Last Samurai

[Susan]

Am I the only one who enjoyed this film? I posted my comments on another msg board and got shredded...accused of only liking it because of Tom Cruise in tights...which I resent since
A. i don't think tom cruise is good looking and
B. The looks of any actor never sways my opinion in the film.
Not to mention he isn't in tights.

The costars really drove the film more than the lead actor (which rarely happens in films like this)

Now granted the movie could easily be picked on because of historical accurateness and it's being over sentimental and moralistic at the end or a ripoff of a movie (what movie isn't?) and that an A list actor is thrown in it for ticket sales

. But for entertainment value (and i'm not the type of person who enjoys every movie i see in theaters..in fact i'm very picky) - this was great. I mean I loved the action, the battle sequences were outstanding. I didn't let what critics said make my decision, I sat in that chair for some 2 hours and wasn't bored.

That's saying alot these days.



Post Edited (12-17-03 19:08)

[raj]

I saw it with my Aikido group, and we all enjoyed it, especially my sensei.  Yes it is stylized (dirty American bringing mud into the clean -pure - Samurai's house), but that's the type of movie it is, a man finding redemption in a purer way.  There are some historical inaccuracies (the Samurais in rebellion did use guns) but what movie isn't going to have that?  And even though Tom Cruise is in it  (George C. Scott always seems to lose himself in the role, with Cruise it is always Tom Cruise playing the part of . . .) so what, it isn't that big of a hurdle, his performace is pretty good.

And where did they get tights from?

[The Burgomaster]

Too bad John Belushi is dead . . . he could have done a parody of it on Saturday Night Live.  I think the funniest of Belushi's "Samurai" skits was:

SAMURAI NIGHT FEVER

[Chopper2]

I'd have to agree with you Susan. I though the Last Samurai was awesome. People can easily criticize it for the points you mentioned, but isn't every film directly influenced by other ones? What mainstream film doesn't use a star as a vehicle to sell it!? Even independant films are being forced to that now, in order to be marketable (which defeats the purpose of them being independant). My only complaint about the Last Samurai was that I felt the editing could've been a little more tight in some areas. But other than, great story, good acting, and also I'm a huge Eastern and martial arts nut, so it was cool to see all the old fighting styles in action. Oh and of course: the Japanese babe ;).

[Chopper2]

Yeah, wasn't he sporting like a samurai gi half of it?!...

[Susan]

>>There are some historical inaccuracies (the Samurais in rebellion did use guns<<

Right, I mean I bet there is ALOT of innacuracy. But on that point - I think the film felt more like it was showing a transitional period from hand combat to weapondry that can be used at long distances and how it takes the honor out of death..because one doesn't truly have to be brave to hold a gun and fire.

>>And where did they get tights from?<<

Considering this person claimed they saw the movie that is something to question. Maybe his uniform was a little snug but come on people! When i'm shallow i'll admit it - but don't justify your hating a movie by making that kind of accusation. I have a feeling deep down he wants to be tom cruise. I have a feeling he is Star Wars Kid...lol

>>People can easily criticize it for the points you mentioned, but isn't every film directly influenced by other ones? What mainstream film doesn't use a star as a vehicle to sell it!?<<

There ya go! Few films are geniune ripoffs, alot of films take an idea from another and give their spin on a new story..originality is truly rare, even I do get sick of all the copycats. Remakes and sequels tick me off more but that's another story ;-)
Few films I can honestly say that in the theater I was just simply entertained. I wouldn't consider this 'mindless" entertainment either, i feel some have been overly harsh on this film which is fine - to each his own. But i'd highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys these types of stories, it's not a letdown.

Now...i just need to spend my day off tomorrow seeing return of the king that i'm hearing so much hype about.

[jmc]

I haven't seen it and don't really plan to, but was intrigued by a review I read in the local paper....the critic loved the film and was ready to declare it the best thing he'd seen all year...until the very end where apparently Tom Cruise did something to completely ruin the movie for the critic.  I'm curious as to what that might be.

[Scott]

I've been wanting to see LAST SAMURAI, but I think I'll be waiting till video along with MASTER AND COMMANDER. I think I keep LORD OF THE RINGS as our family film for the holiday season.

Other films I be waiting for later will be:

Once Upon A Time In Mexico
Kill Bill
Texas Chainsaw Massacre
Jeepers Creepers II
Cabin Fever
Elf (maybe)

[Susan]

Last Samurai is worth seeing on the big screen. Master and Commander is the type that can wait for video. It seems like the pick of films has gotten better late in the season. Alot of trailers for upcoming films that look pretty good.

The reaction to the "Hellboy" trailer was interesting, there were alot of grunts and moans...and a hiss

[Scott]

Maybe we'll still get a chance to see LAST SAMURAI on the big screen thanks for the comment Susan. HELLBOY looked good in my opinion. I'm also waiting for ALAMO to come out this spring. The fall/winter season has been much better than the spring/summer.

Isn't that kinda backwards. Guess it dosn't matter as I like to see good film all year.

[Chopper2]

Coming from a person who owns films like "Last House on the Left" and "I Stand Alone," I actually enjoyed Elf. I was in the mood for a fun, mindless movie and I got a fun, mindless movie.

[raj]

Master & Commander did look good on the big screen, I really got the sense that I was on the ship.  Made me glad I wasn't a sailor in those days.