THE LAST SAMURAI by John Logan !

THE LAST SAMURAI
by
John Logan

revisions by
Edward Zwick & Marshall Herskovitz

FINAL SHOOTING DRAFT
February 28, 2003


FADE IN:
1 A WHITE TIGER 1
Surrounded by dark shapes with spears. The TIGER's eyes
burn as he lunges at one tormentor, claws at another.
Suddenly, the TIGER leaps over them all and BURSTS INTO
FLAME.
2 THE FACE OF A JAPANESE MAN 2
Sits up INTO FRAME. He is KATSUMOTO. He has been
meditating. We will come to know him later.
FADE TO BLACK.
CREDITS OVER the FAINT SOUND of a BRASS BAND.
WINCHESTER REP (V.O.)
And now Ladies and Gentlemen, the
moment you've been waiting for...
Winchester, America's leader in
all forms of armament used by the
United States Army, celebrates our
Nation's centennial by bringing
you a true American hero.
3 INT. CONVENTION HALL (SAN FRANCISCO) - DAY 3
A trade show is in progress. Scantily-clad lovelies in
red-white-and-blue undies demonstrate the nation's newest
export: arms. Banners declaim the virtues of Winchester
and Springfield. Crowds mill around a stage, where:
WINCHESTER REP
One of the most decorated warriors
this country has ever known. The
bloody cornfield of Antietam. The
stone wall of Sharpsburg. Winner
of the Medal of Honor for his
gallantry on the hallowed ground
of Gettysburg.
LITTLE TIN SOLDIERS line up in a diorama. A troop of
Union cavalry facing brightly-painted Indian Braves on
horseback.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/8/03
3 CONTINUED: 3
WINCHESTER REP
He is late of the 7th Cavalry and
their triumphant campaigns against
the most savage Indian Nations.
Decorated again for his gallantry
in vanquishing the awful and
terrible Cheyenne at the Washita
River... Ladies and Gents, I
present to you: Captain Nathan
Algren!
A smattering of polite applause. The rep looks around.
No Captain Algren.
WINCHESTER REP
Captain Nathan Algren!
(beat)
Yes!... Yes!
(still no Algren)
[Where is he -- ?]
(to the audience)
One moment, Ladies and
Gentlemen...
He heads behind the stage where he comes upon a man
leaning against a wall, half-asleep on his feet --
CAPTAIN NATHAN ALGREN, U.S. Army, ret. The rep attempts
to awaken him, but Algren barely opens his eyes before
shutting them again. Next, the rep makes the mistake of
shaking him.
WINCHESTER REP
Algren. Hey --
Algren suddenly and ferociously comes to life, grabbing
the man by the throat, terrifying him.
WINCHESTER REP
No... Stop...! Aaaaagh...
For a moment it seems possible that Algren might choke
the man to death, but gradually he comes to his senses.
WINCHESTER REP
(collecting himself)
Damn it, man, you're on.
ALGREN
...Right.
We realize he's drunk. The rep goes to straighten
Algren's tie and recoils at the whiskey fumes on his
breath.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 11/6/02 2.
3 CONTINUED: (1A) 3
WINCHESTER REP
This company has an image to
uphold, you know.
ALGREN
I'm upholding. I'm upholding.
WINCHESTER REP
Sure you are. Here's your ten
dollars. Do the speech and don't
bother coming back tomorrow.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 11/6/02 2A.
3 CONTINUED: (2) 3
The rep walks away. Algren takes a last furtive swig
from a flask, steels himself, then climbs onstage,
stumbling on the steps.
ALGREN
My thanks, Mr. McCabe... You're
too kind.
For a moment, he looks down at the rifle in his hands.
ALGREN
This, Ladies and Gents, is the Gun
that is Winning the West.
Only a few people are paying attention as he looks at the
little toy soldiers and Indians, then out at a man
holding cue cards, and haltingly begins.
ALGREN
... Many's the time I've found
myself surrounded by a swarm of
angry hostiles -- with nothing but
this rifle between me and a
certain... and gruesome death.
But let me tell you, folks, when
you need a friend, Winchester is
by your side.
As he tries to recall the speech, the little Indian
braves begin sliding up the metal hill. At a nearby
exhibition, a STEAM CALLIOPE begins to PLAY.
ALGREN
And make no mistake, the red man
is a fearsome enemy. If he had
had his way, this scalp of mine
would be long gone and it'd be a
balder man standing before you
today.
A nice chuckle from the audience, but as the laughter
dies, something has begun to change in Algren's eyes.
Nearby, someone starts RINGING the BELL of a STEAM
ENGINE, further distracting him. He departs from the
script.
ALGREN
-- Like those poor bastards out
there on The Little Big Horn.
Bodies stripped bare. Mutilated
and left to rot in the sun. Just
a fortnight ago.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 10/25/02 3.
3 CONTINUED: (3) 3
Algren seems to be drifting off. The Winchester Rep
turns to his assistant.
WINCHESTER REP
That's not in the script. What's
he doing?
ALGREN
The Seventh Cavalry, Ladies and
Gentlemen. Finest bunch of
troopers ever to be led to
slaughter.
And softly at first, then louder, Algren begins to
whistle "Garry Owen." At first the audience is
perplexed, but gradually a few of them begin to join in.
ALGREN
Come on, now... To the Seventh!
As the whistling grows, Algren begin to dance a little
jig.
ALGREN
Captain George Yates. Sergeant
William A. Curtis. Private Thomas
Atcheson, Corporal William --
The audience claps in time to Algren's dance. In the
audience, one man laughs knowingly. His name is SERGEANT
ZEBULON GANT.
Finally the Winchester Rep has had enough, and speaks
from the crowd. [ALT: he steps up onstage].
WINCHESTER REP
-- Thank you, Captain Algren.
Thank you.
But Algren refuses to be moved. A new hardness creeps
into his voice.
ALGREN
[Excuse me, I am speaking of the
dead.]
(back to the audience)
Corporal William Teeman. Private
Benjamin F. Brown --
Abruptly, Algren stops. Eventually, the audience stops,
too. He looks out at them.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 11/6/02 4.
3 CONTINUED: (4) 3
However burnt-out and dissipated, Algren is a man
accustomed to command.
ALGREN
[I AM SPEAKING OF THE DEAD!]
The terrified Winchester Rep backs away. Nearby, the
CALLIOPE BEGINS again. So does the BELL. Grimly shaking
his head, Algren reaches into his pocket for a handful of
cartridges.
Algren begins loading the Winchester. The rep turns to
his associate.
WINCHESTER REP
Oh, God... Is he doing what I
think he's doing?
KID ASSISTANT
Un-huh.
WINCHESTER REP
(backing away)
Oh, God... Oh, God...
ALGREN
(looks out at
the audience)
The Model '73 lever-action
"Trapper." 7-shot capacity. One
round-per-second, accurate at 400
yards.
(to a boy in the
audience)
Son, you ever seen what this can
do to a man? Why this beauty will
blow a hole six inches wide in
your daddy's chest.
(to another audience
member)
That's right, Missy. You'll kill
yourself five, six, seven braves
without ever having to reload.
(finishes loading)
-- You'll note the patented
loading port and smooth cocking
action.
He cocks the weapon and aims it straight at the
Winchester Rep.
ALGREN
... Let's just see here --
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 11/6/02 5.
3 CONTINUED: (5) 3
Algren adjusts the aim over the heads of the crowd. KABOOM!!!
Ladies scream. The calliope is forever silenced.
KA-BOOM!!! A hole in the boiler sends a cloud of steam
billowing near the cowering Winchester Rep. KA-BOOM!!!
The incessant bell has been blasted into oblivion.
Suddenly the crowd is silent. He commands their
undivided attention.
ALGREN
I thank you on behalf of all those
who gave their lives in the name
of better mechanical amusements
and commercial opportunities.
In the silence, we look into his eyes and get just a
glimpse of his torment.
ALGREN
(looks out at them)
Mr. McCabe is here to take your
orders.
(throws him
the gun)
God bless you all.
As Algren gives a small bow and starts offstage -- before
tripping and stumbling headlong down the stairs. Gant
shakes his head.
4 INT. ALGREN'S HOTEL ROOM - NIGHT 4
Algren lifts his head from the wash basin into which Gant
has forced him in an effort to sober him up. He looks
vaguely like a drowned rat.
GANT
Nathan, you're the poorest
advertisement for civilian life
I've ever seen.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 11/6/02 6.
4 CONTINUED: 4
ALGREN
Thank you.
GANT
Five hundred clerks in the War
Department and not one of 'em
knows your whereabouts.
ALGREN
I've been busy.
GANT
Aye. Appreciated your performance
today, especially the little speech
about the Seventh. Bastard got
what he deserved, you ask me.
ALGREN
Who's asking you?
GANT
You've got a gift for melodrama,
Nathan.
ALGREN
You're a critic now?
GANT
No, boyo, just a fella who's saved
your sorry ass six or seven times
and still feels obliged to look
after you.
ALGREN
Thanks, but it was me saved your
sorry ass.
They smile. Both have saved the other more times than
they can remember.
ALGREN
When'd you get out?
GANT
Six months ago. Already failed at
mining, bridge building, and
selling insurance door to door.
Even tried working in a bloody
store. Can you picture me selling
haberdashery to the ladies? 'Oh,
dearie, don't you look a picture
in that lovely print...?'
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/8/03 6A.
4 CONTINUED: (1A) 4
As Algren reaches for the bottle, Gant moves it out of
his reach.
GANT
I've got a job for you, unless
you're considering a career in the
theatre.
ALGREN
I have a job.
GANT
There's only one thing on earth you
know how to do, Nathan. And that's
a man's job. Back in uniform.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 10/25/02 6B.
4 CONTINUED: (2) 4
ALGREN
I'm not wearing that uniform again.
GANT
Did I say a U.S. uniform?
5 INT. RESTAURANT - NIGHT 5
Gant leads Algren into a plush restaurant. A ONE-ARMED
MAN stands up.
ONE-ARMED MAN
Captain Algren, Charles Wright.
With the 9th Illinois at Shiloh.
I just wanted to shake your hand,
sir.
Algren is desperately uncomfortable with this adulation.
Nonetheless he makes the appropriate noises, then
continues on. Nearby, COLONEL BENJAMIN BAGLEY sits with
three Japanese men.
BAGLEY
Nathan, been a while. Good to see
you.
Bagley extends his hand. Algren doesn't take it.
Instead he gives Gant a murderous look.
GANT
(sotto voce)
Just hear what the man has to
say...
ALGREN
(flat)
Colonel Bagley, what a surprise.
BAGLEY
Nathan, I'd like you to meet Mr.
Omura, from Japan, and his
associates, whose names I've
given up trying to pronounce...
Sit down. Sit down...
OMURA, 40, is a handsome and intelligent man. Algren
sits down reluctantly. A WAITER hovers.
ALGREN
Whiskey.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 11/6/02 7.
5 CONTINUED: 5
BAGLEY
Japan's got it in mind to become a
civilized country and Omura here
is willing to spend what it takes
to hire white experts to train
their army.
Algren's cold stare is unnerving to Bagley. Omura
watches them carefully.
BAGLEY
Washington insists we only serve
as advisors, not combatants --
help them with training, tactics,
and the like.
(raises his glass)
And if we play our cards right,
the Emperor gives the U.S.
exclusive rights to import arms.
Algren's drink arrives. He downs it and trains his eye
on Omura.
ALGREN
I have an agreement with the
Winchester Company -- I'm sure
these people have some concept of
what an agreement is.
Omura suddenly speaks. His English is flawless.
OMURA
Your "performances" for the
Winchester Company bring you
twenty-five dollars a week. We
will pay you 400 dollars a month.
In 1876, this is an enormous sum. Gant almost spits out
his drink.
ALGREN
Five.
Omura looks at Bagley. He was not prepared to negotiate.
ALGREN
And another five hundred as a
bonus when the job is done.
(pleasantly)
How many other genuine heroes you
got lined up?
(looks around)
What does a man have to do to get
a drink around here?
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 11/6/02 8.
5 CONTINUED: (2) 5
He laughs heartily. A waiter hurries to fill his glass.
Omura and his associates confer in Japanese.
OMURA'S ASSISTANT
(subtitles)
He's rude.
OMURA
(subtitles)
That's how it is here. A land of
cheap traders.
GANT
So who would I be training your
boys to fight? "Theoretically"?
Although offended by Algren's temerity, Omura is
eternally polite.
OMURA
His name is Katsumoto Moritsugu.
He is samurai.
GANT
Samurai?
OMURA
The word you might use is
"warrior." Katsumoto helped
restore the Emperor to his throne,
but he is now a traitor, and he
must be punished.
BAGLEY
Mr. Omura knows we have experience
dealing with renegades...
ALGREN
Does he?
BAGLEY
He's even read your book.
(to Omura)
Captain Algren's study of the
tribes was a crucial factor in our
defeat of the Cheyenne.
Algren looks at Bagley, and then starts to laugh.
OMURA
Please excuse, what is funny?
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/8/03 9.
5 CONTINUED: (3) 5
ALGREN
Nothing. The old corps together
again. It's just so inspiring.
(stands up)
Excuse me. I need to use the
necessity.
Algren stands and starts out. Bagley also stands.
BAGLEY
This isn't a problem. I'll just
talk to him.
