Harakiri contains a “Highly realistic” Action scene, according to an expert. Directed by Masaki Kobayashi, the 1962 Japanese jidaigeki film follows a ronin who requests to perform seppuku, also called harakiri, in a feudal lord’s manor and uses the moment to tell the circumstances that lead him to seek Death in Front of an Audience of Samurai, set between 1619 and 1630 during the Edo period under the Tokugawa Shogunate.
In a Inside Video, a martial arts and katana instructor, Seki Nobuhide Sensei, rated the portrayal of samurai battles in movies and TV shows, including The scene in Harakiri In which the protagonist battles multiple opponents at once. Watch the portion of the video below, starting at the 20:36 minute mark:
Seki Nobuhide Sensei praised the realism of the scene, highlighting the protagonist’s strategic movements to avoid exposing his back and the natural transitions between one-handed and two-handed sword techniques for better stability and slashing power. generally, He rated the scene an 8/10 for realism. Read his full comments below:
Since it is one man against many enemies, it is very good that he crawls along the wall so that he does not show his back and he does not get hit from behind.
Changing from one hand to two hands and then from two hands to one hand is quite normal. It’s not surprising or anything. One thing that changes between one-handed and two-handed is stability and slashing power. Instead of cutting this way and doing that, you can cut more steadily this way. The scene is highly realistic. I gave it an 8, because it is quite lively even though the fighting is not flashy.
It is highly realistic
Seki Nobuhide Sensei, an expert in martial arts and katana, emphasizes how, in addition to being considered one of the greatest Japanese films of all time, Harakiri is also highly realistic. The film contains accurate depictions of samurai combat, including the practical depiction of katana fighting. Unlike typical cinematic battles, the film avoids flashy choreography and, in one scene, focuses on the grounded tactics of a lone warrior facing multiple enemies. For example, the protagonist cleverly crawls along the wall to protect his back from being slashed, a strategic move that enhances the realism of the scene.
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In addition to combat realism, The film’s attention to katana techniques further cemented its status. The fluid transition between one-handed and two-handed sword fighting reflects actual martial arts practice, where changes in grip impact stability and slashing power. This subtle realism, combined with the intense emotional depth and narrative, makes Harakiri Not only one of the most realistic depictions of samurai culture, but also one of the greatest Japanese movies ever made.
Our take on the realism of Harakiri
It goes beyond combat accuracy
HarakiriIts realism goes beyond combat accuracy, viz It also captures the spirit and emotional intensity of samurai life. The film avoids exaggerated theatrical duels and instead delivers grounded and tactical swordplay that mirrors historical practices. Every moment, from the strategic positioning of the protagonist to the natural shifts in katana techniques, serves a practical purpose. By portraying the elements authentically, Harakiri Immerse audiences in the harsh realities of a Rōnin’s life, cementing its place as one of the most realistic samurai movies ever made.
Source: Inside