- Sensibility: Some of the acts of desperation to save the family are hard to justify given the wide breadth of unexplored options, but otherwise, in a culture focused on honor, this film proceeds rather sensibly. A confusing transition from claims of a grandfather's accumulating wealth to an unforgiving poverty rendering him unable to help his family is also a bit odd.
- Cinematography: Contains some of the most amazing black and white visuals I've ever seen. Sound design and score are incredible, lighting is amazing, and editing, even given the film was made in the 60s, is near flawless even by today's standards.
- Energy: Starts off very hot, and then has a long, dialogue heavy, narrative driven lull. However, this lull is well worth the wait for the explosive unforgettable ending.
- Narrative: The film deals with simple themes, honor and tradition, but in its execution extends to address historicity, poverty, and sacrifice. Only serious weakness is that a third duel that is addressed in dialogue goes unshown.
- T-Points: The film received five bonus points: one for the first shot of Kingo, an opening Harakiri, a shot of Tsugumo begging his grandchild to beat a fever, one for the entire duel sequence with Omodara through the graveyard and bamboo forest and open field, and one for the entire ending fight sequence.
Absolutely breathtaking film in black and white. How can this film have more striking colors in black and white than many modern full-color productions? Even Mother Nature did her part,
with incredible wind blowing through and making scenes and shots unforgettable.
Number of Watches: 1
