Recently I had the good fortune to see the new movie “The Last Samurai.” I give it high praise on many points! First, if you’re worried about Tom Cruise ruining the move as an out of place American actor in a Japanese movie, don’t. Tom’s part is easily blended into the movie as a whole as there are other actors who draw you into their characters. Also, the movie is as much about a period of time in Japanese history as about Cruise’s character.

There were plenty of Japanese warriors to make any martial artist feel right at home and their costumes, or should I say, armor, was authentic looking in design. There were a few times (one with slow motion) where any karateka will get pulled right into the screen thinking, “I’m there, I’m in his head!” Awesome!

It was not as gory as you might think it should be but there was no need for blood and guts to get the point across.

Indeed a well put together movie! Don’t miss it! I give it a big OSU!