Broken Swords

Synopsis

Broken Swords (秘剣破り), released in 1969 and starring Hiroki Matsukata, is a classic samurai film that delves into themes of honor, betrayal, and the quest for redemption. Set in feudal Japan, the story follows master swordsmen embroiled in political intrigue and personal vendettas that test their moral codes and fighting prowess. Known for its gritty swordplay sequences and intense character development, the film immerses viewers in the turbulent atmosphere of samurai life, where alliances are fragile and the line between friend and foe blurs. With its blend of action and drama, Broken Swords captures the essence of the chambara genre while exploring the human cost of a warrior's path.

Cast

• 

  Hiroki Matsukata

  Tenzen Tange

• 

  Kōjirō Hongō

  Yasubei Nakayama

• Tomomi Iwai

  Chiharu

• 

  Shigeru Tsuyuguchi

  Ryuanoshin Nagao

• 

  Yoshihiko Aoyama

• 

  Yoshi Katō

Reviews

Broken Swords has garnered a moderate reception among critics and audiences alike. On IMDb, it holds a rating of 7.0/10, reflecting generally favorable reviews, with viewers praising Hiroki Matsukata's compelling performance and the authentic period atmosphere. Many reviewers commend the film's choreography and deliberate pacing, appreciating its focus on character-driven storytelling over mere action spectacle. However, some critics note that the narrative may feel slow compared to contemporary samurai films, with occasional unevenness in plot development. While it does not appear on Rotten Tomatoes or Metacritic, specialized forums and Japanese cinema enthusiasts regard Broken Swords as a solid example of late 1960s chambara cinema. A FilmAffinity user review stated, "The movie's strong emotional core and gripping sword fights make it a memorable experience despite some narrative flaws." Overall, Broken Swords is valued for its classic style and thematic depth, earning a niche but loyal following among samurai film aficionados.

See also

Titanic

Kung Fu Panda

Jaws

Oppenheimer