Trailer for Takashi Miike's HARA-KIRI: DEATH OF A SAMURAI

Here is an international trailer for Takashi Miike's Hara-Kiri: Death of a Samurai. The film is a remake of 1962 feature directed by Masaki Kobayashi based on the novel by Yasuhiko Takiguchi. Hara-Kiri is one ot two films set to be presented at Cannes in 3D. Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides is the other one.

Synopsis:

Set during the 17th century and centers on Hanshiro (played by Ebizo Ichikawa), an honorable, poverty-stricken samurai seeking a noble end as he requests to commit ritual suicide at the House of Ii, run by headstrong Kageyu (played by Koji Yakusho). Trying to dismiss Hanshiro's demand, Kageyu recounts the tragic story of a similar recent plea from young ronin Motome (played by Eita). Hanshiro is shocked by the horrifying details of Motome's fate, but remains true to his decision to die with honor. At the moment of the hara-kiri, Hanshiro makes a last request to be assisted by Kageyu’s samurai, who are coincidentally absent. Suspicious and outraged, Kageyu demands an explanation. Hanshiro confesses his bond to Motome, and tells the bittersweet tale of their lives. Kageyu will soon realize that Hanshiro has set in motion a tense showdown of vengeance against his house.

Miike's latest film, 13 Assassins, arrives in limited theaters today, and is also available On Demand. I have heard it is Miike's most accessible film for the audience. I am excited to see it and plan on watching it soon. Hara-Kiri looks beautifully shot with so many vibrant colors, making it a perfect film to see in 3D. Check out the international trailer below and share your thoughts.