OMURA
Colonel Bagley, we contacted you
because you were Captain Algren's
superior officer --
BAGLEY
I'm aware of that.
OMURA
And you assured us of his
participation.
BAGLEY
He'll do it. Just give me a minute.
5A IN THE FOYER 5A
Bagley catches up to Algren.
BAGLEY
Nathan... They know all about you.
And reputation is very important
to them.
(Algren stares at him)
This is a real opportunity, so
what do you say we put the past
behind us...?
(Algren doesn't respond)
I did what I was ordered to do out
there. And I have no remorse.
(Algren glances up)
Nathan, you were the finest
officer ever to serve under me.
Now look at you.
ALGREN
You want me to kill Jappos, I'll
kill Jappos --
BAGLEY
We're not killing anybody --
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/8/03 10.
5A CONTINUED: 5A
ALGREN
(ignores the interruption)
-- You want me to kill the enemies
of Jappos, I'll kill the enemies
of Jappos. Or Rebs or Sioux or
Cheyenne, for 500 bucks a month,
I'll kill whoever you want.
(leans close)
But keep one thing in mind... I'd
happily kill you for free.
BAGLEY
And you will comport yourself at
all times as befits an officer.
Is that understood?
Algren burps loudly. And walks away.
6 EXT. SHIP (OCEAN) - DAY 6
A steamship churns its way across the great Pacific.
ALGREN (V.O.)
July 22, 1876. Twentieth day at
sea. Somewhere out there is
Japan.
Algren looks out into the endless waves.
ALGREN (V.O.)
For six months' work, I am to
receive three years of Captain's
pay. Could it be that training
Orientals to soldier is more
difficult than the simple-minded
conscripts in my own country?
7 INT. ALGREN'S TINY CABIN - NIGHT 7
Algren opens his suitcase. Inside is a brand new U.S.
Army uniform without insignia. He puts on the jacket and
studies himself in the small mirror.
8 A BRIEF, SILENT FLASHBACK - A WINDSWEPT RIDGE 8
Horses' hooves in the dust. Algren, wearing the uniform
of the 7th Cavalry, gives orders to a column of troopers.
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 11/6/02 11.
9 BACK TO THE TINY CABIN 9
From the open suitcase Algren takes a Colt revolver and
places the gleaming weapon on a table. He spins it. It
ends up pointing at him. He stares at it. And then,
unaccountably, he is laughing.
10
&
11
OMITTED 10
&
11
12 EXT. YOKOHAMA HARBOR - DAY 12
Like all Japan, Yokohama is at the cusp of a new era.
Ancient sampans and wooden schooners beside freighters
and steamships.
13 EXT. DOCK (YOKOHAMA) - DAY 13
The Yokohama docks are a frenzy of languages and looks
and smells and sounds. A series of rickshaws await our
voyagers. As does SIMON GRAHAM, a dissipated Englishman
who has lived in Japan for many years.
OMURA
Colonel Bagley, would you care to
join me?
Bagley gets into Omura's rickshaw, Graham smiles at
Algren.
GRAHAM
The hired help ride back here, I'm
afraid.
(offers his hand)
Simon Graham. I'm to be your
humble translator.
ALGREN
Nathan Algren. And Zebulon Gant.
GRAHAM
Welcome to Japan, gentlemen. Not
your Wild West, but I trust you'll
find it dangerous enough.
GANT
I'll see to the luggage.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/8/03 12.
13 CONTINUED: 13
Algren climbs into a rickshaw beside Graham.
ALGREN
Mr. Graham, I'd like to read
everything you can turn up on this
Katsumoto and his samurai.
GRAHAM
I'm afraid it's all in Japanese.
ALGREN
You're a translator, right?
The rickshaw sets off.
14 INT./EXT. RICKSHAW/TOKYO STREETS - DAY 14
In the bustling streets, white-face-painted geishas walk
alongside bearded Russians. Traditional Japanese kimonos
alongside European suits and hats; a schizophrenic world
of ancient Japan versus modern commercialism.
GRAHAM
Twenty years ago, this was a
sleepy little town. Now look at
it. For centuries this place was
sakoku, closed to foreigners --
until one summer's day, out of the
blue, your Commodore Perry sails
in with his gunboats and politely
requests they open the country to
trade... or else he'll burn the
entire place to the ground. Their
whole world turned upside down in
an instant. Government collapses.
Men and women crying in the
streets. Even the mighty Samurai
couldn't figure out how to fight
back.
(smiles)
But they're very clever, the
Japanese. They hired people from
around the world to learn how to
beat us at our own game. I came
over with the British trade
mission, but I was soon relieved
of my position.
(off Algren's look)
I had an unfortunate tendency to
tell the truth in a country where
no one ever says what they mean.
So now I very accurately translate
other people's lies.
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/8/03 13.
14A EXT. GUEST QUARTERS - DAY 14A
Algren, Graham and Gant enter an ancient courtyard.
GRAHAM
You'll be quartered here. Not
many places will accept Gaijin --
that's you and me -- but I'm sure
you'll be quite comfortable.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 10/25/02 A13A.
14A CONTINUED: 14A
As Algren and Gant start up the stairs, Graham clears his
throat.
GRAHAM
Oh, just a moment -- So sorry...
(slips his shoes off)
I'm afraid we're expected to leave
our shoes out here.
GANT
In the street?
GRAHAM
I'm afraid so.
Gant and Algren awkwardly begin the laborious process of
removing their boots.
15 OMITTED 15
16 EXT. PARADE GROUND - DAY 16
SOLDIERS stand at attention as Graham, Algren and Gant
step down from rickshaws. GENERAL HASEGAWA appears. He
is a seasoned soldier.
GRAHAM
Gentlemen, may I present General
Hasegawa. He will assist you in
training the army.
ALGREN
General.
General Hasegawa bows. Algren offers his hand. A moment
of confusion.
HASEGAWA
Youkoso okoshikudasai mashita.
Stachi o mite morai massho.
Graham translates:
GRAHAM
He greets you with extreme
courtesy and asks if you are ready
to meet the Imperial Army.
He leads them to a platform where a parade ground is
clearly visible. Soldiers in baggy uniforms are milling
around. Algren and Gant look at them.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/24/03 13A-15.
16 CONTINUED: 16
HASEGAWA
Shnipei to ittemo, hyakusho agari
no yose atsume de, nanimo
shirannshi, nanimo dekin nodesu.
GRAHAM
... The general asks that you
forgive him. The new conscripts
are peasants, who have never had
the slightest responsibility or
power.
ALGREN
Ask him what training they've had.
Graham speaks to General Hasegawa, then translates.
GRAHAM
Imamade donna kunren o
shitanodesuka to kiiteimasu.
HASEGAWA
Sukunakutomo, mikatawa utsuna to
oshiemashita.
GRAHAM
He says... We have trained them
not to shoot their asses off.
Hasegawa gives Algren a wry look.
16A EXT. PARADE GROUND - DAY 16A
Algren and Gant study the Japanese soldiers.
GANT
Jesus, Mary, and the Saints...
ALGREN
Sergeant Gant, have the men stand
to attention.
GANT
Sir.
(turns)
Imperial Army, Atten-tion!
Gant's N.C.O. translates:
N.C.O.
Dai ichi rentai, kyotsuke!
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/24/03 16.
16A CONTINUED: 16A
ALGREN
For God's sake, let's not keep it
a secret who's in charge here...
Mr. Gant.
GANT
(roars)
ALL RIGHT YOU LITTLE BASTARDS
STAND UP STRAIGHT OR I WILL SHITKICK
EVERY ONE OF YOU GOD DAMN
COCKSUCKERS!! ATTEN-TION!
The soldiers jump to attention.
GANT
Sir.
ALGREN
Well done, Sergeant.
GANT
Thank you, sir. When you
understand the language everything
falls into place.
We begin a montage:
Gant marches alongside the recruits, chiding them.
Nearby, Algren uses a blackboard to teach formations to a
group of young officers.
16AA INT./EXT. ALGREN'S TENT - DAY 16AA
Algren writes in his journal.
16AB EXT. PARADE GROUND - DAY 16AB
Gant and the Japanese Translator order the soldiers to
hold their arms. Algren inspects the line.
16B EXT. PARADE GROUND - DAY 16B
Algren introduces them to their rifles.
ALGREN
This is the U.S. Springfield Model
1861 rifle musket. Fifty-eight
caliber. It is effective only
when fired in volley. So we will
be teaching you how to fire in
formation.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/27/03 16A.
16B CONTINUED: 16B
Gant's N.C.O. translates:
N.C.O.
Kore wa 1861 gata beikoku
supringufeeldo sha 58 kokei
hoheijyu. Renpatsu jyu to shite
mottomo kokatekida. Tairetsu o
kunde uteruyoh ni kunrenshiteiku.
16C EXT. PARADE GROUND - DAY 16C
Algren instructs firing in formation. He is a hard
teacher, accepting nothing less than perfect execution.
ALGREN
Once again, this is a battle line.
On my command, the first rank
assumes a kneeling position.
Rifles at the ready.
(demonstrating)
The second rank moves half a step
to the right and half a step
forward.
Gant's N.C.O. translates:
N.C.O.
(translates)
Mo ichi do, kore wa senretsuda.
Shirei de zenretsu wa katahiza o
tsuke. Jyu o kamae.
(demonstrating)
Koretsu wa hanpo migi e soshite
hanpo mae e.
ALGREN
First rank kneel! In volley,
READY, AIM... FIRE!
N.C.O.
(translates)
Zenretsu hiza o tsuke zenin kame
nerai ute.
Fifty rifles dry fire. They have not yet been given live
ammunition.
ALGREN
Shoulder arms!
N.C.O.
(translates)
Ninaetsutsu.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/27/03 16B.
16C CONTINUED: 16C
Algren turns away from the recruits.
ALGREN
Take over, Zeb.
GANT
(under his breath)
And when they get live ammo, I
think I'll be in Kansas City...
(beat; ad lib)
First rank, STAND!
(ALT. OF SC. 27)
TIME CUT:
Algren has joined Hasegawa and Graham. Together they
watch the recruits train.
ALGREN
What can the General tell me about
this man Katsumoto?
Graham translates the question.
GRAHAM
Katsumoto in tsuite motto
shiritai.
HASEGAWA
Kare wa katsu et heika no shi de
air, mottomo shinrai sareru soudan
yaku deshita.
GRAHAM
(translating)
Katsumoto was (once) the Emperor's
teacher and his most trusted
advisor.
(editorializing)
But Omura's plan for a modern army
has taken away the samurai's
reason for being. Thus, the
rebellion.
ALGREN
(studying the
recruits)
Lieutenant! Get those men on
their feet! Close order drill!
(back to Hasegawa
and Graham)
Who supplies their weapons?
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/27/03 17.
16C CONTINUED: (2) 16C
Graham directs the question to Hasegawa, who answers.
GRAHAM
Karera no buki wa dare ga kyokyu
shiteiru noka?
HASEGAWA
Katsumoto wa samurai no michi o
shirumono tachi in agamerareteoru.
Imasara tobidougu nanka tsukawan
daro.
GRAHAM
Katsumoto no longer dishonors
himself by using firearms.
ALGREN
No firearms?
GRAHAM
(confirming)
Jyu wa...?
HASEGAWA
... Tsukawanyo.
GRAHAM
(adding a flourish)
To those who honor the old ways,
Katsumoto is a hero.
Algren looks at Hasegawa, who nods back politely.
ALGREN
How well does he know him?
GRAHAM
The General and Katsumoto fought
together for the Emperor.
ALGREN
He fought with the Samurai?
Graham looks at Algren.
GRAHAM
He is samurai.
17
thru
21
OMITTED 17
thru
21
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/27/03 A17A.
22 EXT. PARADE GROUND - DAYS LATER 22
The army has shaped-up considerably. Gant marches them
in review past a pavilion where a garden party has
assembled to see them. They applaud politely. A brass
band plays Yankee tunes as Algren and Bagley, in dress
uniform, are being congratulated by DIPLOMATS representing
all the powers currently trying to devour Japan: Russia,
England, Germany, France.
DIPLOMAT
-- Marvelous, Captain. Such
discipline. We're all so thrilled
you're here. The entire diplomatic
community is talking of nothing else.
You must dine with us at the embassy.
Graham comes to Algren's rescue.
GRAHAM
Monsieur Tarquin, forgive me, the
Captain is urgently required at
headquarters.
He steers Algren away.
ALGREN
Excuse me. My thanks, Mister
Graham.
GRAHAM
I wouldn't accept if I were you,
he's likely to poison your soup.
(looks around)
Oh, the vultures are out in force
today.
Graham greets each passing diplomat.
GERMAN DIPLOMAT
Mein Herr Graham, warum
marschieren sie nicht?
GRAHAM
Ah, mein Herr Graham, guten tag...
(to Algren;
sotto voce)
Beats his wife.
FRENCH DIPLOMAT
(to Algren)
Felicitation, Monsieur Le Capitan!
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/27/03 17A.
22 CONTINUED: 22
GRAHAM
D'accord, mon vieux.
(to Algren)
Pederast.
RUSSIAN DIPLOMAT
(to Algren)
Pri Krazna.
GRAHAM
Spaseba, Minster.
(to Algren)
He's a complete drunk.
As he continues on and mutters to Algren.
GRAHAM
You're a very popular boy.
Everybody wants to get a good look
at the competition.
