Harakiri

Synopsis

Harakiri, a 1962 Japanese film directed by Masaki Kobayashi, follows the story of a samurai who seeks to perform a ritual suicide called harakiri. The movie explores themes of honor, justice, and the brutality of the samurai code. As the protagonist delves into the motivations behind the ritual suicide, a complex narrative unfolds, revealing layers of deception, betrayal, and the true nature of sacrifice. With impeccable cinematography and a poignant portrayal by Tatsuya Nakadai, Harakiri is a gripping tale that delves deep into the psyche of its characters and challenges the audience's perception of honor and duty.

Cast

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  Tatsuya Nakadai

  Hanshiro Tsugumo

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  Akira Ishihama

  Motome Chijiiwa

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  Shima Iwashita

  Miho Tsugumo

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  Tetsuro Tamba

  Hikokuro Omodaka

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  Masao Mishima

  Tango Inaba

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  Ichirō Nakatani

  Hayato Yazaki

Reviews

Harakiri has received critical acclaim across various platforms. IMDb rates the film 8.6/10, praising its compelling storytelling and powerful performances. Rotten Tomatoes gives it a perfect score of 100%, with critics lauding the film's profound exploration of samurai culture and morality. Metacritic scores Harakiri at 85/100, highlighting its masterful direction and thought-provoking themes. Critics have described the film as a haunting masterpiece that lingers in the minds of viewers long after the credits roll. Roger Ebert hailed it as 'a work that transcends cultural boundaries, speaking to the universal human experience of honor and sacrifice.' Variety praised the film's 'elegant craftsmanship' and 'suspenseful narrative'. Harakiri stands as a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences with its profound storytelling and striking visuals.

See also

High and Low

Woman in the Dunes

The Driver

Kwaidan