The "armor fitting" with taka and algren towards the end is one of the most intimate, tender scenes in cinema. The lighting, camera angles and physical subtle acting are just on point. It always gives me shivers.
And then he comes out of the house and Ujio walks up to him and gives his nod of approval and it feels like Algren won all the lotteries in the world at the same time.
Absolutely!!! The vulnerability Algren shows to Taka brings the heat and she respects and honors that by not escalating and just wraps her arms around him in a mourning, and resigned hug. 💘😭💘😭💘😭💘😭💘😭
This isn’t just for this reaction. I’ve watched so many of your reactions for a long time now. The way you take in and “feel” the characters in the movies is special, rarely seen in other reactor channels and I subscribe to many. After watching so many Channels over the years to movies and shows you are one of my favorites. Your genuine way of discussing matters and the editing of your reactions is top notch. I’m a big movie watcher and every well known movie where I watch reactors do I wait and see if they show key, emotional, or important moments that mean something to me. Your reactions and edits always hit the nail on the head. It’s a credit to you and your team who put the videos together. Love your A Beautiful Mind reaction recently. That one comes to mind where many edits and choices of scenes to include are done perfectly. Lastly on a personal matter I can tell your a kind hearted, lovely soul. Even watching your paid ad in this video of you putting the standup desk together your often smiling and giggling with a free spirit. I had to put one together recently and it took me 3+ hours to complete, haha been there. I believe everyone would be lucky to have a friend or person like you in their life. Hope you and your loved ones have a wonderful time during the end of year holidays. Thanks for being you and sharing your movie experiences with us all. - Myles
That is what I like about Mary's reaction (and the other reaction channel that I reallly like): She is not just for the "cool stuff", but she truly feels the emotions, and she connects with the characters as deeply as I do, and seeing my journey in someone else's makes me feel good.
The fact this film was overlooked in so many ways upon its release is criminal. The first time I saw it was in 2006 at 17. I was working as a fruit picker on my school break, we all stayed at the farm in the crew shed and the farm owner came in one night and said "watch this one boys". Put the film on and we were all memorised. A group of 15 young men aged between 16-24 and you could hear a pin drop the second half of the film. I'll never forget it.
“Overlooked”? I saw it in theaters during its original theatrical run in 2003. It was actually quite a popular movie at that time and got mostly positive reviews.
@@RetroClassic66 It's more about comparing the love this movie garners now compared to what it was at release. I still remember the impact this movie had on me as a kid, I even remember the car ride home after watching it and reflecting on it. It had quite a bit of love then, but it has only GROWN over time. Especially with all the "Reactors" on TH-cam viewing it.
The scene where Algren hugs the kid is so powerful; the whole movie shows the contrast of Japanese culture, where people with real emotions are accustomed to hide them behind manners, honor, bows, politeness (Taka is the most prominent example). Even if this is a beautiful element of Japanese culture, the scene shows that sometimes "mixing" the two ways is the best solution, as the kid is in the end just a kid that needed an hug from a fatherly figure - which we can assume didn't happen with his real Japanese father. So beautiful way to show pros and cons of each culture, without being offensive, and demonstrating that a combination is possible.
I think most viewers wanted that scene with Algren, and Taka. Had it gone any further than it did, it would not have been even marginally believable, so I commend the film for showing some restraint. Taka is an amazingly engaging character. Accepting his apology. That bow when he thanks her for taking care of him. She just shows such unbelievable strength.
Katsumoto's last words have a double meaning. Even in the era of change from the samurai era to the westernization, he sticks to his own way of life and beliefs as a samurai, dying beautifully in battle, and the falling cherry blossoms that have grown splendidly over the years. From Japan
I always love when Mary goes into a movie without knowing anything and she says "I hope I will have a great time with this recommendation!". I am sorry, Mary, we promised you a great movie, not a great time (in the sense of happy time). Great movie, great reaction!
Katsumoto's final lines as he dies are the third stanza of the haiku he mentioned struggling to finish earlier in the film. It actually ended up being his death poem.
Never get tired of seeing people's first time with this great film. A lot of people don't know what it's going to be and everyone feels something powerful at the end. I really think there's something special about this movie. It may not be historically accurate, and the samurai weren't these uniquely honorable people in reality, but some of the ideas and practices of the samurai lifestyle had value and we lost an understanding of those times as the world changed.
@@ronweber1402 Have you seen the new remake of All Quiet on the Western Front? They really took advantage of modern FX to hammer in how horrific it was.
This movie broke me so hard. The story itself is not that original but it is portrayed in such a magnificent and sublimely beautiful way that I can't help but cry every time!
@@adamisajoker but also giving it a Hollywood twist, the Samurai weren’t fighting to keep to old ways but fighting to keep their political positions (real life)
As both a fully disabled combat veteran and an Atheist from here in the states I must say, this has been one of my favorite movies for almost 20 years. I LOVED watching your reaction and how you CONNECTED with the characters just like I did when I first saw this movie back in 2003 in the theaters! THANK YOU FOR THIS AMAZING REACTION!!
It's interesting how you used that clip of Hawkeye from Endgame because in that scene he had just killed the Yakuza boss Akihiko played by Hiroyuki Sanada, who coincidentally plays Ujio in this movie, the man who trains Tom Cruise's character Nathan Algren
Great reaction vid. This was filmed here at my home in New Zealand. Tom flew in a helicopter to set each day in the country side and his flight took him over a small country school consisting of 20 small children. Everyday they were outside waving to the helicopter so one day Tom had the helicopter land and he visited the children.
fun fact: the kid who played higen now all grown up and still being a great actor.. his upcoming gig is the remake of the greatest Japanese superhero, Ichigo
Tom Cruise is such a movie star that you are always aware on some level that you’re watching him on the screen, and yet he’s still able to embody such a wide variety of characters and I’m able to view each characters separately. He’s the best movie-star actor in the business. I adore this movie, one of my favorites!
2 scenes in this movie always seem to break me. The scene when the ninjas attack and after the fight when all the guys yell at the same time gives me mad chills and the scene where katsumoto dies. The cherry blossoms and a good death was all he needed.
"Honestly makes me want to go to Japan, but then this is old..." - there are some small towns in Japan which have been deliberately kept this way called "post towns". They're really beautiful and definitely worth a visit if you do go out there!
