15 Most Underrated Samurai Films Of All Time

Members of the highest-ranking social caste in feudal Japan for centuries, the samurai were highly respected, disciplined, and skilled warriors famed for their military proficiency. During this long period in Japan’s history, the country was split into dozens of mini kingdoms ruled by daimyos who vied for the ultimate position of shogun. It was these daimyos whom the samurai fought for, which gave the shogun control over the country.

Bound by a strict code of honour known as Bushido and being an intrinsic part of a fascinating point in history, it’s easy to see why the samurai have become so firmly ingrained in popular culture. And nowhere is these warriors’ legacy better romanticised than in cinema.

For decades samurai have been at the centre of some of the biggest films in both eastern and western cinema, with names like Akira Kurosawa being just as legendary as these warriors.

Films like Seven Samurai, Yojimbo, 13 Assassins, and Throne of Blood are just some of the most iconic examples of the genre, but there are far more incredible and underrated films out there for those willing to dig a little deeper.

Although it has been credited as one of the films that introduced Japanese cinema to western audiences, Ugetsu (also known as Tales Of Ugetsu and Ugetsu Monogatari) has nevertheless been eclipsed by the likes of Kurosawa’s Seven Samurai and is only mentioned in select circles.

One of Kenji Mizoguchi’s most celebrated films, this Oscar-nominated feature blends fantastical elements of the supernatural with the filmmaker’s biting critique of masculinity and war.

Based on short stories by 17th century author Ueda Akinai, the film follows ambitious brothers Genjuro (Masayuki Mori), a potter seeking wealth in the city, and Tobei (Eitaro Ozawa), a farmer with dreams of being a samurai. However, when each brother acquires their goal, they come to understand the hefty price they must pay.

Though not a samurai film in the traditional sense, Ugetsu taps into similar themes of morality and society to profound effect, delivering them in an elegant and beautiful package.