ALGREN
This trade agreement must be worth
a pretty penny.
GRAHAM
Yes, but Japan's just the first
leg. Next stop Korea, the
Philippines, then the biggest
prize of all... China.
Omura separates himself from his entourage.
OMURA
A great success, Captain Algren.
The German ambassador was
particularly complimentary.
ALGREN
Mister Omura, any army can march.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/27/03 18.
22 CONTINUED: (1A) 22
OMURA
Indeed. And now you will teach
them to fight. Mr. Graham, did
you know Captain Algren is a great
hero?
GRAHAM
I made that assumption.
OMURA
He is also an author. "Battle in
the West: Tactics for an
Unconventional War," published
1872.
GRAHAM
A bestseller, I'm sure...
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 10/1/02 18A.
22 CONTINUED: (2) 22
OMURA
(looks at him)
You are a valued part of his
Highness' plans, Captain Algren.
You will be honored to know he has
commanded your presence at the
Imperial Palace.
Omura bows and leaves them. Graham is open-mouthed.
23 EXT. IMPERIAL PALACE - DAY 23
Algren, Graham and Bagley approach the ancestral palace.
GRAHAM
You must remember that he is
arahitogami. A god in human form.
For two thousand years no emperor
was even seen by a commoner. You
must understand what a treat this
is, and what an honor.
24 INT. IMPERIAL PALACE - STEPS - LATER 24
They climb the majestic approach.
GRAHAM
Now it's all highly ritualized, of
course. You may look at him, but
do not speak unless spoken to. If
he stands, you must bow. If he
bows, you bow lower. Do I look
presentable? I haven't worn this
in a decade. A bit snug around
the mid-drift.
25 INT. IMPERIAL COURT - THRONE ROOM - DAY 25
Algren, Bagley and Graham approach.
GRAHAM
(to Algren & Bagley)
And, bow.
(closer)
Bow.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/27/03 19.
25 CONTINUED: 25
Algren is surprised to discover the living god is barely
in his twenties. The divine EMPEROR MEIJI is an
intelligent and curious young man, yet there is a
tentativeness about him.
His throne is surrounded by ADVISORS, principal among
them is Omura. As the Emperor considers his guests,
Omura addresses them. Then:
OMURA
The divine Emperor Meiji bids you
welcome. He is grateful for the
assistance your country offers.
We hope to accomplish the same
national harmony you enjoy in your
homeland.
The Emperor speaks in Japanese.
OMURA
Captain Algren, the Emperor is
most interested in your American
Indians, and wishes to know if you
have seen them firsthand.
Algren looks at Graham, who nods. He may speak.
ALGREN
[Yes] I have seen them.
Graham translates.
GRAHAM
Hai... Mimashita.
They wait, but Algren has said his piece. The Emperor
whispers to Omura.
OMURA
The Emperor wishes to know if you
have fought against them in
battle.
BAGLEY
We have, your Highness. The red
man is a brutal adversary. He --
The Emperor is not interested in Bagley. He asks another
question of Omura. Bagley stops in mid-sentence,
somewhat nonplussed.
OMURA
(subtitles)
Emperor, must you ask this now?
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 10/31/02 20.
25 CONTINUED: (1A) 25
EMPEROR
(subtitles)
Just ask.
OMURA
The Emperor wishes to ask Captain
Algren if it is true they wear
eagle feathers and paint their
faces before going into battle...
and that they have no fear.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 10/31/02 A20A.
25 CONTINUED: (A2) 25
This strikes a chord in Algren but he buries it.
ALGREN
They are very brave.
The Emperor nods and smiles.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 10/5/02 20A.
25 CONTINUED: (2) 25
EMPEROR
(accented English)
Thank...you...very...much.
He stands. Everyone else hurries to follow suit. The
audience is over.
GRAHAM
(to Algren & Bagley)
Step back... Step back... Step
back... and, turn.
Algren, Bagley and Graham turn to leave.
26 EXT. TOKYO STREET - DAY 26
Tokyo is a city in chaos. Everything seems out of
balance. Dystopic. A collision of Eastern and Western.
Algren and Gant watch as Graham prepares to take a
photograph of an old merchant in front of his store.
GRAHAM
(subtitles)
Hold still while I count to
three... One... Two... Three.
Algren silently watches the passers-by. Something draws
his attention:
Across the street, a man is striding down the crowded
sidewalk. His martial bearing, two swords, traditional
dress and unique top knot of hair identify him as a
samurai.
UJIO's proud gait and rigid, imperious manner intrigue
Algren. Most of the people on the sidewalk instantly
step out of the way, bowing in deference. But two YOUNG
JAPANESE in Western dress do not.
Ujio stands before them, waiting for them to move. They
don't. Tense words are exchanged.
YOUNG MAN #1
(subtitles)
Oh, look. There's a man who's
still wearing a kamishomo [formal
samurai outfit].
YOUNG MAN #2
(subtitles)
You're still wearing a top knot.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 10/31/02 21.
26 CONTINUED: 26
ALGREN
(almost to himself)
Samurai.
GRAHAM
Yes, that's right. [Oh, dear,]
quite a proud one, from the looks
of him.
Ujio glares at them and moves off. The two Young Men
follow.
YOUNG MAN #1
(subtitles)
Not to mention two swords.
YOUNG MAN #2
(subtitles)
They're probably bamboo swords.
GRAHAM
Oh, dear. This is bad... He's
expecting them to show deference.
Across the street, Ujio barks out some harsh commands to
the two Japanese men.
UJIO
(subtitles)
And you call yourself Japanese.
They laugh in response.
Ujio's hand inches toward his sword. One of the men
raises a hand, says something clearly disrespectful.
YOUNG MAN #1
Your time is past...
Like lightning -- Ujio pulls out his long samurai sword.
It flashes -- with two precise strokes, he cleanly
BEHEADS one of the men --
As the beheaded corpse falls, the other man prostrates
himself. Ujio wipes the blade and sweeps it back into
its scabbard. Impassively, he turns away.
Algren isn't listening. As Ujio passes, he and Algren
lock eyes for a moment.
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 11/12/02 22.
27 INT. RESTAURANT - NIGHT 27
Algren watches a chef artfully wield a razor-sharp blade
in preparation of slivers of glistening, raw fish. Gant,
meanwhile, gazes unhappily at the live squirming eel
destined to be his dinner. Graham and Hasegawa sit with
them, cross-legged, on the floor.
ALGREN
The blade of that sword...
GRAHAM
Indeed, the samurai test the
sharpness of their blades by
practicing on corpses.
ALGREN
I've never seen an edge like that.
GRAHAM
Each sword is beaten and folded
and beaten a thousand times, and
then a thousand more.
(pauses for a bite)
This how a man is formed into a
samurai apparently. How he
becomes hard and sharp as steel.
(as the waitress
pours tea)
Arigato. Quite a spiritual thing,
actually. They say a samurai's
sword is his soul.
Hasegawa watches as Algren quaffs yet another cup of
sake.
HASEGAWA
(to Algren)
Sake...
(tries English)
... Good.
ALGREN
(nods back at
Hasegawa)
Ask him what kind of man this
Katsumoto is?
Graham translates the question.
GRAHAM
Katsumoto in tsuite motto
shiritai.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 11/12/02 22A/23.
27 CONTINUED: 27
HASEGAWA
Kare wa katsu et heika no shi de
ari, mottomo shinrai sareru soudan
yaku deshita.
GRAHAM
(translating)
Katsumoto was [once] the Emperor's
teacher and his most trusted
advisor.
(editorializing now)
You must understand, for centuries
it was the Samurai who guarded
Japan and fought her wars. But
now the creation of a modern
army...
(beat)
... the Samurai, well, some have
accepted the change, taken money
instead. But some just couldn't
bring themselves to do it. Thus,
the rebellion.
ALGREN
Who supplies their weapons?
GRAHAM
Katsumoto's samurai don't use
guns.
GANT
What do you mean, they don't use
guns?
Graham directs the question to Hasegawa, who answers.
GRAHAM
Buki wa don na juu desuka?
HASEGAWA
Katsumoto wa samurai no michi o
shirumono tachi ni agamerareteoru.
Imasara tobidougu nanka tsukawan
yo.
GRAHAM
To those who honor the old ways,
Katsumoto is a hero. He no longer
dishonors himself by touching
firearms.
GANT
He used them once, but now he
doesn't?
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 11/12/02 24.
27 CONTINUED: (1A) 27
GRAHAM
He gave them up, yes. Felt they
diminished Bushido, "The Way of
the Warrior." A code of behavior.
Very serious stuff.
Algren looks at Hasegawa, who nods back politely.
ALGREN
How well does he know him?
GRAHAM
The General and Katsumoto fought
together for the Emperor.
ALGREN
He fought with the samurai?
Graham looks at Algren.
GRAHAM
He is samurai.
28 INT. ALGREN'S QUARTERS - LATER 28
CLOSE ON a brilliantly-colored print of a Samurai battle.
Horses rear, swords flash, severed heads litter the
ground. Algren is studying it, still drinking sake.
GRAHAM
Vexing people, the samurai.
Blood-thirsty, honorable, cruel,
fabulously artistic. Wanted to
write a book about them for years,
but they tend to keep to
themselves.
GANT
Bastards still wear armor...
GRAHAM
Yes, and when the Irish were still
comporting themselves in
loincloths, these chaps were
already the most sophisticated
warriors on earth.
ALGREN
I want detailed accounts of their
battle tactics.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/8/03 24A.
28 CONTINUED: 28
GRAHAM
I have several books on it.
(bows to Algren)
Just waiting to be translated.
GANT
Captain'll be speaking the lingo
in no time. You should hear him
blather on in Blackfoot.
GRAHAM
A fellow linguist! Come on, sir,
a word or two in the savage
tongue.
Algren glances disapprovingly at Gant.
ALGREN
Sorry, can't remember.
GRAHAM
Nonsense, you were among them for
how long? Just "hello" or
"goodbye" or "cut his tongue out
and boil him in oil."
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/8/03 25.
28 CONTINUED: (1A) 28
Gant sees how troubling this line of discussion is for
Algren.
GANT
Early day tomorrow, Captaindarlin',
time for bed, isn't it?
GRAHAM
I've always had a dread
fascination with scalping. But
I've never quite understood the
technique.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 10/25/02 A25A.
28 CONTINUED: (2) 28
Something changes in Algren's eyes at the mention of
scalping.
GANT
Ah, the English and their love of
torture.
GRAHAM
I beg your pardon --
GANT
A lovely race -- the rack, the
spike, and the bloody Tower of
London.
GRAHAM
I was not speaking to you, you
uncivilized hooligan.
GANT
I sir am an American citizen and
no longer under the boot heel of
the English oppressor.
Algren interrupts them. His tone is flat and unemotional.
ALGREN
...First you need to grab a
handful of hair and give it a
quick jerk in order to loosen the
skin. Then you saw the scalp off
a little at a time because the
blades are usually dull and the
skin doesn't come off all at once.
The problem is getting enough
leverage when your hands are
bloody...and slick. And, of
course, the person being scalped
in generally still alive and
screaming. So a knee in the back
tends to quiet them down and give
you the purchase you need to
finish the job.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 10/1/02 25A.
28 CONTINUED: (3) 28
Graham stares at him in revulsion. Gant is not
surprised.
ALGREN
How soon can you translate those
books?
GRAHAM
(recovering)
Right away. I'm delighted you're
taking such interest in the
Samurai.
ALGREN
I don't give a damn about the
Samurai. I want to know my enemy.
GRAHAM
I shall not sleep until it is done.
(stands; woozy)
Ah, sake...
GANT
(after Graham leaves)
You'll be all right?
ALGREN
Leave the bottle.
Gant leaves. Algren pours another shot, studies the
pictures.
29 INT. ALGREN'S QUARTERS - LATER 29
The bottle is empty. Algren sits in a drunken stupor.
30 FLASHBACK - A WINDSWEPT RIDGE 30
A line of mounted cavalry waits atop the ridge.
Algren is next to COLONEL BAGLEY. Gant is nearby. In
the valley below, a peaceful Indian village.
ALGREN
Sir, let me go down and talk to
Black Kettle.
BAGLEY
And lose all element of surprise?
(CONTINUED)
26.
30 CONTINUED: 30
ALGREN
I assured him his people would be
safe if they stayed on the
reservation.
BAGLEY
Captain, this is a punitive
expedition. We're not here to
assure them of anything.
ALGREN
These people had nothing to do
with the raids!
BAGLEY
Then this will serve as a lesson
to those who did.
Bagley pulls his sword.
ALGREN
I promised him!
BAGLEY
And we promised the settlers we'd
protect them.
(to the men)
Quietly now, boys.
And slowly the horses begin to descend on the village.
31 INT. GRAHAM'S ROOM - SAME 31
A bleary-eyed Graham is still awake, translating. He
hears a commotion.
ALGREN (O.S.)
I PROMISED HIM! I'M TELLING YOU,
PROMISED HIM...! ... NO!
32 INT. ALGREN'S QUARTERS - SAME 32
Algren is now screaming curses at a terrified SERVANT.
Graham hurries in.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 10/25/02 27.
32 CONTINUED: 32
SERVANT
(subtitles; to Graham)
He was disturbing the other guests...
ALGREN
SPEAK ENGLISH YOU LITTLE YELLOW
TURD! STOP BOWING AND FIND ME
SOMETHING TO DRINK! CHOP-CHOP!!!
