Review:

The Hidden Blade

Samurai [3***]

Insight into the "samurai culture", although limited to the protagonist's expereinces. There are very few uses of the sword here, but that is an underlying comment about the samurai. Look into it.

Love story [3***]

There's an underlying romance, if you will, theme throughout the story. I think this actually makes up for a good portion, if not the majority of the film. Handled very well for what it is and doesn't try to be what it's not. Doesn't feel fake, yet still predictable.

Seriousness [4****]

An 'A' for effort here. It maintains several levels of sophistication, and although it is not flawlessly pulling them off, nothing significant is lacking. Good closure for how much has to be done to bring it all back together.

Comedy [2**]

This is a bonus part. It is hillarious in some parts to see some Japanese swordsmen learn to use an artillery and how to march. lol. It's great! They are giving a show of the artillery and stop to bow each time before they make another step in the process.

Overall [3***]

Really, It's a 3 and 1/2. But I'd rather under-rate than over. Worth watching if you are into a decent story in the Japanese setting. Despite its sometimes dark motif's, it can have a real feel-good quality to it. Any way, you walk away with a good experience.