This is primarily a film for hardcore Samurai film buffs. But that's it. About a half hour into the movie you sort of just realize that NOTHING IS HAPPENING. They build up to battles and NOTHING HAPPENS. Nami dies but they don't tell you why because NOTHING HAPPENS. The battle scenes are oversold by the write ups I've seen. The sword play is lacking in skill and excitement and the battles are just skirmishes. When the big battle finally happens, it is handled clumsily and slow. Takeda sends in reinforcements and they turn out to be a bunch of chicks beating a huge drum, on a platform carried by unarmed dudes who march past some riflemen who gun them down. Some attack! This film is NOT Braveheart or Last Samurai. If you want to see Samurai fighting watch "The Seven Samurai" or "Throne of Blood" or "Ran". Disappointing for all but the most eager Samurai fans. 3 out of 10.
Review of Heaven and Earth
