Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai Review by Simon (4 Stars)

Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai Review by Simon (4 Stars) | MatchFlick

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Movie Details

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Starring:
Forest Whitaker, Cliff Gorman, Henry Silva, John Tormey, Isaach de Bankole, Tricia Vessey, Victor Argo, Gene Ruffini, Richard Portnow, RZA, Camille Winbush

Directed By:
Jim Jarmusch

Written By:
Jim Jarmusch

Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai (1999)

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Movie Review by Simon
April 29th, 2007

Forrest Whittaker gives a brilliantly understated performance in this offbeat action-drama from Jim Jarmusch as an urban samurai who performs hits for the Mafia. Jarmusch balances the wry humour of the movie with its darker undertones, never letting it become too serious for its own good or slip into farce.

Whittaker's Ghost Dog, a man who lives his life by the ancient codes of the Samurai as outlined in the Hagakure, swears his loyalty to Louie, a member of the local, aged, dysfunctional Mafia. Ghost Dog's life, and perception of himself, revolves around ideals of service, honour, and friendship. Through the characters of Ghost Dog and Louie, Jarmusch explores many themes, chiefly how people attempt to identify themselves and find their place in the world in contemporary life.

Jarmusch's masterful directorial ability is on display here as he juxtaposes Samurai philosophies with pop-culture images and ideals and effortlessly creates characters and situations that verge on both the tragic and the ludicrous. The soundtrack by the RZA grounds the film in modern day American life and Isaach de Bankole provides some lighter moments as Ghost Dog's best friend, the Haitian ice-cream salesman who doesn't a word that Ghost Dog says.

Dealing with ideas of identity, culture, modern living and personal philosophies, this is one of Jarmusch's best works; an intelligent film that makes the most of its superbly talented lead.

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	B Movie Ben Apr 29, 2007 3:18 PM also wrote a review of Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai
I have been so looking forward to seeing this, but haven't had the chance yet. It's on my list.

	Simon Apr 29, 2007 6:15 PM
Don't hesitate! Forget that exam, or that job interview, or that all-important first date. Hire Ghost Dog today, and don't sue me for the consequences.

	B Movie Ben Apr 30, 2007 9:20 AM
You convinced me. I'll get it today.

	Zara Apr 29, 2007 2:29 PM
I think this was an Oscar worthy performance also, but I think that the Academy had a problem with nominating something that had "Ghost Dog" in the title.

	Simon Apr 29, 2007 6:16 PM
That damn Academy. Always keeping the Samurai down.

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