷隆盛). Saigō was instrumental for the Meiji Restoration and also leading the Satsuma Rebellion a decade later. He was 49 when he died.
Some of the best samurai movies out there are Kagemusha 影武者 (1980) and Ran 乱 (1985), both by Kurosawa Akira (黒澤明), probably the most prolific creator of classic samurai films. He is also responsible for The Seven Samurai 七人の侍 (1954) - which has been considered one of the most influential films of all time, from which Hollywood based the classic Western, The Magnificent Seven (1960), which spawned a further two films, Return of the Seven (1966), and The Guns of the Magnificent Seven (1969). There is also a 2016 remake of The Magnificent Seven. Kurosawa also made The Hidden Fortress 隠し砦の三悪人 (1958), which is one of the inspirations of Star Wars (1977).
If you love Ken Watanabe, check out Tampopo タンポポ (1985). It is literally a food trip.
30:31, Nathan is not The Last Samurai, he helped the last Samurai end his life. Nathan bared witness to the Samurai's last days
Sorry for being so rude.
One of the best movies of all time, Samurai are my favourite warriors ever, nothing can compare the the armour and skill they had. They even looked cool🤣
"They are all perfect." The ending to his poem. Makes me cry like a little bitch everytime.
I always thought this one as "the international Dances with Wolves". They are both two of the best pics ever.
His "Dress" is called "Hakama", that and the "Haori" (jacket) are worn over the "Kimono". As I am building an Complete Samurai Cosplay Kit, (out of discarded gift/credit cards, I've done extensive research.
Another great Samurai film is The Seven Samurai.
The scenery in this movie is not in Japan. This was filmed literally in my backyard of Aotearoa, New Zealand. (I'm writing this comment while in view of the mountain that is in this film)
He didn’t fall on his sword. He was performing Seppuku. Ritualistically disemboweling himself followed by decapitation as a sign of mercy. Reserved for Samurai in their code of honour.
IMO! THIS IS ONE OF THE GREATEST FILMS EVER MADE! Thanks for reacting to it, Marry Cherry! A++++
Last Samurai holds a special place in my heart. It made an impact on me. It taught me to not fear death and as it was qouted, "To find life in every breath."
Im pretty sure this is actually based on a true story and algrens guy was french in real life. Sabaton has a song about it called shiroyama. Last stand of the samurai
Mary, to clarify the location for you this was filmed in New Zealand, not Japan.
One of my favorites. Perfect performances of character evolution, deeply moving scores and such thought provoking dialogue. Tear shed every time.
Omg I can’t believe it. This movie is the only movie that makes me cry every time I watch it
Love the reaction but my only critic is (30:45) Nathan is NOT the Last Samurai those who died in the final battle were. Old ways vs the new.
Most of the filming of The Last Samurai, starring Tom Cruise, took place near New Plymouth in Taranaki, North Island New Zealand. A Japanese village was constructed for filming on the hillsides of the Uruti Valley, with Mount Taranaki standing in for 'Mount Fuji'.
This is one of the best movies I have ever seen in my life. So many people dismiss this and Dances with Wolves as “White Savior” movies but they’re actually the opposite. They save Nathan by giving him a life of peace, serenity and purpose. He helps by telling them the enemy strategies but that’s about it. Ken Watanabe should’ve gotten an Oscar for this movie, I cry every time I hear him say “They are all perfect”.😭😭 Not to mention Hans Zimmer gives us one of the most beautiful and underrated scores in film history, I listen to the track “A Way Of Life” during meditations.
Also the scene in which he ends the duel with Ujio with a draw by completely clearing out his mind is a real life technique. It’s called Mushin or No Mind, the best way to describe it is that it’s exactly like Ultra Instinct from Dragonball Super. Or like Spider-Man’s Spider Sense, you let your body move on it’s own. I felt it myself when I was training in Kenpo Karate as a teenager, my sensei and his other instructors swore by The Last Samurai and told me to pay attention to that scene specifically.
