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Similar to the original, the latest release by Sucker Punch Productions, the samurai adventure game, celebrates famous Japanese directors via special presentation modes. Where Ghost of Tsushima had solely a monochrome nod to the iconic warrior movies of the master filmmaker, the follow-up includes a partnership with the cult series creator Shinichirō Watanabe for a display option that adds chill music. Plus, there is a special Miike setting that enhances gore and dirt in battles and places the camera nearer to the fight.

Takashi Miike is known for a wide-ranging body of work, featuring works covering bloody yakuza epics, family-friendly films, and comic book movies. But if you’re looking for a entry point, viewers who love the samurai sword fights of this title must watch Takashi's 13 Assassins, a bloody good Japanese film.

A Timeless Reimagining including Powerful Action

Debuted in 2010, the movie reimagines of the original movie of similar name from filmmaker the original creator. The story centers on a band of warriors who, heavily outmatched, set out to take down the brutal the evil ruler (played by Goro Inagaki) to prevent him from joining the government assembly. Different nobles are concerned that his ascent would cause internal conflict as he’s left a legacy of aristocratic deaths in his wake, yet his familial ties to the Shōgun have left him unpunished.

Owing to Naritsugu’s actions and a violent climax, the film is hardly a movie for those who are squeamish. It begins with a person opposing his promotion by taking his own life, ritual suicide by disembowelment. The villain's brutality are not merely hinted at by other characters, viewers see them. He shoots projectiles at defenseless servants, and assaults a female then beheading her husband.

The assassins are in the right, to say the least.

The fighter the main character (played by the renowned actor) is tasked with eliminating Naritsugu. Much of the opening acts of the film is spent showing his menace while the assassin recruits allies. The group journey to a town where they set a snare for their target (battling adversaries during the trip). After their arrival, Miike hits his stride.

The Grand Conclusion featuring Immersive Battles

The ending shows why 13 Assassins stands as such a cherished samurai film. Shinzaemon and his allies don’t just lie in wait for Naritsugu to come to their weapons. Facing 200 with only 13, and must utilize every trick to take down Naritsugu’s forces. Namely, converting the entire town of Ochiai into a trap. (But not its citizens, who safely escape and aren’t caught up of the carnage.) The town itself is used as a tool; the warriors build numerous snares and defenses that might envy Kevin McAllister jealous, employing every strategy to get the edge in the upcoming fight.

The fight is glorious — and clear to watch. There is no the shaky cam of modern action movies confusing the action, or basic fights requiring a million cuts. Instead, panoramic angles and masterful direction prevent unclear scenes, turning an inherently thrilling long fight more enjoyable. The action is consistently understandable, even as many opponents pounce on (and are slaughtered by) one fighter in an arena of swords, as an instance.

How The Movie Remains Timeless

Watching again 13 Assassins, you can see why the developers links increased blood and mud with Takashi; the characters become covered in the elements. None escapes untouched, and those left standing at the end are coated with the grime of battle. It also feels very realistic, with minimal CGI used just for blasts throughout the village. The realism of the costumes, sets, and action lend the movie an almost classic vibe; it’s 15 years old currently, and appears as if it may have debuted just now.

If Ghost of Yōtei fans want to rest from experiencing sword fights and simply prefer to view some samurai action, fans ought to view the movie. Takashi's action movie matches ideally with this title, and should not be missed for all enthusiasts of the genre.