The Assassin

Watch The Assassin

  • 2007
  • 1 hr 52 min
  • 5.6  (33)

The Assassin is a historical thriller movie that takes place in the eighteenth century Japan. The movie revolves around the life of a young girl named Azumi who is trained to become a ruthless assassin. Azumi was raised by a master samurai named Gessai, and his associate Nagara, in a remote mountain village along with other children who were also trained to become assassins. Azumi is portrayed by Ira Amyx, who delivers a convincing performance in portraying a fierce warrior.

As the movie progresses, we see that Azumi and her fellow assassins are given a mission to assassinate a corrupt warlord named Masayuki Sanada so that the country can be saved from civil war. Azumi and her team embark on this dangerous mission, but they soon realize that there are other samurais and warriors who intend to do the same, resulting in a frenzy of conflict that adds to the tension of the film. The tension among the group increases as more and more complications arise during the mission.

As the movie progresses, Azumi becomes emotionally conflicted as she completes one assassination mission after another. Her loyalty to Gessai, who has trained her since a young age, is put to the test as doubts begin to arise in Azumi's mind about the morality and necessity of the mission they've been assigned. Azumi is also torn between her loyalty to her friends and fellow assassins and her duty to follow the orders of her master.

Lyndsey Anderson plays the role of Azumi's love interest, Kozue, who is also one of the assassins in the group. Kozue adds an interesting dynamic to the movie as her relationship with Azumi creates an emotional story arc that runs parallel to the main story. Jerome Preston Bates plays Nagara, the wise and experienced samurai who has served as Azumi's mentor and adviser throughout her life. Nagara's character adds a layer of depth to the film as he struggles with his own conflicting thoughts regarding the mission.

The movie boasts of beautifully choreographed fight scenes that are both thrilling and aesthetically pleasing. The fight scenes are well-executed, and the use of slow motion is done exceptionally well which accentuates the intensity of the scenes. The movie's setting and production design is well done and favors a minimalist approach which is in line with historic Japan.

The Assassin is a movie that provides a unique perspective on the lives of assassins in ancient Japan. It gives the viewers an in-depth look into the training and mindset of samurais who served as assassins and did what was necessary to protect their nation. The movie has a slow-paced narrative that heightens the tension and drama of each conflict. Eventually, it all comes to a climactic ending, which is both unpredictable and yet satisfying.

In conclusion, The Assassin is a must-watch for those who enjoy movies with intense action and high stakes. The contributions of all actors, especially Ira Amyx, Lyndsey Anderson, and Jerome Preston Bates, are thoroughly impressive. The combination of well-executed fight scenes, powerful character arcs, and a detailed account of the life of an assassin in ancient Japan make The Assassin a captivating movie that will keep viewers engrossed from beginning to end.

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Description
  • Release Date
    2007
  • Runtime
    1 hr 52 min
  • IMDB Rating
    5.6  (33)