The Man Who Assassinated Ryoma

Synopsis

"The Man Who Assassinated Ryoma" (竜馬を斬った男), released in 1987 and starring Kenichi Hagiwara, is a period drama that delves into the turbulent times of late Edo Japan. The film explores the historical intrigue surrounding the assassination of Sakamoto Ryoma, a pivotal figure in Japanese history who played a key role in the country's modernization. Through its narrative, the movie investigates themes of loyalty, political upheaval, and personal sacrifice as it portrays the complex motives behind one of the era's most shocking acts. With meticulous attention to period detail and atmosphere, the film invites viewers to reflect on the tumultuous path that shaped modern Japan.

Cast

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  Kenichi Hagiwara

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  Miwako Fujitani

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  Jinpachi Nezu

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  Yoko Shimada

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  Bandō Mitsugorō X

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  Reiko Nakamura

Reviews

Critical reception for "The Man Who Assassinated Ryoma" has been mixed, reflecting divergent opinions on its storytelling and cinematic execution. On IMDb, the movie has a moderate rating of 5.3 out of 10, suggesting a mixed audience reception. Some viewers appreciate the film’s commitment to historical detail and its attempt to portray a complex political narrative; for instance, certain reviews highlight Kenichi Hagiwara’s compelling performance as a strong point. However, others criticize the film for its pacing and lack of clear focus, which some feel detracts from the overall impact. There is also commentary that the film’s narrative can be somewhat confusing for those not already familiar with this period of Japanese history. While not broadly reviewed on international platforms such as Rotten Tomatoes or Metacritic, retrospective analyses appreciate its cinematic style and period authenticity, though noting it appeals primarily to niche audiences interested in historical Japanese cinema. Overall, "The Man Who Assassinated Ryoma" is seen as a film with historical significance and artistic ambition but one that may not resonate universally due to its narrative complexity and slower pace.

See also

Taxi 3

A Christmas Prince: The Royal Wedding

In the Name of the Land

Duck Butter