Interesting; I heard that a portion of the movie (the Mountain Village parts) were shot in New Zealand. They built the Village from scratch. So realistic that some of the older Japanese actors and crew actually wept because it reminded them of how THEY grew up.
This movie is one of my all time favorites. It's a cinematic masterpiece, and Tom Cruise puts the star in movie star. There's not many actors out there that have the consistency of good performances (And in my opinion good movies) that Tom Cruise does.
At the beginning I think you're right that Nathan didn't expect the soldier to be able to hit him under pressure. I also think he was so depressed he was okay with the soldier killing him if he could. His character arc from that moment until he's living in contentment at the end is so well done.
Katsumoto: "A perfect blossom is a rare thing. You could spend your life looking for one. And it would not be a wasted life." Katsumoto while dying looking at blossoms: "Perfect. They are all perfect." "Dances with Wolves" which you have watched, has a very similar theme and emotional pull to it as this film.
You mentioned Tom Hanks "fitting right in." A friend, I used to know, believed Tom Hanks to be a terrible actor. I didn't share his point of view. One of his most overlooked movies is "Joe Versus the Volcano." Its considered to be a romantic comedy like "Splash." I believe after he did the movie he started to refuse those type of roles in favor of roles like "The Bonfire of the Vanities." and "Philadelphia." They were more serious and got more attention which is why Joe Versus the Volcano got overlooked. Its a good movie. Maybe consider it for a future reaction. Its never going to get a lot of votes in a pole because not many people saw it. On another note. After watching how much you love Breaking Bad I remembered a movie that has a very similar feel that I believe you will love. Its dark, tough to watch, and very suspenseful. It was released in 2002. The movie is "Trapped." Best wishes.
This might be my favorite film of all I have ever seen. As beautiful as a Shakespearian tragedy. The music, the cinematography, the cast, dialog and acting. Top notch. It makes me want to do better. To be better. What more could I ask from a film?
I love Cruise's movies, and Top Gun: Maverick was insanely great, but The Last Samurai will always be my favorite Tom Cruise movie. There are times I cry even watching reactions, like yours. Great review, really love that you loved it. Take care, be safe!
Did you hear what she just said? We're you paying attention? She would like to live in that period, not for a long time, but for a short period; she just voiced everyone's desire for that. Remarkable.
"Godspeed" - an expression of good wishes to a person starting a journey or endeavor. "she wished him godspeed" A shortened version of "May god speed you" - meaning ‘may God help you prosper’.
Dont worry, if you travel to Japan you will find enough places that are like 1876. Just not in the Neon big cities but even there they have their spots that breathe this ancient spiritual vibe.
Mary, from every reaction I've watched of yours you have such an understanding and total empathy for human emotions it really is quite moving!......watching a film like this makes you wish for a better world with better people in it (of which you appear or be one)!
Greatest score of all time imo. The swells of the music are so emotional. You can listen to the score without the film and still go on an emotional journey.
Tom Cruise fits into most roles, as they are all written FOR him (few actors have that clout). He is indeed one of the most versatile actors ofhis generation. Pitt and Clooney are all in the same category.
This was one of my late wife's favorites. My father was Caucasian b.g. w/ a dash of Native American, and my mother of Japanese decent. My relatives on her side way back were themselves Samurai and a grand uncle possessed an authentic sword (of which I was actually able to view); very much a rare "hand-me-down" or "family heirloom".
As somebody whose primary study was Japanese history, it's not a historically accurate film, but is a deeply enjoyable film. The myth is larger than the reality, in the best way.
I think we can put it in the same category as Gladiator (even if the last samurai is far better imo), "historical" movies good enough to be enjoyable despite the inaccuracies
this movie always reminds me that I wish travelling was easier. I don't mean travelling to go sit on the beach or at a resort. I mean, I wish we could live in a different regions for a month or something to experience the culture. Maybe then, would we be more understanding of each other.
The interesting think about Japan is that, during Sakoku, the period of time when Japan was isolationist and did not allow foreign trade or contact for 265 years, they exclusively had dealings with the Dutch. Many Japanese scholars studied Dutch and that’s where all their western technology and ideas came from, they thought Dutch was the main language foreigners would speak and use and based most of their studies around. Then when Sakoku ended, they had all these English speakers coming and they realized.. uh oh, we better start learning this! Theres a lot more context and funny things and misunderstandings of this time. The autobiography of Yukichi Fukuzawa, a man who lived during this time, is a wonderful read and I recommend it to anyone who wants to learn about this era of change in Japan. He was also among the first Japanese to travel across the sea to America without western help or knowledge. He also visited other countries in Europe and had many funny misunderstandings and cultural shocks as an interpreter. He was a great man and I’d love to visit Japan one day, see his home town and the university he founded.
This was a great reaction. I really enjoy how you get so invested in the story and the characters. I binge watched your Band of Brothers reactions two nights ago and I believe it was the best reaction to that show I have ever seen. You are one of my favorite reactors. Plus you have kitties... Thank you for doing these reactions.
1994 Tom Cruise played in a movie "interview with the vampire" it is common lore now that he invested so much into that role that he actually turned into a vampire and didnt age since that time... facts...
7:07 its actually really complicated and theres lots of nuance. It's probably depicting the Indian wars against the great plains tribes. You've got to realize that the plains nations were actually savages. I don't mean that to be insulting but it's true. The US didn't really recognize the indians as independant nations and just sort of kept claiming land near them and it caused a lot of negative interactions by the time the US expansion reached the great plains. The Plains Indians were incredibly warlike and had not been influenced by Christianity. When Plains Indians raided they would kill the adults, the babies and the teenagers. Almost always very cruely except if they had to be quick about it. They didn't consider this immoral and expected to be treated the same way if they were captured. They would actually keep children of a certain age and adopt them and raise them as one of their tribe. They were always plagued by low birthrates, so they had to. The part I mentioned about Christianity is relavent because a highly religious country like the US was in the 19th century could tolerate men going off into the wilderness and being killed but when women and children were being killed the country demanded the government do something about it. Like i said theres nuance involved because white settlers did encroach into Indian lands, but the people at the time thought that was less of a crime then butchering women and children. Some of the retalitory attacks the US made on the Indians were as discribed in this film but what it doesn't mention is that this is exactly what the Indians did to each other as well. For the most part the Indians of the great plains were incredibly hostile. It's just a bad scenario all around for everyone involved.
