Phil and Emily continue their Tom Cruise Mini-Series with a deep dive into Edward Zwick’s sweeping 2003 historical epic, The Last Samurai . Joined by esteemed film critic Bilge Ebiri ( New York Magazine ), they explore Tom Cruise’s transformation into a disillusioned American soldier who finds redemption and purpose within the samurai culture of 19th-century Japan. From its breathtaking cinematography and stirring performances to its complex cultural themes and historical context, the trio unpacks why The Last Samurai remains a fascinating—and sometimes polarizing—entry in Cruise’s filmography. Is it a flawed epic, a cinematic triumph, or somewhere in between? Tune in to this thoughtful discussion to find out! Follow Bilge Ebiri: Twitter: @BilgeEbiri #TheLastSamurai #PodcastLikeIts2000s #TomCruise #BilgeEbiri #EdwardZwick #HistoricalEpics #2000sCinema #PopCulturePodcast #FilmDiscussion #TomCruiseMiniSeries Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
