This movie was particularly enjoyable. It was in the vein of "Dances with wolves" about a US civil war captain that is remorseful about his past fighting with indian tribes. Honour is the theme.
He recieved the Medal of Honour for his bravery, but because of his concience, got a job hawking rifles like a side show attraction. He attempts to quash his demons by escaping into the bottle.
He gets hired on by the Japanese emperor to train and equip his people to suppress a rebellion by samurai.
He ends up in battle with his ill prepared troops against the samurai. He fights ferociously despite losing. He is captured by the samurai and this becomes the central point of the movie.
This movie, feels quite Japanese, but with western touches. It never gets over the top or stereotypical.
The 2:40 min or so goes by quickly, as it hold your attention with fine character performances all around. There are some violent and large battle scenes, not far removed from Braveheart. There are similar tactics used, like flanking and last minute deception.
I think it portrays 1877 Japan with dignity, and a high degree of realism. I think this movie will play well in Japan. I think Akira Kurosawa would have enjoyed this one.
I think this is an excellent epic, and two thumbs up!