In a movie filled with brilliant performances - Taka and Ujio [Katsumoto’s lieutenant with a name everyone forgets] manage to actually steal the show. As does “Bob”… Taka was brilliantly played… It is a real accomplishment to have made “dressing” for battle into a “sensual” but very “proper” act…the emotion just flows through the scene. Brilliantly done! And yes, it is essentially “Dances With Wolves” goes to Japan. Personally, I never cared for that movie much, because Kevin Costner was not a very good actor at that point in his career…too wooden. Cruise and this entire cast were superb.
There are places in Japan still worth visiting; Kyoto, Nara, Matsumoto, Takayama, Amanohashidate. You have to go native, stay at an onsen, wear a simple lady's yukata, stay at a ryokan (traditional inn). Go where the Japanese go, do what they do ... eat what they eat. Get a travel agent to arrange it ... maybe even a home stay in a small town. Learn a little Japanese ... attend a Buddhist temple tour or class, that is for foreigners.
This was filmed in a town called Taranaki in my country New Zealand. Sometimes it's hard to block out the fact most scenes are shot in places like where I grew up 😂
That was a great reaction to a great movie. A couple of other Tom Cruise movies that I'd highly recommend if you want to delve a little deeper into his range as an actor would be Rain Man, The Color of Money and Collateral. All three of those movies are entirely different and will give you a great look into the range of movies he is capable of as an artist. They are all older movies with Collateral being the most recent of those three. Tom Cruise is fantastic, and never understood why he got so much hate. The first movie I ever saw him in was The Outsiders in the early 1980s.
This is one of the last movies my father and I watched together before he died....its hard for me to watch but its so good even after all these years and multiple viewings.
This movie always gets to me. Every single time. When I first saw it in the theater, when the lights came on, every single guy in there was quickly wiping his eyes. Most of the ladies, my ex-wife among them, were just sitting there, blank faced.
High ranking samurai women were expected to fight to the death to protect their family. The primary weapon was the bow, the lon sword as backup, the shot sword to avoid dishonor. Only samurai could carry both swords.
I loved the dialog in this movie the most(other than the dressing scene). I could have listened to another hour of "conversations" between Algren and Katsumoto.
Superb reaction to one of my favourite movies. For another movie where Tom goes through, let's just say, character evolution...Edge Of Tomorrow is excellent.
as much as I'm a bit pissed of the inaccuracies of this movie, I can't get mad at it with how beautiful and respectful it is... Several things to know, it's based on a real war, the Boshin war when the Emperor who was more a religious leader tried to get more power, so the nobility, the samurais, were affraid to lose their own power so they rebelled. It was not a war between traditionalism and modernisation, because both sides were modernising, fighting with rifles etc. The Emperor was helped by the british, and the Shogun by the french, so Nathan Algrain is in fact inspired by a french officer : Jules Brunet. When the war was about to be lose by the Shogun, France called back his officers, but Jules Brunet refused to left his new friends behind and stay with them to fight. At the very end he escabed the last siege to protect his wonded men against repression from the victors.
one of my favourite movies ever, knew it would make u cry a lot. so much beautiful moments and sentiments the scene where the kid runs to get his father's sword and fight... without hesitation despite his fear... such a sense of his duty as the warrior of the house the scene between taka and algren when she robes him with the armour... more intimate and tender and meaningful than any sex scene could ever be just so many scenes and the score is top notch 👌
I haven't watched the reaction yet, but I wanted to say you did a great job on that sponsor spot and I hope that desk is working out well for you. I usually skip ads but you just seemed so hyped about it that I watched the whole thing lol.
Excellent movie!!! And an excellent reaction, thank you Mary! Loved watching this along with you, and seeing your emotions, I knew you would be touched and cry at certain scenes, I believe this role for Tom Cruise, was his, what I would call "maturing" role, as an actor, Ken Wantanabee was perfect for his role as katsumoto, I am very glad you enjoyed this film, and I looked forward to seeing more movies with you, take care!...👍👍👍👍👍
Most likely Algrens screaming for sake was combination of alcohol withdrawls and as this is pre penicilin time also piercing wound would have caused wound fever. Combined effect is probably mind shattering. After large surgery I was given some heavy duty opioid pain killers. Those gave quite withdrawls after the prescription ended. I can't imagine person who has been drinkin constantly for years to hide his trauma's being forced to quit like that. Also I have had sevear wound infection giving me very high fever. I can say by experience, this scene in film hits me. I always get goose bumbps as I remember the withdrawls I went thru and the delirium I got from high fever. Tom Cruise just nails to role. You can see so much emotion in his eyes. raging from death wish from musket shooting scene to love. Ken Watanabe is truly wonderful. I cannot recomend enough his performance in Clint Eastwood's Letters from Iwo Jima.
The “no mind” Is what’s also known as “beginners mind” in ZEN- Zen was a integral part of the Samurai culture due to its form and practice, and coupled very well with Shinto. So there’s several oblique zen references throughout the film. The shinken scene where Algren clears his mind then defeats the assassins - you are correct -harkens back to the “too many minds” scene earlier in the film.
I always love watching your reactions. You are a smart, caring and thoughtful, young lady. (And actually really funny too, at least you make me laugh so often...) This is such a thoughtful, strong movie. Very underrated. The dialogue, the acting, the cinematography. I have seen mit so many ti mmes and makes me tear up everytime. No other movie depicts core values, like devotion, loyalty, honor, respect, friendship and love in such a subtle and deep way. With probably one of the most careful and most tender love scenes ever. (It would have been in my view even better if they would not have kissed at all...) Easily one of my all time favourites. Your reaction just solidifies, what a thoughtful, caring and kind soul you are. Stay that way, please.
The moment with Egan is mostly left out by other reaction videos; I don't know why. It is such an important turning point in the film between the two of them. Thank You for including my most favorite moment.
Yes, he was having with drawls when he was yelling for Sake. When someone is an alcoholic the withdrawals are horrific. It’s not uncommon for a person to have hallucinations. In fact people sometimes die from alcohol withdrawals which is why hard core alcoholics need medical rehab usually to quit.
