The Hidden Blade (2004) Review in 2025
The Hidden Blade is a 2004 Japanese action drama film directed by Yojiro Takita, starring Hiroyuki Sanada and Takao Osawa. The movie follows a samurai who seeks revenge for his family's death.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is not suitable for young children due to its violent content and mature themes.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is worth watching for fans of action and drama, particularly those interested in Japanese cinema. However, it may not be suitable for all audiences due to its violent content and mature themes.
Spoiler Alert!
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The Hidden Blade is a gripping tale of revenge and honor, as a samurai named Ichi (Hiroyuki Sanada) seeks to avenge his family's death at the hands of a ruthless daimyo. Along the way, he must confront his own demons and the moral complexities of his quest for justice.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a clear narrative that explores the complexities of honor and revenge. However, the plot twists can be somewhat predictable.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with Hiroyuki Sanada delivering a standout performance as Ichi. The supporting cast is also excellent, bringing depth and nuance to their characters.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Ichi being a particularly compelling protagonist. The supporting cast is also memorable and adds depth to the story.
direction8.00/10
The direction is solid, with a clear vision for the film's tone and style. However, some scenes feel a bit rushed and could benefit from more development.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is stunning, with beautiful shots of the Japanese countryside and a keen eye for detail. The action scenes are also well-choreographed and intense.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The Hidden Blade is a gripping and well-crafted film with a strong narrative, memorable characters, and stunning cinematography. The action scenes are intense and well-choreographed, and the acting is superb.
Cons
The plot twists can be somewhat predictable, and some scenes feel a bit rushed. Additionally, the movie's violent content and mature themes may not be suitable for all audiences.
Notable Quotes
"'Honor is not just about following rules, it's about doing what's right.'"
"'Revenge is a poison that consumes the soul.'"
