The Last Samurai (2003)
In this movie, Tom Cruise portrays a down-and-out, heavily drinking ex-military man who lacks direction in life until he’s embraced by a community. He subsequently dedicates himself to safeguarding the Samurai way of life. The premise raises eyebrows given the casting of an American actor in the central role, positioned as a savior within a historical context where such a portrayal is inaccurate. While perhaps not as egregious as some other examples, the film still carries troubling elements.
Remarkably, despite its flaws, “The Last Samurai” managed to secure an impressive four Academy Award nominations, along with three from the Golden Globes. The reasons behind how the Academy overlooked the film’s problematic aspects remain uncertain. While many individuals expressed dissatisfaction with the movie’s extended time in the limelight, its shortcomings are significant enough to warrant its eventual fading from memory.