It is more than apparent that Algren is still drunk.
GRAHAM
Captain Algren, if I may...
ALGREN
DROP DEAD YOU LIMEY NINNY! I
DON'T NEED ANY MORE HISTORY
LESSONS!
Algren throws the empty bottle through the paper wall.
Gant enters. Graham looks at him helplessly.
GANT
Leave him be.
He indicates that the Servant should go. They leave
Algren mumbling to himself in a corner.
33 INT. HALLWAY OUTSIDE ALGREN'S ROOM - LATER 33
GRAHAM
What in God's name was that?
GANT
He has trouble sleeping. He'll be
all right by morning.
GRAHAM
What was all that about a promise?
GANT
He'll be all right by morning.
34 EXT. PARADE GROUND - NEXT DAY 34
The training continues. A line of recruits fires at a
series of distant targets. Algren watches, more than a
little hungover.
GANT
READY! AIM! FIRE!
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/27/03 28.
34 CONTINUED: 34
The recruits FIRE their WEAPONS.
GANT
LOAD!
Algren frowns.
ALGREN
Sergeant Gant. Their marksmanship
is appalling.
GANT
Oh, I wouldn't have thought they
were that good, sir!
Algren approaches one of the recruits, tries to assist
him.
ALGREN
Now, son. Butt of the rifle into
the shoulder, cheek against the
stock, eye down the sight. Then
softly... softly... Squeeze.
N.C.O.
(translates)
Jyu o kata ni ate ho ho ni
tsukeru. Nerai o sadamete
yukuri... hikigane o hike.
OMURA (O.S.)
Good morning, Captain.
Algren closes his eyes as he realizes Omura and Bagley
are approaching him.
BAGLEY
Nathan.
(takes Algren aside)
Katsumoto has attacked the
railroad at the border of his
province.
Algren looks at the soldiers continuing to take target
practice.
OMURA
We cannot govern a country in
which we cannot travel freely...
He must be stopped now.
ALGREN
They're not ready.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/27/03 29.
34 CONTINUED: (1A) 34
BAGLEY
The rebels don't have a single
rifle. They're savages with bows
and arrows!
ALGREN
-- whose sole occupation for the
last thousand years has been war.
Omura looks at Bagley. Who exactly is in command here?
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/27/03 29A.
34 CONTINUED: (2) 34
BAGLEY
You have superior firepower and a
larger force. I am ordering the
regiment to move against the rebel
Katsumoto. Are you prepared to
obey this order?
Algren looks off for a moment, then heads back to the
firing range. Omura and Bagley watch as Algren
approaches a young soldier.
ALGREN
Fire at the target.
The boy takes careful aim, and misses the target a
hundred feet away.
Algren shakes his head and starts to walk toward the
targets -- into the field of fire. There is instant
commotion as men STOP FIRING and point at Algren.
GANT
Captain?
Omura and Bagley look at each other. Algren continues
walking -- calls out over his shoulder.
ALGREN
Mr. Graham, tell this man to fire
at me.
GRAHAM
Excuse me -- ?
Algren unholsters his Colt as he walks.
ALGREN
Tell him, if he does not shoot me,
I am going to kill him with my
third round.
GANT
Captain, if we might have a
word...
Algren stops, turns, raises his REVOLVER and FIRES. It
WHISTLES past the young recruit's ear. Everyone freezes.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 10/1/02 30.
34 CONTINUED: (3) 34
ALGREN
Tell him.
Graham hurriedly translates. The young recruit's eyes
widen in disbelief. The other recruits hastily back
away.
Algren now leans casually against the target.
ALGREN
Fire, damn it.
He aims his REVOLVER and FIRES again. This time it
knocks the conical hat off the poor recruit's head. In
fear for his life, the boy drops his ramrod, shoulders
his weapon. Still he cannot bring himself to fire.
Algren cocks his weapon once more and aims at the boy.
Finally, in abject terror, the recruit squeezes the
trigger. A bright orange flash and a cloud of blackpowder
smoke.
Algren is untouched.
Just as casually, he heads back toward Bagley and Omura,
touching the boy's shoulder as he passes.
ALGREN
They're not ready.
Omura and Bagley can only stare at him incredulously.
Algren walks away.
BAGLEY
The regiment leaves at six A.M.
35 EXT. TOKYO - DAY 35
The Imperial Army leaves Tokyo.
35A EXT. SEA COAST - DAY 35A
The Imperial Army marches along the shoreline.
36 EXT. RUINED VILLAGE - DAY 36
A STEAM ENGINE waits as Algren, Graham, Bagley, and
Hasegawa lead the army past a traditional village being
torn aside for the railroad.
(CONTINUED)
31.
36 CONTINUED: 36
Houses are leveled and guards herd the displaced
villagers. Algren notes the Omura symbol on the new
water tower and on the headbands of the guards. Omura's
bodyguard oversees the guards' work.
ALGREN
What is that sign?
GRAHAM
It's the symbol for Omura. His
zaitbatsu is one of the family
businesses that own everything
worth owning.
ALGREN
Omura owns all of this?
GRAHAM
As soon as he can get rid of the
samurai.
Algren rides past villagers kneeling before a destroyed
Buddhist temple.
37 EXT. MOUNTAIN PASS - DAY 37
The Imperial Army winds its way up a steep mountain pass.
Along the trail are a series of pikes with SEVERED HEADS
on top.
GRAHAM
Samurai road sign. "No
Trespassing."
37A EXT. MOUNTAIN FOREST - MORNING 37A
The Imperial Army enters a deep forest.
38 EXT. MOUNTAIN FOREST - MORNING 38
A thick fog is beginning to descend. Everything is
creepy. Imminent. Algren looks around, instantly wary.
ALGREN
Form a firing line. I want two
squads up on that high ground,
NOW!
Algren is instantly in motion, barking orders as he rides
the line.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/8/03 32.
38 CONTINUED: 38
ALGREN
Sergeant Gant, deploy skirmishers.
(wheels on his horse)
I need a second line ready to fill
in on my command!
The Japanese Officer follows behind, relaying his
commands. Bagley doesn't like how the engagement is
shaping up.
BAGLEY
Captain Algren, we're not here as
combatants.
ALGREN
Then who's going to lead these
men?
BAGLEY
Their own officers, for Christ's
sake. Let's get to the rear.
ALGREN
We'll be there presently.
BAGLEY
Mr. Graham, you will accompany me
to the rear.
GRAHAM
Of course.
Bagley leaves the front lines with Graham in tow. Gant
watches.
GANT
And, Captain-darlin', if you don't
mind I'll be takin' a wee nap...
All is SILENT. Algren looks around. Sees Gant grimly
checking his rifle.
ALGREN
Mr. Gant. Report to the rear and
see to the disposition of the
supply train.
Gant acts as if he has not heard Algren.
ALGREN
Mr. Gant. Did you hear my order?
(CONTINUED)
33.
38 CONTINUED: (2) 38
GANT
I heard it.
ALGREN
Then you will obey it.
Gant looks at him. In Algren's eyes he can see the
gravity of their situation.
ALGREN
Zeb, get out of here. NOW.
GANT
Intending no disrespect, sir, but
shove it up your arse.
A DISTANT RUMBLE of HORSES, building through the fog,
breaks the moment. Then the sound of DRUMS. The
Japanese soldiers are literally shaking in fear.
Algren peers again into the fog. Nothing.
Then the sound abruptly stops. A silence broken only by
the murmured prayers of some of the soldiers.
ALGREN
Fix bayonets.
GANT
FIX... BAYONETS!
ALGREN
Firing positions.
GANT
Assume firing positions.
His order is translated. One row kneels, the other
stands behind them. Algren can see nothing through the
dense fog. The tension is unbearable.
Then a FORM APPEARS on horseback... GHOSTLY... like some
sort of medieval monster. A horned helmet. Like
something from a nightmare.
And then another figure, and another.
ALGREN
Hold the line... hold the line...
(CONTINUED)
34.
38 CONTINUED: (3) 38
The order is translated. A terrible, beautiful moment of
absolute stasis.
The Samurai suddenly CHARGE, emerging from the fog in a
great wave -- roaring out ancient war-cries that chill
the blood -- sweeping forward like a tsunami -- swords
and spears flashing --
ALGREN
FIRE!
The volley TEARS into the Samurai, knocking down men and
horses -- but still they come, undaunted.
ALGREN
RELOAD AND FIRE AT WILL!
The Japanese troops try to reload their single shot
rifles -- but many fumble at the task, panic and run.
Chaos.
ALGREN
HOLD THE LINE, DAMN IT!
Too late -- the Samurai are on them --
They attack with an intensity few have ever seen -- many
of the Japanese soldiers try to escape, turning and
running in blind panic -- they are butchered -- run
through by the ashigaru, run through by the naginata.
Those soldiers who try to reload are mowed down by clouds
of samurai arrows. A samurai in YELLOW ARMOR gallops
past, firing steadily from horseback. His name is
NOBUTADA and his control and speed are astounding.
Gant uses his Winchester with deadly accuracy. Algren
uses his REVOLVER -- FIRING as he turns on his horse --
when the revolver is empty he pulls his cavalry saber.
He parries the lethal blows as the Samurai hurtle past --
And then the Samurai attack from behind! Soldiers flee.
Algren calls out orders but all discipline is gone -- it
is every man for himself.
Suddenly, a Samurai, wearing BLACK ARMOR, slams into
Algren's horse, sending both horse and rider to the
ground.
(CONTINUED)
35.
38 CONTINUED: (4) 38
Algren scrambles to his feet, his saber nowhere to be
found as another rider heads toward him carrying a lance.
Algren wrestles the lance from his grip, throws the rider
to the ground, and runs him through. Gant SHOOTS another
who is about to spear Algren.
In the midst of battle one samurai, wearing a BLACK FACEPIECE,
is just sitting on his horse. He watches Algren
fight.
Algren now wields the lance to battle the horsemen as
they sweep past. He spears one and then unseats another.
When a third samurai cuts his lance in half, Algren uses
the remaining half as a club to take him down.
Gant, meanwhile, is slashed by the horseman in BLOOD RED
ARMOR. Algren sees his friend, dazed and helpless on the
ground, and tries desperately to fight his way to the
rescue. But it's too late. The Samurai dismounts,
raises his sword, and impales Gant on the ground.
Algren is attacked from behind. He whirls, just in time
to parry the blow. The Masked Samurai continues to watch
him. Algren fights with heroic passion, refusing to give
an inch, long after those around him have fled.
It has become a rout. Those who flee are run down like
prey.
Left alone, Algren finds himself confronted by
ashigaru!-- samurai foot soldiers carrying pikes. He
turns to discover his retreat cut off by other samuraiwielding
katana -- the lethal long sword.
But rather than seek any quarter, Algren launches an
attack. He kills one samurai before he is STABBED in
the shoulder, by a lance.
In agony, Algren fights on. He parries a blow -- which
grazes his scalp. Blood flows down his face.
Algren is surrounded by samurai. A man's heroic stand
against certain death is of great interest to them. As
they begin to close in, Algren whirls the lance, a
tattered battle-flag with TIGER INSIGNIA still dangling
from the end.
The MASKED SAMURAI removes his mask. It is the JAPANESE
MAN (MORI KATSUMOTO) whose dream of the tiger we glimpsed
at the beginning of the story. His eyes widen in
surprise, he watches his dream come to life -- the white
tiger holding the men at bay.
(CONTINUED)
36.
38 CONTINUED: (5) 38
In SLOW MOTION Algren whirls the lance, as the samurai in
the blood-red armor, advances. With a murderous smile,
the man draws his katana.
Algren seems spent -- he drops to one knee, swaying, on
the brink of losing consciousness. But as the RED
SAMURAI lets out a battle cry and propels himself forward
for the death blow -- Algren suddenly LEAPS UP and
propels the jagged wooden end of the broken lance into
the unprotected throat of his attacker.
As the samurai falls, the rest of his comrades close in
to cut Algren off.
A harsh COMMAND stops them in their tracks. The Masked
Samurai leaps from his horse. Everyone steps aside
deferentially as he looks down at Algren.
Sensing that he is about to die, Algren gets to his
knees, and tries to swing his saber, but like lightning,
Katsumoto draws his sword and cuts it in two.
Katsumoto looks down at Algren, who now awaits certain
death. Instead, Katsumoto barks an order. Rough hands
lift Algren to his feet.
As Algren is being led away, he sees samurai calmly
walking among the wounded, killing them with a single
stroke.
And then he sees General Hasegawa standing alone, his
sword sheathed, his head lowered. He is unhurt.
Katsumoto walks over to Hasegawa. A few words are
exchanged. Katsumoto bows his head in respect, seems to
agree to something.
General Hasegawa kneels and pulls out a small blade.
Quietly and with great ceremony, he opens his uniform,
then wraps a clean handkerchief around the blade so he
can grasp it, backwards, facing his belly.
Closing his eyes, General Hasegawa calmly and
deliberately plunges the knife into his stomach.
Algren watches, stunned, as Katsumoto arcs his sword
toward his friend's bowed head.
It is seppuku -- the traditional form of samurai suicide.
Algren passes out, his wounds overcoming him.
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 10/9/02 37.
39 EXT. MOUNTAIN PASS - DAY 39
Algren is unconscious, tied to a horse. The samurai
climb a steep pass, disappearing into the soaring
mountains.
