Film recommendation: Tasogare Seibei (2002)

Posted On: 25 February 2022

Today we bring another film tip: "Tasogare seibei" (Twilight Samurai), winner of 12 Japanese Film Academy Awards, as well as an Academy Award Nominee for Best Foreign Language Film. It was directed by Yoji Yamada and features Hiroyuki Sanada and Rie Miyazawa.

 

Seibei Iguchi (Hiroyuki Sanada) is a low-ranking samurai who spends his days working hard to support his family. His wife dies of tuberculosis and his two daughters, Kayana (Miki Itô) and Ito (Erina Hashiguchi), depend on him to survive. He was trained by one of the greatest masters in the arts of sword fighting, but since he had to take over the domestic chores of his house, he has become more and more of an intellectual and peace lover. He earns the nickname Twilight Samurai because after his daily activities for the clan, he rushes home. Seibei works so hard that he neglects himself, his personal hygiene, the way he dresses, and his social interactions.

 

Seibei’s life takes a turn when his childhood sweetheart Tomoe goes through a divorce and he finds himself clashing with her violent ex-husband, a well-known and respected samurai. Tomoe begins to visit Seibei's house and help with household chores, also winning over his two daughters. Love is rekindled between the two again, but Seibei, conscious of his low-ranking status, is reluctant to declare his true feelings for Tomoe.

 

The sword fights in this movie are beautifully done. Check this one out: