The Last Samurai (2003) - Review by Jordan DeYoung

History of the film

The story takes place during the years 1876 and 1877. The Meiji restoration is in full swing (as it was in real life). Japan is modernizing at a rapid rate and is therefore losing out on many of its historical roots. One class greatly affected by the changes is the Samurai class. Formerly the highest rank, many edicts are put in place that affect their status and way of life such as not being allowed to wear their topknot or carry swords any longer. It also takes beats from the rebellion of Saigō Takamori who was a former leader in the Imperial Army that rebels after being slighted by the government. The rebellion is short lived, and the leader is killed on a hill near his village.

Historical Analysis

The movie is far more based in fiction than reality. Connections can be made for events that take place in the movie, but the story itself is fictionalized. As previously mentioned, an edict is passed where the samurai cannot wear their topknot. This is depicted when one of the main characters gets their topknot cut off. Another edict passed disallows the carrying of swords. This is shown in the movie by another main character being arrested for carrying swords to a council meeting. While these are fair connections, many other story beats are made up, such as ninja attacks and valiant last charges.