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The Hidden Blade

2004 · Movie · R · 132 min · ★ 7.4 · 80% critics

DramaRomance

In 19th-century Japan, a low-ranking samurai tries to leave his old life behind after falling for someone outside his social class. As his world shifts and pressures mount, he’s ordered to carry out a deadly duty that forces him to weigh loyalty, honor, and the future he wants.

IMDb

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Details
Original title
隠し剣 鬼の爪
Years
2004
Release date
2004-10-30
Language
Japanese
Rated
R
Runtime
132 min
Critic score
80/100
TMDB rating
7.4/10 (125 votes)
About

You’ll likely enjoy this if you want a quiet, character-driven samurai drama about duty and social change, closer to Twilight Samurai than an action showcase; Not for you if you need frequent fights or fast pacing.

Pros: thoughtful historical drama; strong inner conflict; believable romance | Cons: slow pacing; little sword action; familiar to some

Themes

  • samurai
  • based on novel or book
  • sword fight
  • revenge
  • honor
  • period drama
  • historical
  • caste system
  • jidaigeki
  • edo period
  • social class
  • feudal japan
  • +2 more

Awards & recognition

  • Japan Academy Prize — Picture of the Year · 2005 · nominated
  • Japan Academy Prize — Screenplay of the Year · 2005 · nominated
  • Japan Academy Prize — Outstanding Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role · 2005 · nominated
  • Japan Academy Prize — Outstanding Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role · 2005 · nominated
  • Japan Academy Prize — Director of the Year · 2005 · nominated

Cast & crew

Directed by Yoji Yamada