The Last Samurai

2003 • 154 minutes

About this movie

Set in Japan during the 1870s, THE LAST SAMURAI tells the story of Capt. Nathan Algren (TOM CRUISE), a respected American military officer hired by the Emperor of Japan to train the country's first army in the art of modern warfare. As the Emperor attempts to eradicate the ancient Imperial Samurai warriors in preparation for more Westernized and trade-friendly government policies, Algren finds himself unexpectedly impressed and influenced by his encounters with the Samurai, which places him at the center of a struggle between two eras and two worlds, with only his own sense of honor to guide him. MPAA Rating: R (c) 2003 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Ratings and reviews

I had seen this before, but in a setting where the acoustics made hearing the audio too difficult to understand some of the subtleties of the film. This time, on Google Play, my home audio was the perfect setting to really pick up on the deep meaning in the dialogue. You really get the feeling of what Imperial Japan must have been like as well as the Samurai culture. Tom Cruise plays an inspiring and not insipid protagonist. His friend Katsumoto also performs extremely well.

Not sure why so many people just violently despise this man. Perhaps it's the "thing to do" or something. I can't see any other reason for it. His acting and on-screen intensity is unparalleled by any other actor imo. He has provided us with a library of excellent films that we have all enjoyed throughout many years. His talent and intensity are what make the movies he stars in. Tom Cruise dives deeply and wholly into his roles, the emotion always clearly visible, and it is yet again apparent in this incredible film. His youthful energy and athleticism add to his believability in this role as well. I can't conceive of a single speck of advice for Tom Cruise, that could possible make his performance any better than it was. Amazing actor. Made me want to live there, deep in the mountains, dedicated to a life of meaningful discipline. Loved the movie. Loved the scenery. Loved the casting. And Ken Watanabe is just the best possible casting of that character. He is superb.

It's a film that has changed me inside and out.I am now going to find my sense of honor to fulfill my destiny.may God speed my venture to JAPAN to become a true warrior in this modern age.please pray for me...im very spiritual,determined.I know I can do it .It's in me this movie is eloquent,true,profound powerful and monumentally inspirational..agonizingly lovely.amen thank you peace and love.