7. The Last Samurai (2003)
What happens when Hollywood tries to make a film about Japanese westernization partially based on historical fact? A flashy, style little substance war film starring Tom Cruise. Captain Nathan Algren (Cruise) is a washed up and remorseful American officer who feels guilt for his involvement in the native Indian wars. However, he finds himself accepting another job, as his task is to train the westernized Japanese imperial forces against a large Samurai rebellion. The Samurais defeat the foot soldiers easily, as Algren is captured by Katsumoto (Ken Watanabe) and his forces. Algren begins to adapt to the way of the Samurai, and joins them in their noble stand against the approaching imperial army. The thing is, Hollywood films set in, or about Japan will always try to tackle and depict the country's values in a certain way. While the film had excellent production values, a superb score, and a decent cast, it's message is slightly muddled. It depicts the Samurai as a noble caste of warriors who are fighting a righteous battle. The imperial forces are depicted as mostly corrupt, even though they were ultimately fighting for what they thought would advance the country. Several of the revisionist forces were also former-Samurai who defected. History is much more grey, as opposed to black and white in it's morality. While it may not be the most historical, or thought provoking film, it's an upscale epic that provides in beautifully orchestrated battle scenes, and scenery that will stun you.