Yet it doesn't go far enough for us to feel much of anything as Algren goes through all sorts of hell on a mission most improbable, first as Katsumoto's captive (he learns to speak Japanese in a matter of months), and later as his acolyte, ad hoc strategist and joyous -- except not joyous enough -- companion in arms, if need be to the death.
WSJ: Cruise Fights for Honor in 'Last Samurai'