Review of The Hidden Blade (2004) by Samurai J — 16 Sep 2006

[font=Times New Roman][size=4]This was not the kind of film that I was expecting. I expected a high action samurai action film, but what I got was more of a slow adventure drama with a love story lingering in the background. Having said that, this is a good film that I enjoyed very much. The story is interesting and includes some of Japan?s unique feudal history. The time when the highly respected and traditional samurai had to start facing and changing in a world of firearms and commerce. That aspect of history plays heavily in this story as our main character has to cope with the changes while still staying true to his deep traditional training and views.[/size][/font].

[font=Times New Roman][size=4]The effects, most of which are the sets and costumes, are great. The look and feel of feudal Japan abound in this movie. The soundtrack is good. It never gets in the way of the film?s action and it enhances the emotions of the movie. The acting is not too bad. Some of the supporting cast is so-so, but the main characters are well acted. It?s not an action packed samurai fight fest. We don?t get an actual samurai duel until the very end, but it is a good one. This is a worthy movie that is very much worth a look.[/size][/font].