I do not normally care for Tom Cruise movies, but this one is outstanding. It is a wonderful story based on Japan's attempt to modernize in the late 1870s. One cultural mainstay has been the Samurai, their honor code, their wisdom, and the respect they commanded. The advisors to the Emperor convince him all the old ways, especially the Samurai, need to be eliminated. Tom Cruise, a war hero who once fought with Custer, is brought to Japan to teach the Japanese Army the western warfare of guns, cannons, and strategy. In a conflict with a powerful Samurai (Ken Watanbe), Tom Cruise is captured and taken back to the isolated village of the Samurai as a prisoner. It is a rare glimpse into the former Japanese culture, the ways of the Samurai, and how Tom Cruise falls in love with these people and their simple and graceful ways. Ultimately, there is a battle between the new Japanese Army and the last Samurai, with Tom Cruise fighting on the side of the Samurai. You will be mesmerized by the story, the scenery, and the battle scenes. It is now one of my favorite movies and I watch it when I want my spirits lifted. Of course, Blu-Ray makes it all the more beautiful.