The Last Samurai (Widescreen Edition)

Rating:
Summary: intriguing life
Review: I first caught the last half-hour or so and it hit me hard. I had to watch the whole thing. It wasn't about who was in the film but more of about a different culture, a different life that not many people know about. It had me from the start till the end. It made me realize that sometimes things have to change but one cannot give up their past because it defines who they are. All the actors did a great job in my opinion. Not one stood out as the dominant figure. I have since watched this about 8 or 9 times and will definitely watch it again and again.

Rating:
Summary: Epic movie in the traditions of "Braveheart"
Review: Wow, what a movie! First of all, the story line is so intersting. It is around 1876 and Japan is on course to introduce western lifestyle in the country. However, the Samurais, the traditional Japanese warriors they do not want to except this novice. Thus emperor of Japan confront them military. In order to train the Japanese military the US army captain (portrayed by Tom Cruise) is invited. During one of the confrontations he is taken as a prisoner by Samurais. He spends in Samurai village several month. He studies their lifestyle, their traditions and realizes that he was on the wrong side of the battlefield. Thus he decides to stand next to the Samurais and fight with them for their freedom.
This is an epic movie. It probably can be compared to "Braveheart". Tom Cruise is brilliant, his acting is amazing. This is must have for movie lovers. I still do not believe that Oscar committee prefered "The Lord of the Rings" to "The Last Samurai". This is really dissapointing.