Katsumoto felt it was his duty to resist the turning away from the traditions of the past. Algren had the heart of a warrior that had been scarred by being ordered to kill without honour. Katsumotos death reminded the Emperor of his responsibility and Algren got his worthy cause.
This is Tom cruise finest performance for me.... I love everything about this film.. 1st time I watched it I thought it'd be an OK movie, the scene where he trys to show that the soldiers aren't ready absolutely gripped me and I just absorbed every moment after that.. Its probably one of my favourite movies and find it infinitely rewatchable
Fun fact! Ninjas didn't actually wear black unless needed. They camouflaged themselves to go unnoticed. Icon black became the default in peoples minds as that is what was worn in the plays on stage when ninjas were in story.
My favorite movie 💘🥰 Algren goes from a drunk with a suicidal death wish, to a man willing to die for the family that's adopted him 💘😭😭😭 I was lucky enough to get to go to Japan in '07 and it's everything you see here. It beautiful. I've had a existential dread ever since thsy I'll die without ever having gone back ... 😢
Algren wants to die. He feels he deserves it... It's why he tells the recruit to shoot at him, doesn't flinch and looks so disappointed afterward. It's also why he doesn't flinch or turn away at all when Ujiro feigns to cut his head off with his sword after Algren's taken prisoner ... 💔💔💔💔😭😭😭😭
Another great movie, and absolutely wonderful reaction, you truly do internalize the emotions of the characters, the feel of the movie, I even think you help others understand what there watching . I love your heart, thanks for your channel kiddo, I really appreciate you ❤️🩹🤓🤗
The scene where Algren gets beaten down, but didn’t give up, is reminiscent of Luke’s fight in Cool Hand Luke (1967) with Paul Newman and George Kennedy (Oscar winner for best supporting actor).
“The 47 Ronin” 1941, From Japan , Imperial Japan.. Is utterly amazing It’s 3 hrs plus but very historically accurate and gorgeous even in black & white It’s subtitled perfectly and easy to follow You should watch it even if just for pleasure You will not believe the Kimonos even in B&W, everything is so ornate Almost unbelievable, It’s free on TH-cam
My like and going for rest of videos was 2 points exactly. recognized the vision from 1st battle and just knowing the ritual of sepuku. Sepuku is the ritual and harakiri the actual action of disembowelment. On top of that you pointed the MOST KEY-POINTS of the movie instead of other ppl.You are the 2nd channel i like among 13 i have seen till now. Everyone with the same movie.
Hi MARY, since Cassie has reacted to the Mission Impossible movies, you could react to the Jack Reacher movies starring Tom Cruise: JACK REACHER (2012 film) and JACK REACHER: NEVER GO BACK (2016 films)
Pocahantas -> Dances with Wolves -> Last Samurai -> Avatar. The same story told over and over again....but this has been done since the days of Homer and Shakespeare.
San is an honorific like Mr, Sir, etc... its polite but not formal. It shows an honor but also a closeness. Sama would show more formality and more distance.
@Mary Tom Cruise's character is struggling early in the movie with the fact that he as a US soldier participated in the genocide of the Native America population. 4:48 they are talking about "the defeat of the Cheyenne" indian tribes. Let me be clear they are talking about the killing of one of thousands of Native civilizations in North America that made westward expansion happen. When Tom is doing his gun demonstration in a seen before that he's talking about how easy it is to kill Natives with guns when they were using mostly bows and arrows. He says "you can kill 6 or 7 Braves without having to reload." That's the context of the beginning of the story. He's a soldier that has turned against the people that have ordered the slaughter of Native Americans.
The "armor fitting" with taka and algren towards the end is one of the most intimate, tender scenes in cinema. The lighting, camera angles and physical subtle acting are just on point. It always gives me shivers.
And then he comes out of the house and Ujio walks up to him and gives his nod of approval and it feels like Algren won all the lotteries in the world at the same time.
That scene is very Japanese, the director and Tom did their research well.
Absolutely!!! The vulnerability Algren shows to Taka brings the heat and she respects and honors that by not escalating and just wraps her arms around him in a mourning, and resigned hug. 💘😭💘😭💘😭💘😭💘😭
@tileuxDoesn’t remove the intimacy and greatness of this scene.
@tileux i looked it up and think Algren and Taka are better. But to each their own.
This isn’t just for this reaction. I’ve watched so many of your reactions for a long time now. The way you take in and “feel” the characters in the movies is special, rarely seen in other reactor channels and I subscribe to many. After watching so many Channels over the years to movies and shows you are one of my favorites. Your genuine way of discussing matters and the editing of your reactions is top notch. I’m a big movie watcher and every well known movie where I watch reactors do I wait and see if they show key, emotional, or important moments that mean something to me. Your reactions and edits always hit the nail on the head. It’s a credit to you and your team who put the videos together. Love your A Beautiful Mind reaction recently. That one comes to mind where many edits and choices of scenes to include are done perfectly. Lastly on a personal matter I can tell your a kind hearted, lovely soul. Even watching your paid ad in this video of you putting the standup desk together your often smiling and giggling with a free spirit. I had to put one together recently and it took me 3+ hours to complete, haha been there. I believe everyone would be lucky to have a friend or person like you in their life. Hope you and your loved ones have a wonderful time during the end of year holidays. Thanks for being you and sharing your movie experiences with us all. - Myles
I happily echo all of your sentiments.
That is what I like about Mary's reaction (and the other reaction channel that I reallly like): She is not just for the "cool stuff", but she truly feels the emotions, and she connects with the characters as deeply as I do, and seeing my journey in someone else's makes me feel good.
Donate me some as well, I'm actually from the 3rd world
Ultimate simp
Very nice said, Myles, thanks to you from another Mary fan.
The fact this film was overlooked in so many ways upon its release is criminal. The first time I saw it was in 2006 at 17. I was working as a fruit picker on my school break, we all stayed at the farm in the crew shed and the farm owner came in one night and said "watch this one boys". Put the film on and we were all memorised. A group of 15 young men aged between 16-24 and you could hear a pin drop the second half of the film. I'll never forget it.
