An expert explains why one of the best Japanese films of all time is ‘very realistic’

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An expert explains why one of the best Japanese films of all time is ‘very realistic’

Harakiri contains “very realistic“A fight scene, according to an expert. The 1962 Japanese jidaigeki film directed by Masaki Kobayashi is about a ronin who asks to perform seppuku, also called harakiri, on the estate of a feudal lord, and uses this moment to recount 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. The film’s cast includes Tatsuya Nakadai, Rentaro Mikuni, Shima Iwashita, Tetsuro Tamba, Ichiro Nakatani, Kei Sato and Yoshio Inaba.

IN Insider video martial arts and katana instructor Seki Nobuhide-sensei appreciated the depiction of samurai battles in films and TV series, including scene in Harakiri in which the main character fights several opponents simultaneously. Watch part of the video below, starting at the 20:36 mark:

Seki Nobuhide Sensei praised the realism of the scene, emphasizing the protagonist’s strategic movements to avoid exposing his back, and the natural transitions between one-handed and two-handed sword techniques for greater stability and slashing power. General, he rated the scene 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 as not to show his back and so as not to be cut from behind.

Going from one hand to two hands, and then from two hands to one is quite normal. It’s not surprising or anything. One thing that changes between one-handed and two-handed weapons is stability and slashing power. Instead of cutting like this and doing it this way, you can cut more firmly this way. This scene is very realistic. I gave it an 8 because it’s bright enough, even though the action isn’t particularly noticeable.

It’s very realistic


Hanshiro fights men in Harakiri

Martial arts and katana expert Seki Nobuhide-sensei emphasizes in his commentary that, in addition to being considered one of the greatest Japanese films of all time, Harakiri also very realistic. The film contains accurate depictions of samurai fighting, including a practical depiction of katana fighting. Unlike typical cinematic battles, the film avoids flashy choreography and focuses in one scene on the grounded tactics of a lone warrior fighting multiple enemies. For example, the main character deftly crawls along the wall to protect his back from being cut – a strategic move that increases the realism of the scene.

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In addition to combat realism, The film’s attention to detail regarding the katana’s technique further cements its status.. The smooth transition between one-handed and two-handed sword fighting reflects real-life martial arts practice, where changes in grip affect stability and cutting power. This subtle realism combined with intense emotional depth and storytelling makes Harakiri it is not only one of the most realistic depictions of samurai culture, but also one of the greatest Japanese films ever made.

Our view of Harakiri realism

This goes beyond combat precision


Harakiri movie

Harakirirealism goes beyond combat accuracy as it also captures the spirit and emotional intensity of samurai life. The film avoids exaggerated theatrical duels and instead showcases grounded and tactical swordplay that reflects historical practice. Every moment, from the strategic positioning of the protagonist to the natural changes in the technique of wielding a katana, serves a practical purpose. By portraying these elements authentically, Harakiri immerses viewers in the harsh reality of ronin life, cementing its place as one of the most realistic samurai films ever made.

Source: Insider

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