40 EXT. VILLAGE - DUSK 40
Algren's horse is led in by Katsumoto and his samurai.
This is the other Japan. The Japan we have not yet seen.
After the turmoil of Tokyo, this place seems a bucolic
paradise. A valley below with rice fields. The sense of
harmony so markedly absent from the cities.
As they ride in, villagers gather to greet their lord and
to stare in wonder and hostility at the white stranger.
Algren, barely conscious, is lifted from his horse.
Katsumoto approaches.
KATSUMOTO
What is your name?
Algren looks at him and refuses to answer.
Ujio -- the grim samurai who cut off the man's head in
the street -- races forward and SCREAMS at Algren in
Japanese.
UJIO
(subtitles)
You insolent swine! Answer! You,
speak!
Algren doesn't move. Ujio paces back and forth like a
caged panther spitting invective at Algren.
Algren doesn't move. He watches Ujio evenly. This takes
incredible will.
SUDDENLY -- Ujio draws his long sword -- it slashes
through the air -- the blade singing -- and stops an inch
away from Algren's face!
Algren doesn't move.
Ujio brings the cutting edge into contact with Algren's
cheek. Blood runs where even this feather-light touch
cuts Algren's skin. Algren doesn't move.
Katsumoto speaks.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/15/03 38.
40 CONTINUED: 40
KATSUMOTO
(subtitles)
Leave him be.
Ujio sheathes his sword and walks away. Katsumoto looks
at Algren deeply, gauging him.
KATSUMOTO
This is my son's village. You
cannot escape. We are deep in the
mountains and winter is coming.
Katsumoto walks away. Nobutada smiles at him.
NOBUTADA
(proud of his
only English)
Jolly good.
Algren watches Katsumoto walk off with his men toward an
imposing edifice that rises in the distant hills above.
Then he blacks out.
41 INT. TAKA'S HOUSE - NIGHT 41
Algren's eyes open...
A WOMAN is leaning close, her eyes intent on the task of
sewing up his wound. She is beautiful, but he is not
really conscious enough to notice, or even feel the pain.
He blacks out again.
We DISCOVER someone else in the room. KATSUMOTO squats
nearby, peering at Algren's inert form, trying to fathom
this strange fulfillment of his prophecy. Laid out
before him are Algren's personal effects. Katsumoto
studies them, then picks up the buckskin bag containing
Algren's journals.
41A EXT. TAKA'S HOUSE PORCH - DAY (RAINING) 41A
The Silent Samurai stands guard on the porch.
42 INT. TAKA'S HOUSE - ANOTHER DAY 42
Algren wakes again. Outside, it is raining. His
injuries are such that he can barely move.
A ten-year-old BOY appears in the doorway. He stares at
Algren with open hostility. This is HIGEN. He turns and
walks away.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/31/03 39.
42 CONTINUED: 42
Algren blacks out.
42A OMITTED 42A
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/31/03 39A.
43 INT. TAKA'S HOUSE - NIGHT 43
Algren's eyes open...
Through the archway Algren can see Higen and his fouryear-
old brother, MAGOJIRO, horsing around.
The beautiful WOMAN who earlier was stitching his wound
enters, crosses to them with a tray. She says one word
and the boys instantly obey.
TAKA
(subtitles)
Be quiet.
Algren watches as she serves food to her sons.
She seems to sense him. Her eyes raise, meet his, then
turn away. Her expression is opaque.
43A EXT. KATSUMOTO'S COMPOUND - DUSK 43A
Katsumoto lives in an ancient wooden compound of sweeping
tile roofs of Chinese influence. Snow-capped mountains
soar in the distance. He steps onto a covered porch and
looks out over the sleeping village below.
44 EXT. TAKA'S HOUSE - DUSK 44
The silent guard now sits on the porch of Taka's house,
oblivious to the comings and goings around him.
44A EXT. TAKA'S HOUSE - DAY 44A
The silent guard still keeps watch on Taka's porch.
45 INT. TAKA'S HOUSE - SAME 45
The woman is changing the dressing on Algren's wound
beneath his robe. NOBUTADA appears. He kneels beside
Algren.
NOBUTADA
(to Taka; subtitles)
He's in bad shape.
Algren has no idea what Nobutada is saying. He interrupts
with the only Japanese word he has bothered to learn:
ALGREN
Sake.
Nobutada's face breaks into a wide smile.
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/15/03 40.
45 CONTINUED: (A1) 45
NOBUTADA
Sake?
ALGREN
Sake.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/8/03 40A.
45 CONTINUED: 45
Nobutada glances to the woman. She nods, and leaves.
NOBUTADA
(subtitles)
Taka will take care of you. How
are you feeling?
[ALT:]
ALGREN
[Sake.]
NOBUTADA
(subtitles)
Yes. Sake.
Taka returns bringing Algren a cup of sake. He drinks it
down, the cup falling from his hand.
Algren takes the jug out of her hand. Nobutada laughs as
Algren drinks it down.
45A OMITTED 45A
46 INT. KATSUMOTO'S CHAMBER - NIGHT 46
By the light of an oil lamp, Katsumoto studies Algren's
journals.
ALGREN (V.O.)
"November 26, 1868. The Washita
River. For twelve years I have
done nothing but carry out my
orders to the best of my ability."
47 EXT. VILLAGE - NIGHT 47
The guard sits silently, vigilantly, on duty.
ALGREN (V.O.)
"Tomorrow, if I do what is asked
of me as a soldier-- "
47A INT. TAKA'S HOUSE - PORCH - DAY (SEE SLATE C47) 47A
Algren sits hunched in a corner, convulsed with
shivering. His withdrawal from alcohol, his isolation
and his imagined sins are devouring him.
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/24/03 41.
47B FLASHBACK - THE WASHITA RIVER 47B
The line of cavalry descends on the sleeping village.
Algren imperceptibly begins to slow his horse, separating
himself from the group. Gant realizes.
In the distance, the first shots are fired, and the
pandemonium of slaughter that slowly engulfs the village
can only be seen from afar.
GANT
... Captain?
Algren takes a grim breath, then as if his body weighed a
thousand pounds, turns slowly to Gant and the two of them
join the attack.
47C INT. TAKA'S HOUSE - CONTINUOUS 47C
Just outside his room, Nobutada whispers to Taka.
NOBUTADA
(subtitles)
Let him drink sake, Aunt.
TAKA
(subtitles)
No. [That will not do.]
NOBUTADA
(subtitles)
This is my village.
TAKA
(subtitles)
This is my house.
She crosses to Algren's room and closes the door.
48 INT. TAKA'S HOUSE - NIGHT 48
Algren lies on his mat, his eyes open and unfocused. He
tries to drink from his flask, but it's empty.
ALGREN (V.O.)
"-- I will destroy everything I
believe as a man."
49 OMITTED 49
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/15/03 42.
49A FLASHBACK - THE WASHITA RIVER 49A
Smoke from burning teepees clouds the air as Algren
slowly walks among the ruined village. Bodies and
animals are strewn about.
GANT
Captain, we're movin' out.
(watches him)
Captain... It was orders.
Beside a teepee, Algren sees A YOUNG BOY, not unlike
Higen, holding the body of his dead mother. The boy's
eyes blaze with hatred.
50 BACK IN THE HOUSE 50
The woman is asleep in her room. A piercing SCREAM
shatters the night.
51 EXT. VILLAGE - FOLLOWING 51
The guard leaps to his feet. Lamps are lit around the
village...
52 INT. TAKA'S HOUSE - FOLLOWING 52
The guard and the woman hurry in. Algren is disoriented.
The woman crosses to him, kneeling at his side. Algren
lunges, grabbing her.
ALGREN
Sake! Sake!
She stares at him, the breath being squeezed out of her,
not even a whisper of fear in her eyes.
ALGREN
(mumbling to himself)
Sake...
Shaken, he lets her go, and crumples to the floor.
ALGREN
Give it to me. Please...
She gently touches him.
53 INT. THE PORCH OF KATSUMOTO'S COMPOUND - DAY 53
Ujio stands with Katsumoto. Nobutada listens attentively.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/31/03 43.
53 CONTINUED: 53
UJIO
(subtitles)
My lord, why do you spare the
barbarian? He is shamed in
defeat, he should kill himself.
KATSUMOTO
(subtitles)
That is not their custom.
UJIO
(subtitles)
Then I will kill him.
NOBUTADA
(subtitles)
Father, I don't think --
Katsumoto flashes him a look. Nobutada is too young to
have an opinion.
KATSUMOTO
(subtitles)
Ujio, there will be plenty of
killing to come. For now we will
learn about the men we will face
in battle. Keep him alive.
54
thru
57
OMITTED 54
thru
57
58 EXT. TAKA'S HOUSE - DAY 58
A week has passed. The guard still sits out front.
Villagers pass.
59 INT. TAKA'S HOUSE - SAME 59
Daylight streams in, finding Algren lying on his back.
The worst of the detox is past. As he lies there, SOUNDS
from outside draw him:
60 EXT. TAKA'S HOUSE - MORNING 60
The guard stands up warily as Algren comes out onto the
porch, blinking in the sunlight. Algren looks at the
guard, sees his boots, puts them on.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/15/03 44.
60 CONTINUED: 60
ALGREN
Good morning.
(no response)
Fine, and you?
Still no response. Algren takes a step off the porch,
waiting to be stopped. He isn't. He walks on. The
guard follows.
61 EXT. VILLAGE - DAY 61
Algren walks through the village, his guard following at
a respectful distance.
This is the first time he really sees the splendor of the
setting, and the simple beauty of village life: children
chase each other, clothes are washed in the river, and in
the rice fields below, farmers squat as they have for
thousands of years.
In his hut, the swordsmith hammers and folds the blade.
Algren turns to the grim samurai who follows silently
behind him.
ALGREN
So what's your name? Name.
Namai?
(no response)
You have a name, don't you?
...You have no idea what I'm
saying, do you?
On a nearby hillside, the samurai train. Algren watches.
Part sacred ritual, part martial preparation, they
combine athletic prowess and graceful artistry into one
effortless whole.
Kendo, ("The Way of the Sword") masters practice with
their wooden swords. We see Higen, and other boys his
age, working hard. Higen is reprimanded harshly for an
incorrect move.
UJIO
(subtitles)
No, not that way! Raise your arms
higher.
Algren stares at the boy.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/15/03 45.
61 CONTINUED: 61
UJIO
(subtitles)
Lower your hips!
NAKAO, a mountain of a man, is a Jujitsu master. He
stands unarmed, four samurai facing him. They attack
with wooden swords. He effortlessly defeats them -- the
agility of the huge man is shocking.
Kyudo ("The Way of the Bow") masters use their bows for
target practice. Nobutada holds a bundle of arrows. In
the distance, a line of plums. Algren watches. Nobutada
just seems to stand there, his eyes half-open.
And then -- in a stunning blaze of movement -- Nobutada
fires the arrows -- one after another, amazingly fast --
cleanly hitting each plum. The final arrow splits the
previous one as it buries itself in the tree.
62
&
62A
OMITTED 62
&
62A
63 INT. SMALL ROOM - DAY 63
Algren opens a sliding shojii screen and discovers a
small room that has been made into a shrine. Candles and
incense burn but Algren's eyes are drawn to what seems
like an apparition standing in the corner.
The BRIGHT RED ARMOR of the warrior Algren killed in the
fog, is held upright by an unseen stand. It is almost as
if the dead warrior himself is staring back at him.
Algren senses someone behind him, and turns. The woman
is looking at the mud Algren has tracked across the
pristine tatami mats. Algren looks down at his muddy
boots, then back at the woman. She turns and walks away.
Nobutada appears with the Silent Samurai. He speaks to
Algren in Japanese, gesturing toward the door.
NOBUTADA
(subtitles)
Over there. Go. You. Go. You.
Algren allows himself to be led out.
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/20/03 46.
64 EXT. VILLAGE - DAY 64
Algren follows the Silent Samurai through the village.
ALGREN
So where are we going?
(listens)
We're not going to a bar, by any
chance... Sake?
(shakes his head)
We're not going to San Francisco,
by any chance? ...Forget it.
65 EXT. KATSUMOTO'S COMPOUND - DAY 65
The Silent Samurai leads Algren into the compound.
ALGREN
You're one hell of a
conversationalist, aren't you? Do
you talk at all? Or was it
something I said?
(no response
I know why you don't talk. You
don't talk because you're angry.
You're angry because they make you
wear a dress.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/20/03 46A.
65 CONTINUED: 65
Without a word, Algren is led up the steps, where a
sixteen-foot-tall gold Buddha looms out of the darkness.
Katsumoto speaks out of the shadows.
KATSUMOTO
This temple was built by my family
a thousand years ago. My name is
Katsumoto. What is your name?
(no answer)
Are my words not correct?
(still no answer)
I will practice my English with
you.
ALGREN
You will?
KATSUMOTO
If you would honor me.
They look at each other for a long moment.
ALGREN
You kept me alive just to speak
English...
Katsumoto just stares at him.
ALGREN
Then what do you want?
KATSUMOTO
To know my enemy.
Algren is dumbstruck. These are his own words.
ALGREN
I saw what you do to your enemies.
KATSUMOTO
The soldiers in your country do
not kill?
ALGREN
We don't cut the heads off
defeated men on their knees.
