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Synopsis

Nathan Algren is an American hired to instruct the Japanese army in the ways of modern warfare, which finds him learning to respect the samurai and the honorable principles that rule them. Pressed to destroy the samurai's way of life in the name of modernization and open trade, Algren decides to become an ultimate warrior himself and to fight for their right to exist.

Year2003
CountryUnited States
DirectorEdward Zwick
Cinematic Threads
We certainly looked at Kurosawa. 'Seven Samurai' was a major touchstone, not just for the battles, but for the depth of character, and 'Ran' for its visual majesty and the way it deals with the end of an era. His work was an invaluable guide for us.
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Films with Similar Themes

honor and tradition · cultural clash · redemption · warrior code · modernization vs. preservation