The original Japanese title of this film can be translated "Wine, Woman, and Spear." That pretty much sums it up.
Kuronda is a retired samurai bon vivant. Granted a last-second reprieve from the obligation to commit seppuku, he decides to settle down and marry one of two kabuki actresses who helped him enjoy what he thought would be his final days.
A few years later, his brother appears and demands that Kuronda commit seppuku, since his family has lost face for having a renowned coward as part of it. Kuronda refuses, stating that the code of Bushido is senseless and he is enjoying his new life too much to leave it.
Shortly thereafter, an old comrade persuades Kuronda to fight in the Battle of Sekigahara (Oct. 21, 1600.)On the eve of battle, his personal life takes several turns for the worse.
If you don't know much of Japanese history, the framing story will be tough to follow. But it is easy to get involved with the pleasures Kuronda discovers and to identify with him.
Director Tomu Uchida made several films critical of the ways of feudal Japan. This is a beautiful film to look at, and Uchida keeps things moving.
If you like samurai films with ideas more than just mindless violence, you will like this film. Highly recommended.
Kuronda is a retired samurai bon vivant. Granted a last-second reprieve from the obligation to commit seppuku, he decides to settle down and marry one of two kabuki actresses who helped him enjoy what he thought would be his final days.
A few years later, his brother appears and demands that Kuronda commit seppuku, since his family has lost face for having a renowned coward as part of it. Kuronda refuses, stating that the code of Bushido is senseless and he is enjoying his new life too much to leave it.
Shortly thereafter, an old comrade persuades Kuronda to fight in the Battle of Sekigahara (Oct. 21, 1600.)On the eve of battle, his personal life takes several turns for the worse.
If you don't know much of Japanese history, the framing story will be tough to follow. But it is easy to get involved with the pleasures Kuronda discovers and to identify with him.
Director Tomu Uchida made several films critical of the ways of feudal Japan. This is a beautiful film to look at, and Uchida keeps things moving.
If you like samurai films with ideas more than just mindless violence, you will like this film. Highly recommended.
