Reviews

I saw this in the theaters and was reasonably satisfied. It did have some of the best early (much emphasized in the tv ads of the time) computer morphing effects. But effects can't save a movie. Sadly, Alice Krige's excellent performance and basically good story premise can't save a movie that's fighting itself (read as: other actors, direction, story implementation and editing.) Alice Krige is wonderful, music is good and the effects were good for the times but everything else is well below average. That's why this one broke my heart. Some aspects hit home runs, but most strike out every time. One or two great players can't make a majority of weak players a winning team:( My Vote: 4/10

This isn't an award winning film. This isn't a well known film. But it has a good premise and is one of my secret pleasures. Two Brothers in a long standing feud over an ancient family sword and an American "dupe" that's been thrown into the fray. We watch his journey and education in a different culture with different values (yet oddly similar to ours, and riddled with similar weaknesses.)

The reason I know I like this one (even with all the flaws) is that it keeps coming to mind from time to time. And after some thought, I think it boils down to basic examinations of how to live one's life. How important is Honor? Is it better to take the quick and easy $ or to work for it? How important are family bonds? Are the modern ways of life any better than the traditional ones? Is it ever too late to turn your life around? And so forth. These are why I like this movie. Sure it can come off as a bit preachy about duty, honor, loyalty and traditional ways, but it has always made me think about what is the best way to live one's life.