KATSUMOTO
General Hasegawa asked me to help
him end his life. A Samurai
cannot stand the shame of defeat.
I was honored to cut off his head.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 10/25/02 47.
65 CONTINUED: (1A) 65
Algren shakes his head at the incomprehensibility of
these people.
KATSUMOTO
Many of our customs seem strange
to you. The same is true of
yours. For example, not to
introduce yourself is considered
extremely rude, even among
enemies.
Algren watches Katsumoto for a moment.
ALGREN
Nathan Algren.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 10/9/02 47A.
65 CONTINUED: (2) 65
KATSUMOTO
(bows)
I am honored to meet you. I have
enjoyed this conversation in your
English.
ALGREN
I have questions.
KATSUMOTO
I have introduced myself, you have
introduced yourself. This is a
very good conversation.
ALGREN
I have questions.
Katsumoto stops and turns back to Algren.
KATSUMOTO
Questions come later.
ALGREN
Who was the warrior in the red
armor?
Katsumoto stops, considers, relents.
KATSUMOTO
My brother-in-law. Hirotaro.
ALGREN
And the woman who cares for me?
Katsumoto understands that Algren has no idea how
disrespectful he is being to someone of Katsumoto's rank
and authority.
KATSUMOTO
My sister, Hirotaro's wife. Her
name is Taka.
ALGREN
(incredulous)
I killed her husband?
KATSUMOTO
It was a good death.
Katsumoto walks away.
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/8/03 48.
66 INT. TAKA'S HOUSE - DAY 66
Algren enters the house. As he walks forward, we see he
has taken his boots off. He sees the family seated at
dinner. Nobutada notices and crosses to him.
NOBUTADA
(subtitles)
You! Come... Please...
Nobutada leads Algren to the table and pushes him gently
to his knees.
Taka treats him with utter politeness. His guilt over
what he has learned is overwhelming. He cannot even
bring himself to look at her. She hands him a bowl of
rice.
Only when she isn't looking does he glance at her for any
sign of the animosity she must feel.
TAKA
(subtitles)
He is vile. And smells like the
pigs. Tell my brother I cannot
stand this one minute longer.
NOBUTADA
(to Taka, subtitles)
Why don't you tell him?
They look at each other in ironic sympathy.
TAKA
(subtitles)
At least make him take a bath.
Nobutada laughs.
67 EXT. VILLAGE - BATHING TUB - DAY 67
Nobutada, the Silent Samurai, and Algren are at a
rotenburo, a hot mineral spring in a secluded part of the
village. Algren sits in the water.
Nobutada moves to the edge of the water as a Japanese
grandmother slowly approaches to bathe.
NOBUTADA
(subtitles)
Feels good, doesn't it? Good for
the shoulder. Jolly good.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/18/03 49.
67 CONTINUED: (A1) 67
Nobutada, unconcerned, chats pleasantly, remarking on
Algren's old battle wounds.
NOBUTADA
(subtitles)
Nice and warm? How is it? See,
heals the scars quickly.
The grandmother arrives at the bath. Nobutada rises and
bows.
NOBUTADA
(subtitles)
Granny, hello.
Algren's discomfort turns to outright alarm when a
toothless old grandmother appears and joins him in the
tub!
NOBUTADA
(subtitles)
You are strong to bear them.
Algren sinks a little lower into the water. The old
grandmother smiles at him with her toothless grin.
GRANDMOTHER
(to Algren)
Konichiwa.
Nabutada laughs.
68 EXT. VILLAGE - DAY - RAINING 68
Algren, in uniform, walks back with Nobutada and his
samurai shadow.
Higen and another boy run past training with wooden
swords. As Algren approaches them, Nobutada watches his
cousin proudly, murmuring details of his prowess to
Algren, who has no idea what he's talking about.
NOBUTADA
(subtitles)
They may be children, but they are
strong.
Higen is deadly serious. He spars with another boy,
deftly knocking the wooden sword from his hands.
The boys immediately stop.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/18/03 49A.
68 CONTINUED: 68
Algren bends and picks the sword up, offering it back to
Higen's friend, but the boy backs away shaking his head.
Nobutada watches in amusement, then encourages Algren in
Higen's direction.
NOBUTADA
(to Algren)
Try... Try...
Algren shakes his head politely, but Higen is ready to
attack.
Algren dodges one thrust, then parries another. For a
little boy, Higen is remarkably dangerous and quick.
And, of course, his attack is fueled by rage.
Ujio approaches, barks a command in Japanese.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/18/03 50.
68 CONTINUED: 68
UJIO
(subtitles)
Put down that sword.
Suddenly, everyone goes silent. Higen backs away.
Algren turns.
Ujio is standing behind him, wooden sword in hand.
It's obvious to Algren what he must mean, but Algren does
nothing.
Ujio approaches Algren slowly. Algren holds the wooden
sword casually, only his eyes betraying the tension of
the moment.
Ujio's wooden sword FLASHES, quicker than the eye can
follow. Algren's sword is knocked from his hands, then,
somehow in the same fluid movement, Ujio brings the sword
around and cracks Algren across the chest hard enough to
knock the breath from his body and send him to his knees.
Higen's friend goes running off toward Taka's house.
Algren staggers back to his feet.
Again Ujio's SWORD FLASHES. Algren parries one blow
before he is cracked across the face. Blood flows from
his nose.
Ujio knocks Algren's legs out from under him, and while
Algren is sprawling on the ground, Ujio kicks Algren's
sword out of his hand, and starts away.
Satisfied with himself, Ujio walks away, but the
expressions of the bystanders cause him to turn back:
Algren is standing again, holding the sword.
Nearby, Taka watches with interest. There is some
atavistic satisfaction in seeing Algren physically
punished.
Higen also watches closely.
The Silent Samurai merely stares at Algren as Ujio spins
kicks him in the stomach, followed by a blow to the shin.
Algren is swept off his feet face down in the mud.
Gasping for breath, at least one rib broken, Algren
writhes on the ground. He tries to push himself up, but
Ujio slams this sword across Algren's back. He hits the
ground again grasping for his sword.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/24/03 51.
68 CONTINUED: (2) 68
The ever-enlarging crowd gasps as Algren once again
struggles to get up, swiping his sword at Ujio. This
time without hesitation, Ujio grabs his waving sword,
pulling Algren up onto his feet.
Ujio delivers the final blows upon Algren's now
defenseless body. First the shoulder, then finally the
head.
Something begins to change in Taka's regard. Her
appetite for vengeance is not as great as she might have
imagined. Higen, too, finds himself reluctantly
impressed by Algren's determination.
Algren hits the ground, unconscious, dropping the sword
as he falls. Ujio reaches down, picks up the sword,
throws it to Higen before walking away.
69 OMITTED 69
70 EXT. KATSUMOTO'S COMPOUND - DAY 70
Fall. Algren is led in by the silent guard. He limps a
bit.
ALGREN
I really want to thank you for
looking out for me yesterday.
That's your job, right, protecting
me? Good job, Bob.
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/24/03 52.
70 CONTINUED: 70
ALGREN (CONT'D)
You don't mind if I call you Bob,
do you? I knew a Bob once, but he
was ugly. You're a handsome young
devil. You a ladies man, Bob?
71 EXT. KATSUMOTO'S COMPOUND - DAY 71
Algren discovers Katsumoto waiting.
KATSUMOTO
Ujio is teaching you the way of
the Japanese sword.
ALGREN
Is that what he's doing?
KATSUMOTO
You fought against your red
Indians?
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/8/03 52A.
71 CONTINUED: 71
ALGREN
... Yes?
KATSUMOTO
I have read about this. Tell me
of your part in them.
ALGREN
Why?
KATSUMOTO
I wish to learn.
ALGREN
Read a book.
KATSUMOTO
I would rather have a good
conversation.
ALGREN
Why?
KATSUMOTO
Because we are both students of
war.
(looks at him)
So you were the General of your
army?
Algren shakes his head, relenting.
ALGREN
No, I was a Captain.
KATSUMOTO
This is a low rank?
ALGREN
(almost smiles)
No. It's a middle rank. I was
tactical liaison to the tribal
chiefs.
KATSUMOTO
Ah. And who was your General?
ALGREN
Don't you have a rebellion to
lead?
KATSUMOTO
People in your country do not like
conversation?
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 10/9/02 53.
71 CONTINUED: (2) 71
ALGREN
He was a Lieutenant Colonel. His
name was Custer.
KATSUMOTO
I know this name.
(Algren looks at him)
He killed many warriors.
ALGREN
(a beat)
Yes. Many warriors.
KATSUMOTO
So he was a good general.
ALGREN
No. He was arrogant and
foolhardy. And he got massacred
after splitting his command and
taking a single company against
5,000 angry braves.
KATSUMOTO
5,000 Indians. How many men for
Custer?
ALGREN
211.
KATSUMOTO
I like this General Custer.
ALGREN
He was a murderer who fell in love
with his own legend and his
troopers died for it.
KATSUMOTO
I think this was a very good
death.
ALGREN
Well maybe you can have one just
like it someday.
KATSUMOTO
If it is my destiny.
Algren looks at him, utterly confounded by his blithe
attitude toward death.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 10/9/02 54.
71 CONTINUED: (3) 71
ALGREN
Look, what do you want from me?
KATSUMOTO
What do you want for yourself?
ALGREN
What are you doing, why are we
having these 'conversations'?
What the hell am I doing here?
KATSUMOTO
In Spring the snows will melt and
the passes will open, and the
events of the world will unfold.
Until that time, you are here.
Good day, Captain.
Katsumoto stands, bows, and leaves.
72
thru
74
OMITTED 72
thru
74
75 EXT. VILLAGE - TAKA'S HOUSE - ANOTHER DAY 75
Algren sits on the porch in the rain.
75A INT. KATSUMOTO'S COMPOUND - DAY - RAINING 75A
Katsumoto continues reading Algren's journal.
ALGREN (V.O.)
November 30, 1868. The Dakota
Territories. I am sickened by my
life. There is no choice now but
to leave the army.
75B EXT. VILLAGE - DUSK - RAINING 75B
Algren watches the swordsmith work on the blade.
ALGREN (V.O.)
For twenty years I have rarely
slept in a bed and most never in a
house. The regiment is the
closest thing to a family I have
known.
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/20/03 55.
75C EXT. VILLAGE - DAY 75C
Algren studies the Samurai as they train. We see almost
imperceptible movement of his head as he analyzes their
technique.
ALGREN (V.O.)
Such skills that I possess concern
themselves with the bloody arts
and have no place in polite
society. Who will I be when I am
no longer a soldier?
75CA EXT. VILLAGE - HILLSIDE - DUSK 75CA
Higen walks, alone, in the long grass.
75D
&
75E
OMITTED 75D
&
75E
75F EXT. VILLAGE - DAY 75F
Autumn. Katsumoto watches Ujio train the men. A sudden
movement of their eyes causes Ujio to stop. He turns to
find:
Algren, at the end of the line, holding a wooden sword.
An imperceptible look passes between Ujio and Katsumoto,
but Ujio's resentment is overruled. Ujio crosses to
Algren and begins sparring with him. Algren does his
best to follow as Ujio continues.
Katsumoto, the slightest hint of a smile on his face,
walks away.
75G INT. TAKA'S HOUSE - DAY 75G
Higen sits, laboring over a scroll. Algren enters
holding a Japanese notebook and sits close to him.
Higen looks up. Algren indicates that he wants pen and
paper.
ALGREN
Pencil... [Pen...]
(gesturing)
For me... Write.
Higen hesitates, then gives it to him.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/24/03 56.
75G CONTINUED: 75G
HIGEN
En pitsu.
ALGREN
En pitsu... en pitsu. Arrigato.
Algren begins to write as Higen watches him.
Algren notes Higen's curiosity and does a trick extending
his arm. Then he pretends his thumb has been severed.
ALGREN (V.O.)
1876, day unknown, month unknown.
I continue to live among these
extraordinary people.
Taka enters with Magojiro.
TAKA
Higen.
Higen is pleased until Taka calls him away.
75H EXT. VILLAGE - DUSK 75H
Ujio practices alone on a hilltop.
ALGREN (V.O.)
From the moment they wake, they
devote themselves to the perfection
of whatever they pursue -- I have
never seen such discipline.
75J EXT. VILLAGE - DAY 75J
Nobutada practices archery.
ALGREN (V.O.)
And yet I am confounded by their
contradictions, savagery followed
by mildness.
75JA OMITTED 75JA
75K INT./EXT. TAKA'S HOUSE - DAY 75K
Ujio instructs Higen in the tea ceremony.
75L INT. TAKA'S HOUSE - SHRINE ROOM - DAY (ALSO SLATE A83) 75L
Algren passes the open screen door and sees Higen
kneeling before his father's armor.
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/3/03 AA56A.
76 OMITTED 76
76A INT. TAKA'S HOUSE - DAY 76A
Algren steps out of his room dressed in a Japanese
hakama. The wide pants worn by all samurai warriors are
a puzzle of strips and straps. Algren checks to see if
anyone is looking then begins to imitate a series of kata
moves.
Higen enters and watches him. Algren suddenly realizes
he is not alone. Embarrassed, he bows to Higen.
ALGREN (V.O.)
I have decided to do what I can to
learn their ways.
76B OMITTED 76B
76BA INT. TAKA'S HOUSE - NIGHT 76BA
Algren kneels at the table with the rest of the family.