“Overlooked”? I saw it in theaters during its original theatrical run in 2003. It was actually quite a popular movie at that time and got mostly positive reviews.
@@RetroClassic66 It's more about comparing the love this movie garners now compared to what it was at release. I still remember the impact this movie had on me as a kid, I even remember the car ride home after watching it and reflecting on it. It had quite a bit of love then, but it has only GROWN over time. Especially with all the "Reactors" on TH-cam viewing it.
I mean, it was released very closely with a little movie called "The Return of the King". It's such a shame but there's no surprise it got overlooked.
The scene where Algren hugs the kid is so powerful; the whole movie shows the contrast of Japanese culture, where people with real emotions are accustomed to hide them behind manners, honor, bows, politeness (Taka is the most prominent example). Even if this is a beautiful element of Japanese culture, the scene shows that sometimes "mixing" the two ways is the best solution, as the kid is in the end just a kid that needed an hug from a fatherly figure - which we can assume didn't happen with his real Japanese father. So beautiful way to show pros and cons of each culture, without being offensive, and demonstrating that a combination is possible.
Tom Cruise's commitment to any given role is just outstanding, including the amount of work he puts into each.
Agreed. Top notch
Privately he might be a bit, shall we say, eccentric, but he's an amazing moviestar.
@@soho2409 Eccentric….. lol
Like how the samurai villagers were in this film
People clown on him for being weird, but he kills it every single time on screen.
I think most viewers wanted that scene with Algren, and Taka. Had it gone any further than it did, it would not have been even marginally believable, so I commend the film for showing some restraint. Taka is an amazingly engaging character. Accepting his apology. That bow when he thanks her for taking care of him. She just shows such unbelievable strength.
Katsumoto's last words have a double meaning. Even in the era of change from the samurai era to the westernization, he sticks to his own way of life and beliefs as a samurai, dying beautifully in battle, and the falling cherry blossoms that have grown splendidly over the years.
From Japan
Bob is the embodiment of the saying: "Fear the Old Man... in a profession where most die young"
Never really thought of it that way, makes you respect Bob that much more.
I always love when Mary goes into a movie without knowing anything and she says "I hope I will have a great time with this recommendation!".
I am sorry, Mary, we promised you a great movie, not a great time (in the sense of happy time).
Great movie, great reaction!
Katsumoto's final lines as he dies are the third stanza of the haiku he mentioned struggling to finish earlier in the film. It actually ended up being his death poem.
Never get tired of seeing people's first time with this great film. A lot of people don't know what it's going to be and everyone feels something powerful at the end. I really think there's something special about this movie. It may not be historically accurate, and the samurai weren't these uniquely honorable people in reality, but some of the ideas and practices of the samurai lifestyle had value and we lost an understanding of those times as the world changed.
That visual of the samurai getting slaughtered by the machine guns is haunting. Couldn't imagine having the courage to charge into that.
Re: WWI where countless soldiers walked into the rain of steel. Just horrific.
@@ronweber1402 Have you seen the new remake of All Quiet on the Western Front? They really took advantage of modern FX to hammer in how horrific it was.
This movie broke me so hard. The story itself is not that original but it is portrayed in such a magnificent and sublimely beautiful way that I can't help but cry every time!
The "story" is based on real history. Haha.
@@adamisajoker but also giving it a Hollywood twist, the Samurai weren’t fighting to keep to old ways but fighting to keep their political positions (real life)
This movie is designed to break you --- make you see the multiple flaws of the Western world
As both a fully disabled combat veteran and an Atheist from here in the states I must say, this has been one of my favorite movies for almost 20 years. I LOVED watching your reaction and how you CONNECTED with the characters just like I did when I first saw this movie back in 2003 in the theaters! THANK YOU FOR THIS AMAZING REACTION!!
It's interesting how you used that clip of Hawkeye from Endgame because in that scene he had just killed the Yakuza boss Akihiko played by Hiroyuki Sanada, who coincidentally plays Ujio in this movie, the man who trains Tom Cruise's character Nathan Algren
Great reaction vid. This was filmed here at my home in New Zealand. Tom flew in a helicopter to set each day in the country side and his flight took him over a small country school consisting of 20 small children. Everyday they were outside waving to the helicopter so one day Tom had the helicopter land and he visited the children.
Just more proof of how classy one Sir Thomas Cruise really is
A masterpiece of a movie. Never can watch it with a dry eye. One of my top 10.
fun fact: the kid who played higen now all grown up and still being a great actor.. his upcoming gig is the remake of the greatest Japanese superhero, Ichigo
The Last Samurai is actually in my top 5 (non franchise movies) favourite movies of all time.
Tom Cruise is such a movie star that you are always aware on some level that you’re watching him on the screen, and yet he’s still able to embody such a wide variety of characters and I’m able to view each characters separately. He’s the best movie-star actor in the business. I adore this movie, one of my favorites!
Interview with the Vampire is another Must Watch!
great cast
I'm so pleased you reviewed this movie - the subtle relationship between Algren and Taka and her family gets me every time.
2 scenes in this movie always seem to break me. The scene when the ninjas attack and after the fight when all the guys yell at the same time gives me mad chills and the scene where katsumoto dies. The cherry blossoms and a good death was all he needed.
"Honestly makes me want to go to Japan, but then this is old..." - there are some small towns in Japan which have been deliberately kept this way called "post towns". They're really beautiful and definitely worth a visit if you do go out there!
Interesting; I heard that a portion of the movie (the Mountain Village parts) were shot in New Zealand. They built the Village from scratch. So realistic that some of the older Japanese actors and crew actually wept because it reminded them of how THEY grew up.
I am so glad you saw this powerful movie. It is one of my favorites that demonstrate the importance of treating others honorably.
This movie is one of my all time favorites. It's a cinematic masterpiece, and Tom Cruise puts the star in movie star. There's not many actors out there that have the consistency of good performances (And in my opinion good movies) that Tom Cruise does.
At the beginning I think you're right that Nathan didn't expect the soldier to be able to hit him under pressure. I also think he was so depressed he was okay with the soldier killing him if he could. His character arc from that moment until he's living in contentment at the end is so well done.
Katsumoto: "A perfect blossom is a rare thing. You could spend your life looking for one. And it would not be a wasted life."
