This is an unusual and moving film that deals with the subject of homosexuality amongst the Samurai of the Shinsengumi militia at the end of the Samurai period of the 1860s. The arrival of a young and beautiful trainee Samurai played by newcomer Ryuhei Matsuda sparks off a tale of jealousy and murder where everyone begins to suspect everyone else of the homosexual taboo. Both sides of the subject are explored in depth, Director Nagisa Oshima (best known for the infamous Ai No Corrida) deftly handles both the homophobic and homoerotic themes without resorting to any graphic or cliched images.
The acting is superb throughout, but once again it is the star, Beat Takeshi, who really shines. For once he plays a very likeable and fatherly character, second in command of their unit. Instead of the frightening intensity that he brings to the cops and criminals that he is best known for, here we see a different side of him; his character is caring and kind and with a sense of humour.
Whilst no Samurai film would be complete without some swordplay, this is not an action film. There are some scenes of training with Shinai (bamboo swords) and one brief battle scene against a rival clan. But what there is, is dynamic and fast and concentrates on realism. Even Beat Takeshi gets to wield a sword and acquits himself admirably, once again showing his versatility as an actor. Whilst this film may not be to everyone's taste, Beat Takeshi fans will get a great deal from his performance.
The acting is superb throughout, but once again it is the star, Beat Takeshi, who really shines. For once he plays a very likeable and fatherly character, second in command of their unit. Instead of the frightening intensity that he brings to the cops and criminals that he is best known for, here we see a different side of him; his character is caring and kind and with a sense of humour.
Whilst no Samurai film would be complete without some swordplay, this is not an action film. There are some scenes of training with Shinai (bamboo swords) and one brief battle scene against a rival clan. But what there is, is dynamic and fast and concentrates on realism. Even Beat Takeshi gets to wield a sword and acquits himself admirably, once again showing his versatility as an actor. Whilst this film may not be to everyone's taste, Beat Takeshi fans will get a great deal from his performance.