Hara-Kiri: Death of a Samurai was directed by Takashi Miike, who directed the notorious Audition. Unlike its gruesome predecessor, Hara-Kiri: Death of a Samurai is only spiritually graphic. Hara-Kiri: Death of a Samurai compares and contrasts the image with the reality of samurai life in 17th century Japan. The rigid rule system is mercilessly rigged in favor of theoretical and against actual honor, bravery and skill. There is no room for humanity or practicality in this system. All the players are in the same caste yet the disparity in socioeconomic demographics is critically different. The narrative expertly shifts from present time to past events and varies in perspective from the haves and have-nots without any confusion for the viewer. Visually it is stunning and subtle-a duck over water: seemingly gliding smoothly while the emotion furiously churns underneath. Hara-Kiri: Death of a Samurai is a must see masterpiece, but if you’re depressed, maybe not for you. If you’re expecting nonstop action, you will have to wait until the end of the movie. Don’t let the subtitles deter you. By learning about the past, even a different country’s history, it can shed a light on our present alleged meritocracy.