Review of Seven Samurai (1954) by Wes M — 07 Aug 2012

"This is the nature of war. By protecting others, you save yourselves." There's a reason this has a 100% on RT. It is also known throughout the land as Kurosawa's magnum opus (although I suspect I'll like HIgh And Low even more).

I tried, tried, and tried to not have this be my first Kurosawa, but then again, how do you end Samurai July and not watch this movie last?! It was a requirement haha. I had seen the anime based off the film, Samurai 7 several years prior, and that was also amazing.

Believe it or not, the anime actually nails all 7 characters with impeccable accuracy, and several of the main plotlines too. I know I've said this before, but it's worth saying again and again: action movies with great stories and writing (and in this case, characters) are such a rarity, that when all of these things do fall into place, you are awestruck.

I remember at least 2 or three times saying "wow, this is stunning." Not only was it my first Kurosawa, but also my first Mifune, and yes, he is as good as everyone claims. O, and don't worry bout the runtime.

I mean, yea, it's the longest movie I've ever seen, but with such engaging characters and a hopeless scenario, time flies. Suddenly, you've sat in front of your tv for 3.5 hours!