Katsumoto while dying looking at blossoms: "Perfect. They are all perfect."
"Dances with Wolves" which you have watched, has a very similar theme and emotional pull to it as this film.
You mentioned Tom Hanks "fitting right in." A friend, I used to know, believed Tom Hanks to be a terrible actor. I didn't share his point of view. One of his most overlooked movies is "Joe Versus the Volcano." Its considered to be a romantic comedy like "Splash." I believe after he did the movie he started to refuse those type of roles in favor of roles like "The Bonfire of the Vanities." and "Philadelphia." They were more serious and got more attention which is why Joe Versus the Volcano got overlooked. Its a good movie. Maybe consider it for a future reaction. Its never going to get a lot of votes in a pole because not many people saw it.
On another note. After watching how much you love Breaking Bad I remembered a movie that has a very similar feel that I believe you will love. Its dark, tough to watch, and very suspenseful. It was released in 2002. The movie is "Trapped." Best wishes.
Mary: "I hope I'm in for a good time!"
Us: "Mmmm, yeah... this isn't that kind of movie."
One does not simply Kingsman into a movie reaction.
This might be my favorite film of all I have ever seen. As beautiful as a Shakespearian tragedy. The music, the cinematography, the cast, dialog and acting. Top notch. It makes me want to do better. To be better. What more could I ask from a film?
I love Cruise's movies, and Top Gun: Maverick was insanely great, but The Last Samurai will always be my favorite Tom Cruise movie. There are times I cry even watching reactions, like yours. Great review, really love that you loved it. Take care, be safe!
Did you hear what she just said? We're you paying attention? She would like to live in that period, not for a long time, but for a short period; she just voiced everyone's desire for that. Remarkable.
use the reply function lmao
@@filthypleb9224 I'm pretty sure I just did, LOL.
"Godspeed" - an expression of good wishes to a person starting a journey or endeavor.
"she wished him godspeed"
A shortened version of "May god speed you" - meaning ‘may God help you prosper’.
Dont worry, if you travel to Japan you will find enough places that are like 1876. Just not in the Neon big cities but even there they have their spots that breathe this ancient spiritual vibe.
It's such a beautiful and moving film. One of Tom's best performances and supported by many wonderful actors too.
There are some historical facts in this, but it was Jules Brunet a French military officer who fought with the Samurai.
Mary, from every reaction I've watched of yours you have such an understanding and total empathy for human emotions it really is quite moving!......watching a film like this makes you wish for a better world with better people in it (of which you appear or be one)!
Pardon my ignorance, but is Mary French? I feel stupid for not knowing the accent but I can't tell.
@@ct6852Mary is Belgian as far as I know!
@@nhzrocks Oh that sounds right. Thank you.
Greatest score of all time imo. The swells of the music are so emotional. You can listen to the score without the film and still go on an emotional journey.
Tom Cruise fits into most roles, as they are all written FOR him (few actors have that clout). He is indeed one of the most versatile actors ofhis generation. Pitt and Clooney are all in the same category.
A beautiful movie, superbly acted, top shelf cinematography, and very well written. Thank you for your reaction to this phenomenal masterpiece.
This was one of my late wife's favorites. My father was Caucasian b.g. w/ a dash of Native American, and my mother of Japanese decent. My relatives on her side way back were themselves Samurai and a grand uncle possessed an authentic sword (of which I was actually able to view); very much a rare "hand-me-down" or "family heirloom".
Hello MARY, two very unusual Tom Cruise movies for you to watch: VANILLA SKY (2001 film) and COLLATERAL (2004 film). Your head is going to explode!!
As somebody whose primary study was Japanese history, it's not a historically accurate film, but is a deeply enjoyable film. The myth is larger than the reality, in the best way.
I think we can put it in the same category as Gladiator (even if the last samurai is far better imo), "historical" movies good enough to be enjoyable despite the inaccuracies
You are absolutely correct regarding the "Dances with Wolves" vibes. I've always called this movie "Dances with Samurai".
this movie always reminds me that I wish travelling was easier. I don't mean travelling to go sit on the beach or at a resort. I mean, I wish we could live in a different regions for a month or something to experience the culture. Maybe then, would we be more understanding of each other.
The interesting think about Japan is that, during Sakoku, the period of time when Japan was isolationist and did not allow foreign trade or contact for 265 years, they exclusively had dealings with the Dutch. Many Japanese scholars studied Dutch and that’s where all their western technology and ideas came from, they thought Dutch was the main language foreigners would speak and use and based most of their studies around. Then when Sakoku ended, they had all these English speakers coming and they realized.. uh oh, we better start learning this! Theres a lot more context and funny things and misunderstandings of this time. The autobiography of Yukichi Fukuzawa, a man who lived during this time, is a wonderful read and I recommend it to anyone who wants to learn about this era of change in Japan. He was also among the first Japanese to travel across the sea to America without western help or knowledge. He also visited other countries in Europe and had many funny misunderstandings and cultural shocks as an interpreter. He was a great man and I’d love to visit Japan one day, see his home town and the university he founded.
Everybody gives Tom Cruise crap but he is a good actor. This is a good film and Tom goes all in on the role.
This was a great reaction. I really enjoy how you get so invested in the story and the characters. I binge watched your Band of Brothers reactions two nights ago and I believe it was the best reaction to that show I have ever seen. You are one of my favorite reactors. Plus you have kitties...
Thank you for doing these reactions.
1994 Tom Cruise played in a movie "interview with the vampire" it is common lore now that he invested so much into that role that he actually turned into a vampire and didnt age since that time... facts...
Ahhh
"In the moment when I truly understand my enemy, understand him well enough to defeat him, then in that very moment I also love him".
7:07 its actually really complicated and theres lots of nuance. It's probably depicting the Indian wars against the great plains tribes. You've got to realize that the plains nations were actually savages. I don't mean that to be insulting but it's true. The US didn't really recognize the indians as independant nations and just sort of kept claiming land near them and it caused a lot of negative interactions by the time the US expansion reached the great plains.
The Plains Indians were incredibly warlike and had not been influenced by Christianity. When Plains Indians raided they would kill the adults, the babies and the teenagers. Almost always very cruely except if they had to be quick about it. They didn't consider this immoral and expected to be treated the same way if they were captured. They would actually keep children of a certain age and adopt them and raise them as one of their tribe. They were always plagued by low birthrates, so they had to.
