One of the bright lights of Japan's film industry is the much-loved
and admired writer-director Yoji Yamada.

His last film Twilight Samurai was a powerful portrait
of an ageing samurai juggling his duties both as a father and a
warrior. It swept 12 Japanese Academy Awards (an all-time record),
including Best Picture and Best Director.

His new film The Hidden Blade is yet another sublime work
of art. Set in mid-19th century where Japan's samurai system is
slowly giving way to modern Western weaponry and military strategies,
Nagase Masatoshi plays a swordsman whose honour is tested when his
corrupt superiors order him to kill a fellow samurai.

The film depicts a bygone era in rich and wonderful detail. The
cinematography by Mutsuo Naganuma is warm and assured, and the acting
is masterful throughout. Director Yoji explores complex themes like
duty and honour, without ever losing sight of the humanity of his
characters.

The Hidden Blade is, undeniably, a gem.