Harakiri
Shochiku | Release Date: August 4, 1964 CRITIC SCORE DISTRIBUTION
85
METASCORE
Universal acclaim based on 9 Critic Reviews
Positive:
8
Mixed:
1
Negative:
0
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Critic Reviews

Critic scorePublicationBy date
100
Chicago Sun-TimesRoger Ebert
Harakiri is a film reflecting situational ethics, in which the better you know a man the more deeply you understand his motives. Read full review
100
Chicago TribuneKevin M. Williams
Kobayashi unfolds the grim, cynical tale in layers, climaxing in a brilliant, beautiful swordfight on a wind-swept plain. [05 Dec 2003, p.C1]
100
Chicago TribuneMichael Wilmington
Kobayashi's great, laceratingly exciting 1962 Japanese samurai revenge saga, once voted by Japanese critics their country's all-time best film. [03 Mar 2006, p.C5]
90
Total FilmGeorge Wales
Whilst there is plenty of swordplay involved, it's the war of words and ideals that really captures the imagination here. Read full review
88
The Globe and Mail (Toronto)Rob Howatson
Few swords clash until the 100-minute mark of Harakiri, making it one of the most patient action films ever, but also one of the most beautifully composed. [24 Mar 2006, p.R13]
80
The New YorkerMichael Sragow
The film has a steady, hypnotic momentum; the director, Masaki Kobayashi, wrings as much drama out of facial twitches as he does out of sword fights. He’s helped immensely by Nakadai’s molten performance and Toru Takemitsu’s spare, disquieting music. Read full review
80
VarietyStaff (Not Credited)
This stunning film is a sombre tragedy [from Yasuhiko Takiguchi's novel] giving off deep rage against militarism, political systems and beliefs that do not allow for a rational human outlook or future change. Read full review
75
Slant MagazineBudd Wilkins
Structured with intricacy and precision, the storyline alternates between present and past, using its extended flashback sequences to delay and then detonate narrative revelations like so many time bombs. Read full review
40
The New York TimesBosley Crowther
You may not get much satisfaction from the tortured human drama in this film, but you should get an eyeful graphic exercise. Read full review
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