The part I mentioned about Christianity is relavent because a highly religious country like the US was in the 19th century could tolerate men going off into the wilderness and being killed but when women and children were being killed the country demanded the government do something about it. Like i said theres nuance involved because white settlers did encroach into Indian lands, but the people at the time thought that was less of a crime then butchering women and children.
Some of the retalitory attacks the US made on the Indians were as discribed in this film but what it doesn't mention is that this is exactly what the Indians did to each other as well. For the most part the Indians of the great plains were incredibly hostile. It's just a bad scenario all around for everyone involved.
In a movie filled with brilliant performances - Taka and Ujio [Katsumoto’s lieutenant with a name everyone forgets] manage to actually steal the show. As does “Bob”…
Taka was brilliantly played…
It is a real accomplishment to have made “dressing” for battle into a “sensual” but very “proper” act…the emotion just flows through the scene.
Brilliantly done!
And yes, it is essentially “Dances With Wolves” goes to Japan. Personally, I never cared for that movie much, because Kevin Costner was not a very good actor at that point in his career…too wooden.
Cruise and this entire cast were superb.
One of the finest movies ever. A very nice reaction. And you're correct, it was a very emotional movie.
This one is in my top 10. So deep and more emotional than would have been expected. Also, one of my favorite soundtracks by Hans Zimmer.
There are places in Japan still worth visiting; Kyoto, Nara, Matsumoto, Takayama, Amanohashidate. You have to go native, stay at an onsen, wear a simple lady's yukata, stay at a ryokan (traditional inn). Go where the Japanese go, do what they do ... eat what they eat. Get a travel agent to arrange it ... maybe even a home stay in a small town. Learn a little Japanese ... attend a Buddhist temple tour or class, that is for foreigners.
This was filmed in a town called Taranaki in my country New Zealand. Sometimes it's hard to block out the fact most scenes are shot in places like where I grew up 😂
I watch this every year and every time it is a masterful story. Hits me so hard every time.
That was a great reaction to a great movie. A couple of other Tom Cruise movies that I'd highly recommend if you want to delve a little deeper into his range as an actor would be Rain Man, The Color of Money and Collateral. All three of those movies are entirely different and will give you a great look into the range of movies he is capable of as an artist. They are all older movies with Collateral being the most recent of those three. Tom Cruise is fantastic, and never understood why he got so much hate. The first movie I ever saw him in was The Outsiders in the early 1980s.
This is one of the last movies my father and I watched together before he died....its hard for me to watch but its so good even after all these years and multiple viewings.
Best one yet! I’ve seen this movie so many times and it never gets old. It was really great to see you get into to this one 💜
This was Ken Watanabes first american film and he killed it I loved everything I've seen him in after.
This movie always gets to me. Every single time. When I first saw it in the theater, when the lights came on, every single guy in there was quickly wiping his eyes. Most of the ladies, my ex-wife among them, were just sitting there, blank faced.
High ranking samurai women were expected to fight to the death to protect their family. The primary weapon was the bow, the lon sword as backup, the shot sword to avoid dishonor. Only samurai could carry both swords.
Great movie! The clash of cultures and the brutal modernization of feudal Japan to a 19th century culture is a great story.
I loved the dialog in this movie the most(other than the dressing scene). I could have listened to another hour of "conversations" between Algren and Katsumoto.
Superb reaction to one of my favourite movies. For another movie where Tom goes through, let's just say, character evolution...Edge Of Tomorrow is excellent.
as much as I'm a bit pissed of the inaccuracies of this movie, I can't get mad at it with how beautiful and respectful it is...
Several things to know, it's based on a real war, the Boshin war when the Emperor who was more a religious leader tried to get more power, so the nobility, the samurais, were affraid to lose their own power so they rebelled.
It was not a war between traditionalism and modernisation, because both sides were modernising, fighting with rifles etc. The Emperor was helped by the british, and the Shogun by the french, so Nathan Algrain is in fact inspired by a french officer : Jules Brunet. When the war was about to be lose by the Shogun, France called back his officers, but Jules Brunet refused to left his new friends behind and stay with them to fight. At the very end he escabed the last siege to protect his wonded men against repression from the victors.
This is my favorite movie, period. I’m so excited to watch your reaction :)
one of my favourite movies ever, knew it would make u cry a lot. so much beautiful moments and sentiments
the scene where the kid runs to get his father's sword and fight... without hesitation despite his fear... such a sense of his duty as the warrior of the house
the scene between taka and algren when she robes him with the armour... more intimate and tender and meaningful than any sex scene could ever be
just so many scenes and the score is top notch 👌
I haven't watched the reaction yet, but I wanted to say you did a great job on that sponsor spot and I hope that desk is working out well for you. I usually skip ads but you just seemed so hyped about it that I watched the whole thing lol.
Excellent movie!!! And an excellent reaction, thank you Mary! Loved watching this along with you, and seeing your emotions, I knew you would be touched and cry at certain scenes, I believe this role for Tom Cruise, was his, what I would call "maturing" role, as an actor, Ken Wantanabee was perfect for his role as katsumoto, I am very glad you enjoyed this film, and I looked forward to seeing more movies with you, take care!...👍👍👍👍👍
This movie is based on a true story 'Satsuma Rebellion' and the character of Katsumoto is based on Saigō Takamori (The last samurai)
Most likely Algrens screaming for sake was combination of alcohol withdrawls and as this is pre penicilin time also piercing wound would have caused wound fever. Combined effect is probably mind shattering. After large surgery I was given some heavy duty opioid pain killers. Those gave quite withdrawls after the prescription ended. I can't imagine person who has been drinkin constantly for years to hide his trauma's being forced to quit like that.
Also I have had sevear wound infection giving me very high fever. I can say by experience, this scene in film hits me. I always get goose bumbps as I remember the withdrawls I went thru and the delirium I got from high fever. Tom Cruise just nails to role. You can see so much emotion in his eyes. raging from death wish from musket shooting scene to love.
Ken Watanabe is truly wonderful. I cannot recomend enough his performance in Clint Eastwood's Letters from Iwo Jima.
