After Rashomon (6/10) this is the second classic japanese samurai-period flick I've checked out. It has a little less going for it: lacking Rashomon's interesting premise and more effective humour. Otherwise it's quite similar: melodramatic stagey dramatics with unconvincing action, damsels-in-distress, plenty of tasteful forest shots and a compelling animalistic Mifune in the main role.
Samurai 1 is quite watchable, tho' some characters have confusing unrelateable logic. The period production was well done, however the fighting scenes are clumsily choreographed (straight out of the theatre). I appreciated the clear crystal-like singing from the Akemi character, the spiritual chanting of Osugi and Kabuki theater. All very short scenes, the film would've benefitted from a little more of this direction.
Overall not quite worth watching, neither is it a bad film. I'm not convinced I'm into it enough to check out the rest of the trilogy. Next jap classic will likely be another Kurosawa. Hoping to find one that rates significantly above average!
Samurai 1 is quite watchable, tho' some characters have confusing unrelateable logic. The period production was well done, however the fighting scenes are clumsily choreographed (straight out of the theatre). I appreciated the clear crystal-like singing from the Akemi character, the spiritual chanting of Osugi and Kabuki theater. All very short scenes, the film would've benefitted from a little more of this direction.
Overall not quite worth watching, neither is it a bad film. I'm not convinced I'm into it enough to check out the rest of the trilogy. Next jap classic will likely be another Kurosawa. Hoping to find one that rates significantly above average!