Yes! Mushin was what we were taught in Aikido.
@@JohnWelsh-oz3jz it’s so freaking hard to even tap into.
Awesome movie of arcs and transformations, deeper looks into misunderstandings. Years ago I found something very grounded, a patient tenacity about the Japanese culture that better helped me understand some aspects of my Native American roots and helped me kick some character defects and addictions I was living with. I found many similarities between our cultures that brought me peace and opened me to different ways of thinking and discipline after taking to study and adopting their practices for some time. I'd love to visit Japan and pay some respect someday, if I could travel ine place outside the States, Japan is my destination. Maybe Australia too, always been enamored with the culture.
Samurai who are shamed in battle are accustomed to kill themselves and can be assisted in helping them die. This is one of my top 5 films of all time. Definitely one of Tom's best films.
With all due respect, Mary, I believe that Katsumodo was the last samurai. He lived for the Emperor, even when the nobles and public at large saw him as a rebel, stuck strictly to his code of honor, fought bravely on the battlefield, demonstrated nobility and humility, and died upon his sword with no fear, hesitation, or regrets. With Nathan alive, he can tell stories of Katsumodo's honor and ensure the people know of the man who lived and breathed the Old Ways, despite the rapid industrialization and adoption of Western customs and dress.
Samurai is plural as well as singular so Katsumoto and all of his men were the last Samurai.
When Algren was withdrawing from alcohol he was suffering from delerium tremens commonly known as the DTs and can be severe enough to kill the person suffering from withdrawal.
The guy that teaches Tom the way of the sword in this was also in 47 Ronin with Keanu Reeves and with him again in John Wick 3
21:21 He was replaying the fight in his mind which let him know that he didn't get all the assailants, thats how he knew there was one guy left.
This movie always hits me hard. Yeah, its not exactly historically accurate. Okay its far from historically accurate. But, there was a time where the Samurai did come to an end, and it wasn't pretty. Of course even around this era that the movie takes place, plenty of Samurai have actually adopted using firearms, so it wasn't as if they were strictly adverse to using guns and cannons themselves.
But yeah, the cinematography, the attention to detail, the actors, the characters, the musical score is just so amazing. Definitely one of Tom Cruise's best movies. But I do believe the real star of this movie is Ken Wantanabi (Katsumoto), he is very charismatic and honorable. Made him one of my favorite actors for me.
The draw is the biggest honor algren could give anyone. It shows his instructors skill and reputation , and he does win respect for himself.
20 years later and I still tear up with this movie, maybe it has to do with it being my all time favorite movie ever lol.
I don't think the director of this film, Ed Zwick gets talked about enough. This is possibly his 3rd best film behind 'Blood Diamond' and 'Glory', and even his 'lesser' films like 'Courage Under Fire' and 'Love And Other Drugs' are well worth a watch.
2003 was an epic year for movies. We got Lord of rhe Rings: Return of the King, Mystic River, Seabiscuit, Master & Commander: Far Side of the World and this one. Thanks for reacting to Samurai.
"Master & Commander"--fantastic film
@@rayvanhorn1534 it had everything. The acting, the pacing, the depiction of war on the sea which is rarely done anymore, and the music. I love that score.
At first when I saw this movie a few years ago I also thouth Nathan was the Last Samurai, but watching it now a few years later, besisdes enjoying it and loving it a lot more, I realised that Katsumoto it's the real last Samurai, or at least that is what I think. This movie is really amaizing, it's on my top 10 favourite movies, and also has one of my favourite movie soundtracks composed by the GOAT Hans Zimmer 🙌 great reaction!
The 'Last Samurai' is not Nathan ( Tom Cruise) It's Katsumoto and his people. Samurai is also plural.
Bobs death hit because Bobs job wasn't to make sure Algren escapes, but to protect Algren from people who might want to hurt him. Which he did.
Bob is the samurai you called old.
"When I try to meditate ..." Don't try, do!
".. I think of everything" Then do it longer. Don't stop.