I absolutely love this movie. It is tied evenly with Gladiator. And I've never seen a reactor NOT be brought to tears!
great reaction. i loved this movie. I agree with your sentiments at the end about the enjoyment of learning about other cultures through films.
Filmed in my country New Zealand. Film also filmed here in Aotearoa, Whale Rider 2002.
The “no mind”
Is what’s also known as “beginners mind” in ZEN-
Zen was a integral part of the Samurai culture due to its form and practice, and coupled very well with Shinto.
So there’s several oblique zen references throughout the film.
The shinken scene where Algren clears his mind then defeats the assassins - you are correct -harkens back to the “too many minds” scene earlier in the film.
I always love watching your reactions. You are a smart, caring and thoughtful, young lady. (And actually really funny too, at least you make me laugh so often...)
This is such a thoughtful, strong movie. Very underrated. The dialogue, the acting, the cinematography. I have seen mit so many ti mmes and makes me tear up everytime. No other movie depicts core values, like devotion, loyalty, honor, respect, friendship and love in such a subtle and deep way. With probably one of the most careful and most tender love scenes ever. (It would have been in my view even better if they would not have kissed at all...)
Easily one of my all time favourites.
Your reaction just solidifies, what a thoughtful, caring and kind soul you are.
Stay that way, please.
At 6:41, I always loved the knowing nod that Gen. Hasegawa gave to Algren.
The moment with Egan is mostly left out by other reaction videos; I don't know why. It is such an important turning point in the film between the two of them. Thank You for including my most favorite moment.
he is such an underrated actor!! it is an absolute travesty that he has not won an academy award yet.
Yes, he was having with drawls when he was yelling for Sake. When someone is an alcoholic the withdrawals are horrific. It’s not uncommon for a person to have hallucinations. In fact people sometimes die from alcohol withdrawals which is why hard core alcoholics need medical rehab usually to quit.
Katsumoto felt it was his duty to resist the turning away from the traditions of the past.
Algren had the heart of a warrior that had been scarred by being ordered to kill without honour.
Katsumotos death reminded the Emperor of his responsibility and Algren got his worthy cause.
This is Tom cruise finest performance for me.... I love everything about this film.. 1st time I watched it I thought it'd be an OK movie, the scene where he trys to show that the soldiers aren't ready absolutely gripped me and I just absorbed every moment after that.. Its probably one of my favourite movies and find it infinitely rewatchable
I love this movie. It is severely underrated and a beautiful story.
Fun fact! Ninjas didn't actually wear black unless needed. They camouflaged themselves to go unnoticed. Icon black became the default in peoples minds as that is what was worn in the plays on stage when ninjas were in story.
My favorite movie 💘🥰 Algren goes from a drunk with a suicidal death wish, to a man willing to die for the family that's adopted him 💘😭😭😭
I was lucky enough to get to go to Japan in '07 and it's everything you see here. It beautiful. I've had a existential dread ever since thsy I'll die without ever having gone back ... 😢
Algren wants to die. He feels he deserves it...
It's why he tells the recruit to shoot at him, doesn't flinch and looks so disappointed afterward.
It's also why he doesn't flinch or turn away at all when Ujiro feigns to cut his head off with his sword after Algren's taken prisoner ...
💔💔💔💔😭😭😭😭
Withdrawal. Alcohol withdrawals can bring a condition called "Delirium Tremen's" or the "DTs". Hallucinations accompanied with awful shaking 🤕😢
Hans Zimmer absolutely crushes it with the score in this 🥺💘😭💘😭💘😭💘😭💘😭
"They are all perfect... " 💔💔💔😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭
Another great movie, and absolutely wonderful reaction, you truly do internalize the emotions of the characters, the feel of the movie, I even think you help others understand what there watching . I love your heart, thanks for your channel kiddo, I really appreciate you ❤️🩹🤓🤗
The scene where Algren gets beaten down, but didn’t give up, is reminiscent of Luke’s fight in Cool Hand Luke (1967) with Paul Newman and George Kennedy (Oscar winner for best supporting actor).
“The 47 Ronin”
1941, From Japan , Imperial Japan..
Is utterly amazing
It’s 3 hrs plus but very historically accurate and gorgeous even in black & white
It’s subtitled perfectly and easy to follow
You should watch it even if just for pleasure
You will not believe the Kimonos even in B&W, everything is so ornate
Almost unbelievable,
It’s free on TH-cam
His last words about the cherry blossoms always destroy me! Love this reaction and your channel.
My like and going for rest of videos was 2 points exactly. recognized the vision from 1st battle and just knowing the ritual of sepuku. Sepuku is the ritual and harakiri the actual action of disembowelment. On top of that you pointed the MOST KEY-POINTS of the movie instead of other ppl.You are the 2nd channel i like among 13 i have seen till now. Everyone with the same movie.
Hi MARY, since Cassie has reacted to the Mission Impossible movies, you could react to the Jack Reacher movies starring Tom Cruise: JACK REACHER (2012 film) and JACK REACHER: NEVER GO BACK (2016 films)
Not only did Bob die for Algren the ONLY word he says the entire movie is his name. That's how much he earned Bob's respect.
Pocahantas -> Dances with Wolves -> Last Samurai -> Avatar. The same story told over and over again....but this has been done since the days of Homer and Shakespeare.
San is an honorific like Mr, Sir, etc... its polite but not formal. It shows an honor but also a closeness. Sama would show more formality and more distance.
Tom went to Japan 2 yrs before the movie to study Japanese, the language, culture, and sword work.
@Mary Tom Cruise's character is struggling early in the movie with the fact that he as a US soldier participated in the genocide of the Native America population. 4:48 they are talking about "the defeat of the Cheyenne" indian tribes. Let me be clear they are talking about the killing of one of thousands of Native civilizations in North America that made westward expansion happen. When Tom is doing his gun demonstration in a seen before that he's talking about how easy it is to kill Natives with guns when they were using mostly bows and arrows. He says "you can kill 6 or 7 Braves without having to reload." That's the context of the beginning of the story. He's a soldier that has turned against the people that have ordered the slaughter of Native Americans.
Such a minor detail but look at Tom's forearms when he was training with the Samurai's. He put in the work.