They eat in silence.
ALGREN
(subtitles)
Thank you. More rice?
They stop, shocked. He has spoken Japanese! Nobutada
calls for Taka to serve him more rice, then begins
yammering enthusiastically in Japanese.
NOBUTADA
(subtitles)
Taka, let him eat more. Eat a
lot. Don't be polite. We have
all the rice in the world.
Algren holds up his hand.
ALGREN
Not so fast!
(holds up
chopsticks)
What is this?
NOBUTADA
Hashi.
ALGREN
Hashi.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/31/03 A56A.
76BA CONTINUED: 76BA
Nobutada is hysterical with glee now.
NOBUTADA
Hai!!
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/31/03 B56A.
76BA CONTINUED: 76BA
Nobutada points to various objects, giving the Japanese
words for each. Magojiro joins in. Higen watches, still
removed.
MAGOJIRO
(subtitles)
Nose! Ears!
NOBUTADA
(subtitles)
Top knot! This is my top knot.
MAGOJIRO
(subtitles)
Mouth! Teeth! Tongue!
NOBUTADA
(subtitles)
All samurai must wear a top knot!
HIGEN
(subtitles)
How can he understand?
MAGOJIRO
(subtitles)
Tongue! Tongue!
NOBUTADA
(subtitles)
Do you understand?
HIGEN
(subtitles)
He can't understand. That's
enough.
MAGOJIRO
(subtitles)
TONGUE!
HIGEN
(subtitles)
Be quiet.
Algren points to himself.
ALGREN
Algren.
NOBUTADA
All-gren.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/24/03 56A.
76BA CONTINUED: (2) 76BA
Algren smiles, and Magojiro laughs, saying "All-gren!"
over and over again. Algren bows, then points to them
all in turn.
ALGREN
Nobutada. Magojiro. Higen.
(turns to Taka)
Taka.
She meets his eye for the slightest moment, then looks
down and walks away.
76BB EXT. TAKA'S HOUSE - DAY 76BB
Katsumoto is in heated conversation with Taka.
TAKA
(subtitles)
Brother, please make him leave. I
cannot stand it.
KATSUMOTO
(subtitles)
Is he so repulsive?
TAKA
(subtitles)
The shame is unbearable. I ask
your permission to end my life.
KATSUMOTO
(harsh; subtitles)
You will do as you are told!
She bows her head deferentially.
KATSUMOTO
(subtitles)
Would you rather I kill him to
avenge your husband?
TAKA
(subtitles)
... Yes.
KATSUMOTO
(subtitles)
Hirotaro died in battle. He tried
to kill the American, and he was
defeated. It was Karma.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/24/03 57.
76BB CONTINUED: 76BB
TAKA
(subtitles)
I know. Forgive my weakness.
KATSUMOTO
(softens his tone;
subtitles)
There must be some reason why he's
here with us.
(beat)
It's God's will.
Suddenly, they look up as Algren emerges from the house.
Taka lowers her eyes, bows, and heads inside. Algren
watches her go.
ALGREN
She has been very kind to care for
me.
KATSUMOTO
She is honored to have my guest in
her house.
Katsumoto walks away.
76C EXT. VILLAGE - DAY 76C
Algren trains with Ujio and the others in the snow.
Nobutada and Higen are watching.
Algren's attack is easily brushed aside and he ends up on
the ground. Nobutada approaches and bows.
NOBUTADA
Algren-San. Please forgive me.
Too many minded.
ALGREN
Huh?
NOBUTADA
(pointing as
he explains)
Mind sword, mind face, mind people
watch, too many mind.
(on Algren's
confused
expression)
No mind.
ALGREN
No mind?
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/27/03 58.
76C CONTINUED: 76C
NOBUTADA
Hai! No sword. No people watch.
No enemy. No mind. You try.
Algren nods, uncertainly, and picks himself up. Again he
faces Nakao, shaking off tension and trying to stay calm.
Algren attacks. And once again, he ends up in the dirt.
Nobutada smiles encouragingly.
Algren can only shake his head.
77
thru
83
OMITTED 77
thru
83
83A INT. TAKA'S HOUSE - DAY 83A
Higen sits before Hirotaro's armor. It is almost as if
he is in silent conversation with the dead warrior.
Algren is passing and pauses in the doorway to look at
the young boy.
ALGREN (V.O.)
Is it bestowed at birth -- ?
83B OMITTED 83B
84 EXT. KATSUMOTO'S COMPOUND – DAY 84
Seen from afar, Algren and Katsumoto walk through the
snow deep in conversation.
ALGREN (V.O.)
I am surprised to learn that the
word, Samurai, means "to serve."
And that Bushido, The Way of the
warrior, is much more than the
study of war.
84A OMITTED 84A
84B EXT. VILLAGE - DUSK 84B
Higen sits absolutely still, in the snow. His eyes are
focused on a fixed point in the distance.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/29/03 59/60.
84B CONTINUED: 84B
Algren squats beside him. After a moment, he opens one
eye and peeks.
ALGREN (V.O.)
To the samurai, training the mind
is as important as the skills of
combat.
84C INT. KATSUMOTO'S COMPOUND - DAY (SHOT W/SC. 65) 84C
Katsumoto sits before the Buddha, deep in meditation.
ALGREN (V.O.)
Zazen, or "Sitting," seems to be a
kind of contemplation. Not prayer
as we might know it, but rather a
way of quieting the mind.
84CA EXT. TAKA'S HOUSE - PORCH - MAGIC HOUR 84CA
Algren sits on the porch writing in his journal. The
Silent Samurai stands nearby.
84D EXT. VILLAGE - ANOTHER DAY 84D
Algren is sparring with a Samurai as Nobutada and Nakao
watch.
NOBUTADA
(subtitles)
He's getting better, no?
NAKAO
(subtitles)
Yes. But still so ugly.
85
thru
88A
OMITTED 85
thru
88A
88B INT. TAKA'S HOUSE - DAY 88B
Snow outside. Algren sits by the kitchen fire with Higen
and Magojiro. The boys are teaching him to speak
Japanese.
ALGREN
Cold.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/18/03 61.
88B CONTINUED: (A1) 88B
HIGEN
Samui.
ALGREN
(subtitles)
I'm cold.
MAGOJIRO
Watashi mo samui.
(beat)
Watashi mo samui.
ALGREN
You're cold also.
HIGEN
Hi!
MAGOJIRO
(repeating)
Hi.
ALGREN
Hi. Fire.
HIGEN
(subtitles)
The branch.
ALGREN
Wood. Ede.
HIGEN
(subtitles)
The branch burns.
ALGREN
Eda ga...
HIGEN
Eda ga moeru.
ALGREN
Burns? Eda ga moeru. Burning
wood.
Taka enters from outside, shaking the snow from her hair.
ALGREN (V.O.)
Everyone is polite, every nuance
of behavior seems to have great
meaning --
She watches Higen helping Algren before walking away.
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/18/03 A61A.
88C EXT. VILLAGE - DUSK 88C
Taka carries a large sack of rice toward the house.
ALGREN (V.O.)
And yet I keep offending.
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/18/03 61A.
88D INT. TAKA'S HOUSE - DUSK 88D
Taka enters, carrying the rice. Algren goes to take it.
TAKA
(subtitles)
No, please.
ALGREN
(insistent)
Hai.
He carries the rice for her into the tent. She follows.
They are alone.
TAKA
(subtitles)
Japanese men do not help with this.
ALGREN
(subtitles)
I am not Japanese.
They look at each other –- it is the first time they are
truly present in each other’s gaze. Algren speaks in
English, taking refuge in the knowledge that he cannot be
understood.
ALGREN
You're always so polite. What
must you be thinking [feeling]?
[Do you miss him that much?] Was
he good to you? I hope he was.
She is watching him uncomfortably. She can’t understand
his words, but knows something different is happening.
ALGREN
I’m sorry. Gomen n’sai.
She looks up at him, suddenly attuned.
ALGREN
Gomen n’sai... Your husband,
Hirotaro.
Her eyes widen in startlement, then they start to well
with tears. She knows exactly what he means, and is
amazed that he would say it, or feel it.
TAKA
(subtitles)
He did his duty. You did your
duty.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/3/03 62.
88D CONTINUED: 88D
ALGREN
What are you saying?
TAKA
(subtitles)
I accept your apology...
Despite their mutual loneliness, they are still worlds
apart.
Magojiro runs into the kitchen breaking the moment. Taka
turns away toward her son.
88E AN ICE CRYSTAL ON THE END OF A BRANCH 88E
starts to drip. SPRING has come. Villagers laugh as
they go about the business of life. A man throws a sack
of rice to another. Two women hurry away from a farmer
who is teasing them.
MONTAGE BEATS:
Algren sits writing in his journal on a hilltop overlooking
the village. The Silent Samurai stands nearby.
Algren and Higen pass by the water wheel.
Algren, Higen and the Silent Samurai climb the hillside.
Higen runs to catch up with Algren.
Algren sits in the rotenburo bath and stares into the
water as it ripples over the rocks and eddies. He is
trying to quiet his mind.
ALGREN (V.O.)
Spring, 1877. This marks the
longest I have stayed in one place
since I left home at seventeen.
88F EXT. VILLAGE - DUSK 88F
Algren trains alone in the twilight.
ALGREN (V.O.)
There is so much here that I will
never understand.
88FA EXT. TAKA'S HOUSE - DUSK 88FA
Taka collects vegetables from the garden. Algren sees her.
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/18/03 63.
88G EXT. VILLAGE HILLSIDE - DAY 88G
TRAINING AREA: Ujio trains Higen in the art of sword
play.
ANOTHER AREA: Algren sits meditating on a hilltop
overlooking the village. The Silent Samurai watches him
dutifully.
ALGREN (V.O.)
I have never been a church-going
man. Indeed, what I have seen on
the field of battle has led me to
question God's purpose.
88H INT. KATSUMOTO'S CHAMBER - DAY (SHOT AS SC. 87A) 88H
Katsumoto takes an ancient sword from a wooden case.
88J EXT. WOODS - DAY (SHOT AS SC. 77A) 88J
Algren walks through the woods. He sees a stone-carved
Buddha.
ALGREN (V.O.)
But there is indeed something
spiritual in this place. And
though it may forever be obscure
to me, I cannot but be aware of
its power.
88K EXT. VILLAGE - DAY 88K
Algren, holding a wooden sword in 1870's baseball manner,
is coaxing Higen to throw the ball. Higen laughs as
Algren hits it onto the next porch.
ALGREN (V.O.)
I do know it is here that I have
known my first untroubled sleep in
many years.
Taka watches her son. It is clear that he is growing to
like Algren.
89 EXT. VILLAGE - DAY 89
Algren is once again among the training warriors...
KOURA SAMURAI #1
Ujio will win in five moves.
NAKAO
In six!
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/18/03 63A.
89 CONTINUED: (AA1) 89
He and Ujio face off, each waiting for the other to
attack.
KOURA SAMURAI #1
Next in five moves.
NAKAO
In six.
Again, and again Algren is bested.
KOURA SAMURAI #1
In seven moves!
NAKAO
In eight.
Algren is furious.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/3/03 AA63B.
89 CONTINUED: (A1) 89
But as he returns to face Ujio again, he happens to
glance at Ujio's feet. With the smallest movement, he
sees Ujio shift the weight from one foot to the other.
Next, he focuses on Ujio's hands and sees his grip adjust
slightly.
Gradually all SOUND drains away. We hear only Algren's
steady breathing. He is suddenly aware of everything. A
bird in a tree. A woman grinding rice. A plum about to
fall. A gently-swaying battle flag.
Slow-motion as:
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/15/03 A63B.
89 CONTINUED: 89
Algren attacks -- no fury, just control -- Ujio deflects
the blow, Algren anticipates, swings again. Ujio blocks
it. Algren counters. Algren presses, Ujio counters as
he retreats, but Algren won't relent. Finally both men
strike at the same moment, their swords arriving
simultaneously at the other's neck.
ALL SAMURAI
A draw!
A draw. The samurai are amazed. Algren bows to Ujio.
Ujio nods in respect.
90 EXT. VILLAGE - LATER 90
Katsumoto and Algren in the corral on the hilltop,
watching the men train below.
KATSUMOTO
Your skill is improving.
ALGREN
I am a beginner.
KATSUMOTO
Such modesty is very Japanese...
Algren smiles, but finds himself looking at the warriors
below.
KATSUMOTO
They are fine warriors.
ALGREN
I could kill all those men with a
single round from a howitzer. You
know this word, howitzer?
KATSUMOTO
I know this word. How quickly can
they fire?
ALGREN
Three rounds a minute. Four if
the crew is good. At Gettysburg,
3000 men died in fifteen minutes.
KATSUMOTO
What is their range?
ALGREN
Accurate up to a mile. Lethal at
half a mile.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/3/03 63B.
90 CONTINUED: 90
KATSUMOTO
It takes no courage to kill a man
from a half a mile away. You
should look into the eyes of your
enemy when you kill him.
ALGREN
Either way, he's just as dead.
KATSUMOTO
Taking a man's life is nothing.
You cannot take away his honor.
ALGREN
(shakes his head)
Honor...
KATSUMOTO
You do not believe in this?
Katsumoto slowly draws his sword.
KATSUMOTO
The Emperor gave this to my family
400 years ago. Many of my
ancestors have died in his
service. Our lives mean
nothing!-- honor is everything.
