I was just waiting for something horrible to happen to the protagonist, who was a truly decent guy, througout the entire film.
The director created a great sense of tension / impending doom around Seibei Iguchi.
Yes, absolutely. You know what I think contributes a lot to this? The sound of the drum, the deep boom-boom of a big O-taiko drum. We see it now and then, being sounded as a time signal - time to stop work - and beaten faster as an alarm; but it's the quiet thump-thump like a heartbeat that makes us feel uneasy. Brilliant stuff; this is one of my top favourite films. Have you seen the other two, jake-anthony?
Kambei of the Gormful Gumi.
Yes, I definitely felt that. I thought he might go off and die or be killed at any point.
By the way, what are the other two, Suzume? I have also seen Hidden Blade, which was also fantastic. I think these Samurai movies might be my favorite genre. So much feeling, so much principle, so much restraint...
Right, the third one is Bushi no Ichibun (Love and Honour). A little different from the other two, just as good. I'd be hard put to choose a favourite. Enjoy!
Kambei of the Gormful Gumi.
Plus, the little details, like Iguchi actually practicising his swordsmanship before a duel, etc.
I LOVE those little human touches.