The pacing, compositions and cinematography are just as solid, beautiful, and graceful (respectively) as anything Mizoguchi ever made. Still, I was underwhelmed. The story and its structure felt completely rote and uninspired.

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Mizoguchi's version of this oft-filmed story seems to focus almost entirely on the politics of the situation and the samurai code, and feels very cold and inhuman. However, in the last hour of the movie it gains a spark of humanity that almost redeems the first three hours. It was commissioned to inspire a sense of loyalty, but to me the effect is quite the opposite -- in this film, the samurais and their code of honor seem foolish. Overall, a disappointment.

From a stylistic standpoint, I haven't seen Mizoguchi out-class this - the camera movements are inspired. Unfortunately, the narrative plods along at a middling pace with little incentive for you to finish it.

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