And so, the time of the samurai had come to an end. Nations, like men, it is sometimes said, have their own destiny. As for the American captain, he was never heard of again. Some say he died from his wounds, others that he returned to his country. But I like to think he finally found that little bit of peace that we all seek, and that only a few achieve.


Japan 1878, Nathan Algren (Tom Cruise), a veteran of the American Civil War and the repressions against the Indians, is tasked by an emissary of the Japanese government with training the troops of the newly formed army of the rising sun to fight the rebellion of the daymo Katsumoto Sangi (Ken Watanabe) against the central power. For 9 years, Emperor Mutsuhito has been on the throne, assisted by his advisors he has inaugurated a period of great change in which the country, to avoid being subdued by European powers, seeks to become strong economically and militarily.


To this end, the expertise of the best Western technicians is utilized: jurists, engineers, architects, etc., are hired to contribute to the country's growth, but the reforms lead to revolts by the warrior caste of the samurai, holders of the traditional Japanese spirit, accusing the government of wanting to sell the nation to Westerners. In this context of strong instability, Nathan is forced to move the troops against Katsumoto's samurai without them being sufficiently trained, suffering a heavy defeat in a spectacular battle in the forest where, thanks to his courage and skill demonstrated, he is spared by the enemy commander and taken prisoner.


Katsumoto, in fact, does not think like the other samurai leaders, he wishes to know his enemy to learn the roots of a powerful and conquest-desiring civilization. In captivity in a mountain village, Algren becomes fascinated by the culture of the samurai, founded on the bushido code of honor where the values of courage, discipline, and self-control dominate, and he establishes a strong bond with Katsumoto, who does not show a thirst for power, considering his rebellion in the service of the Emperor, his pupil.

In the final battle, Algren sides with the samurai, but the old way of the sword will inevitably be supplanted by the inhuman efficiency and technological superiority of an industrial army.


The Last Samurai is an epic and compelling story, telling in a highly romanticized way the events that occurred in a crucial period for the formation of modern Japan. However, director Edward Zwick's intent is not to adhere literally to historiographical accounts. His aim is to exalt the value of these ancient warriors while simultaneously showing a pre-industrial worldview, a slice of life where respect for nature reigns, harmony with living beings, the strength and cohesion of a rural and hierarchical community... a reality that disappeared under the impetus of technological and industrial advancement.


A strong point of the work is the majestic soundtrack by Hans Zimmer (inexplicably underrated at the 2004 Oscars) where the spirit of traditional Japan comes alive... the viewer can only thank and immerse themselves in the engaging sensorial, emotional experience.



Rating 9/10

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