The samurai genre has been a staple in Japanese cinema for decades. From classic films like Seven Samurai to recent hits like Rurouni Kenshin, samurai movies have always been popular among fans of epic sword fights and honorable warriors. In the 2010s, we saw a resurgence of the genre with several films that stood out for their innovative storytelling and stunning visuals. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the best samurai movies of the 2010s.
1. Blade of the Immortal (2017)
Blade of the Immortal, directed by Takashi Miike, is a live-action adaptation of the popular manga series by Hiroaki Samura. The film follows Manji, a samurai who is cursed with immortality after killing 100 innocent people. He becomes a bodyguard for a young girl named Rin, who seeks revenge against a group of swordsmen who killed her family. The film features some of the most intense and brutal sword fights in recent memory, and Miike’s direction is expertly executed.
2. 13 Assassins (2010)
Directed by Takashi Miike, 13 Assassins is a remake of a classic 1963 film of the same name. The film tells the story of a group of samurai who are hired to assassinate a cruel and sadistic lord. The final battle sequence, which takes place in a small village, is one of the most epic and intense moments in samurai movie history. The film’s attention to detail and historical accuracy make it a must-watch for fans of the genre.
3. The Twilight Samurai (2012)
The Twilight Samurai, directed by Yoji Yamada, tells the story of a low-ranking samurai named Iguchi Seibei. Seibei is a widower who struggles to support his two young daughters and elderly mother. When he is asked to duel with a more skilled samurai, he must decide whether to risk his life for honor or live to take care of his family. The film is a beautiful and poignant exploration of the samurai code and the struggles of everyday life.
4. Sword of the Stranger (2007)
Although technically released in 2007, Sword of the Stranger is one of the best samurai movies of the 2010s. The film tells the story of a nameless swordsman who becomes embroiled in a conflict between a group of Chinese warriors and a Japanese lord. The film’s stunning animation and choreography make it a standout among animated samurai movies.
5. Harakiri: Death of a Samurai (2011)
Harakiri: Death of a Samurai, directed by Takashi Miike, is a remake of a classic samurai film from 1962. The film tells the story of a ronin who asks to commit harakiri (ritual suicide) in the courtyard of a powerful samurai lord. The lord offers him a chance to avoid death by performing a different task. The film’s stunning cinematography and powerful performances make it one of the most moving samurai movies of recent years.
Conclusion
The samurai genre has continued to thrive in the 2010s with several standout films that have captured the hearts of fans around the world. From intense sword fights to poignant explorations of samurai code and honor, these films have something for everyone. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the genre or a newcomer looking for a great starting point, these five films are a must-watch.
FAQ
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is a samurai? | A samurai was a member of the warrior class in feudal Japan who adhered to a strict code of ethics known as bushido. |
| What is the bushido code? | The bushido code is a set of ethical principles that samurai were expected to follow, including loyalty, honor, and self-discipline. |
| What are some other classic samurai movies? | Some other classic samurai movies include Seven Samurai, Yojimbo, and Sanjuro, all directed by Akira Kurosawa. |
| Are there any upcoming samurai movies? | Yes, there are several upcoming samurai movies, including The Swordsman, which is set to release in 2020. |
| What makes a good samurai movie? | A good samurai movie should have intense sword fights, strong characters, and explore the themes of bushido and honor. |