ALGREN
In our Civil War, the South
believed they were fighting for
honor just as you do. And their
men died by the thousands.
KATSUMOTO
Then they had a good death.
ALGREN
No they didn't have a good death!
Their land was overrun, and their
families were starving -- do you
place no value whatsoever on human
life?
KATSUMOTO
(fierce)
What do you know of human life?
You come here to kill for money.
Where is your family? Your wife,
your sons? What is your legacy?
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/31/03 64.
90 CONTINUED: (2) 90
ALGREN
(rising intensity)
And what is yours? Honor isn't
going to stop the railroads and
the cities and the machines! The
South couldn't do it, the Indians
couldn't, and you can't, either.
Katsumoto simply looks at him.
KATSUMOTO
I was told Americans were
difficult people...
ALGREN
I was told Japanese were agreeable
and polite.
The slightest smile passes between them.
KATSUMOTO
I have requested an audience with
the Emperor. He is young and
there are things I must say to
him. I await his reply.
ALGREN
When will the passes be open?
KATSUMOTO
They are open now.
ALGREN
Do you plan on letting [allowing]
me return to Tokyo?
KATSUMOTO
So that you can bring your
howitzers against my samurai?
Algren is struck by the question. What will he do when
he returns?
91 EXT. VILLAGE - NIGHT 91
The entire village has gathered to celebrate spring
planting. Torches illuminate a small stage near Taka's
house, where actors perform Kyogen, a comic form.
Algren sits near the back, marveling at the laughter and
spirit around him.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/31/03 65.
91 CONTINUED: 91
Enjoying himself, Algren looks at Taka, Higen, and
Magojiro laughing at the actors.
92 EXT. THE VILLAGE - SAME 92
Below the stage area, two samurai stand guard. They
exchange a glance -- all is well. They divide and walk
in opposite directions. One of them glances away for a
moment...
Before he can register surprise, a black-cloaked arm
grabs him around the neck, twisting sharply and he is
dragged into the darkness.
HOLD ON the darkness... until our eyes adjust to -- the
vaguest emerging shapes.
There is another way of combat. A way without the
beauty, the philosophy, and the moral code.
Their head-to-toe black clothes are a perfect camouflage,
their silence and stealth are otherworldly. They were
then known as shinobi.
We know them as Ninja.
They float across the ground... complete physical
control.
From the village stage area, we HEAR the sound of music
and laughter.
93 EXT. THE VILLAGE SQUARE - SAME 93
Katsumoto steps onto the stage. He is shaking his head
and laughing, secretly relishing the opportunity to
cavort with the players.
Algren again looks around at the laughing villagers, at
Taka and the boys, and the guards standing vigil. As
always, Samurai Bob is nearby.
Nakao laughs and yells out.
NAKAO
(subtitles)
My Lord, finally...
94 EXT. IN THE VILLAGE - SAME 94
Another samurai crumpled with his throat cut.
Ninjas creep past.
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/18/03 66.
95 EXT. VILLAGE HOUSE - SAME 95
The Ninjas jump and crawl up the walls like spiders.
One by one they take up positions on the rooftops
surrounding the square, taking small, lethal crossbows
and silently arming them.
96 EXT. THE SQUARE - SAME 96
Katsumoto is an enthusiastic actor. He plays to the
children in the audience. They are delighted with his
broad theatrics.
Algren sits back and takes in the fullness of the moment.
His eyes are drawn to the stars above, which seem
particularly bright at this moment.
Which is why he notices something odd -- a blackness
darker than the sky, the slightest shifting of a shadow
on a rooftop.
His eyes return to the stage, but something nags at him,
and he quickly realizes what it is: the guards are now
gone.
Quickly, he looks up into the darkness again, and now
sees more shapes, no more than the shifting shadows on
the rooftops.
He jumps to his feet --
ALGREN
KATSUMOTO!
Several things happen at once:
Katsumoto turns at the sound of Algren's voice, and this
act saves his life -- as a crossbow BOLT WHISTLES past
where his head just was, into the mask of the actor
behind him --
Villagers scream as --
Arrows and throwing stars rain down on the unprotected
square --
Algren has grabbed hold of Taka and the boys and, as
arrows thud all around, is propelling them toward Taka's
house --
Katsumoto ducks down and rolls off the stage as bolts
riddle the platform area.
The samurai thrust their bodies in front of Katsumoto --
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/18/03 67.
96 CONTINUED: 96
Algren pushes Taka and the boys into the house. A
samurai enters the house behind them, but is struck by a
shooting star just as he slides the shoji screen closed.
Ujio and Nakao, swords flashing, are organizing a ring
around Katsumoto, and they make their way toward Taka's
house.
Nobutada grabs his bow and is already picking off Ninja
from the rooftops --
The ring of samurai around Katsumoto is also moving
toward Taka's house, but one by one, they are being
picked off --
More Ninja have now appeared, this time on the ground --
Samurai rush to engage them, and small hand-to-hand
engagements break out around the square --
The circle of Samurai mount the steps.
UJIO
(subtitles)
Lord, please go inside.
KATSUMOTO
(subtitles)
The women, children!
Katsumoto and several of his men enter the house as Ujio,
Nakao, and a few others join the silent Samurai in a
defensive position, outside.
97 INT. TAKA'S HOUSE - SAME 97
Higen and Taka run into a corner. Algren places Magojiro
beside his mother. The Samurai following them is struck
by a shuriken as he closes the shoji screen. He falls to
the floor as Taka comforts Magojiro.
The injured Samurai manages to drag himself next to his
charges as an intruder is heard entering the house.
Algren swiftly turns ready to attack, only to see it is
Katsumoto with two more samurai.
They share a look as they hear --
A terrifying SCRAPING sound from above -- like rats. The
Ninja are up there.
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/18/03 68.
98 EXT. TAKA'S HOUSE - SAME 98
Ujio and his men are outnumbered by the attacking Ninja,
but they will not allow the attackers to enter the house.
Nearby, Nobutada is at the stage. He continues firing
his bow -- the powerful arrow passes through one Ninja
after Ninja.
99 INT. TAKA'S HOUSE - SAME 99
In the main room, for one moment Katsumoto and his men
are frozen in their defensive postures -- not knowing
where the next attack will come from.
A SOUND from the rear of the house -- a sliding screen
opening. Katsumoto and his two samurai bodyguards head
toward the kitchen area.
100 INT. THE BACK OF TAKA'S HOUSE - SAME 100
As Katsumoto and his men rush in --
Ninjas EXPLODE into the house. Katsumoto's two
bodyguards are immediately cut down -- one takes a
throwing star in the face, the other is felled by a
ninja-to, a short sword ideal for fighting in confined
spaces.
Katsumoto dives and rolls across the floor. He instantly
kills one Ninja, and narrowly escapes the slicing blow of
another.
Another Ninja dives in through the window.
101 EXT. TAKA'S HOUSE - SAME 101
Nobutada is firing arrows into the backs of the Ninja
trying to get into Taka's house.
102 INT. TAKA'S FRONT ROOM - SAME 102
Algren is reaching toward the sword of the dying samurai
as --
The first Ninja TEARS THROUGH THE PAPER WALL, and lunges
toward Algren with his sword.
Algren dodges the sword and takes a sharp kick to the
stomach sending him back over a low table. From the
floor, Algren kicks the table back into the Ninja's legs
catching him off balance.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/18/03 69.
102 CONTINUED: 102
Algren rises, catching the Ninja by the wrists, swings
him violently through a wooden screen just as a second
Ninja bursts through the paper shoji.
Taka quickly grabs the dying samurai's sword and plunges
the blade into the Ninja's stomach. Algren turns seeing
she has saved him and kicks the second Ninja away just
as --
A third Ninja enters --
Algren grabs the low tea table, lifting it up to avoid
the blade as the Ninja's sword LODGES deep in the wood.
Algren flings the table to the floor and kicks his opponent
in the knee. Algren tries to reach for a dropped sword,
but the Ninja is too quick and kicks it from his hand.
Algren throws himself, bodily, at his attacker. He
manages to grab him by the arm and flip the Ninja to the
floor. Algren elbows the Ninja and rolls, but the Ninja
grabs his head, forcing his face toward the blade lodged
in the table.
In the melee, Higen slips away into the hall. Taka calls
out in dismay.
TAKA
Higen!
103 INT. THE BACK OF TAKA'S HOUSE - SAME 103
Katsumoto wields two swords. It is the first time we
have seen him in action and his movements are both
beautiful and deadly.
More Ninjas pour in through the window. Katsumoto is now
facing four attackers. One of them hurls a throwing
star. With blind instinct, Katsumoto turns and takes it
in the meat of his arm. His attackers circle him,
looking for an opening.
104 INT. THE FRONT ROOM - SAME 104
Algren and the Ninja are in a death struggle on the tatami.
105 INT. HIROTARO'S SHRINE - SAME 105
Higen runs to his dead father's armor, grabs the short
sword --
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/24/03 70.
106 INT. THE FRONT ROOM - SAME 106
Meanwhile, the first Ninja assassin is coming around from
his collision with the wooden screen. The Ninja again
moves toward Algren, but --
Higen suddenly yells, appearing with his father's sword,
to distract the much larger man --
Algren's attacker is on top of him, and pushing his face
closer to the blade. Finally, Algren's hand finally
seizes upon a chopstick on the floor, and he plunges it
upward into the eye of his attacker.
Taka rises lifting Magojiro into her arms.
107 INT. THE BACK OF TAKA'S HOUSE - SAME 107
Katsumoto kills two of his attackers, but while evading
the furious attack of the other two.
108 INT. THE FRONT ROOM - SAME 108
Higen bravely swings the sword, but the Ninja, undeterred,
prepares to strike a killing blow to the boy --
Algren sees this and grabs the sword that was previously
kicked from his hand, leaps across the room, plunging it
deep into the Ninja's back. The Ninja falls to the floor
as Higen rolls to avoid the body. The young boy runs
into Algren's room. Algren turns to help Taka and
Magojiro inside also.
109 INT. HIROTARO'S SHRINE - SAME 109
Katsumoto is breathing heavily. His kimono is shredded
and bloody. He fends off the Ninjas' increasingly savage
attacks as Algren enters.
Algren SCREAMS, distracting them just long enough for
Katsumoto to take advantage and kill one.
Then, just as a Ninja is about to kill Algren, Katsumoto
FLINGS his short sword -- it pinwheels across the room,
hitting Algren's attacker in the back.
Without missing a beat, Algren pulls the short sword from
the dying Ninja's back and uses it stab another who,
thinking Algren defenseless, launches an attack.
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/24/03 71.
110 EXT. TAKA'S HOUSE - SAME 110
Katsumoto's samurai are finally gaining the upper hand.
All of them are bloody and sweaty and dirty and tired,
heaving for breath, their skin flayed open, their kimonos
ripped, their hands and arms and faces bloodstained.
UJIO
(subtitles)
None must escape!
111
&
112
OMITTED 111
&
112
113 INT. ANOTHER ROOM - SAME 113
Algren flinches beneath the raised blade. Suddenly the
Ninja JACKKNIFES as if punched by an unseen hand. As he
spins, dead, to the ground, we SEE an ARROW lodged
between his shoulder blades. Nobutada has FIRED blindly,
through the wall, killing Algren's attacker.
Algren and Katsumoto stand back to back, facing the last
two remaining Ninja. Their movements are instinctively
in synch as they work together to kill first one and then
the last Ninja.
Breathing hard, bloody and torn, they look at each other.
Comrades in arms.
114
&
115
OMITTED 114
&
115
116 EXT. KATSUMOTO'S COMPOUND - DAY 116
Algren enters Katsumoto's compound. The cherry blossoms
have emerged, creating a scene of intense beauty, color
and serenity.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/18/03 72/73.
116 CONTINUED: 116
He walks toward a graveyard. Cherry blossoms float on
the air. Algren stops, reaches out and touches a
blossom.
KATSUMOTO (O.S.)
A perfect blossom is a rare
thing...
Algren turns. Katsumoto sits, zazen-style, meditating.
KATSUMOTO
You could spend your life looking
for one. And it would not be a
wasted life.
ALGREN
Who sent those men to kill you?
KATSUMOTO
I am writing a poem about a dream
I had. "The tiger's eyes are like
my own, but he comes from across a
deep and troubled sea."
ALGREN
Was it the Emperor? Omura?
KATSUMOTO
If the Emperor wishes my death, he
has but to ask.
ALGREN
So it was Omura.
KATSUMOTO
I am having trouble finishing the
poem. Can you suggest a last
line?
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/20/03 74.
116 CONTINUED: 116
Algren realizes that Katsumoto has answered the question.
ALGREN
I'm not a writer.
KATSUMOTO
Yet you have written many pages
since you came here.
ALGREN
How do you know that?
(no answer)
She told you.
(no answer)
What else has she told you?
KATSUMOTO
... You have nightmares.
ALGREN
Every soldier has nightmares.
KATSUMOTO
Only one who is ashamed of what he
has done.
ALGREN
You have no idea what I have done.
Katsumoto smiles ruefully. He, of all people, has some
idea. He calls out an order in Japanese. A servant runs
to do his bidding.
KATSUMOTO
You have seen many things.
ALGREN
I have.
KATSUMOTO
And you do not fear death.
(looks at him)
But sometimes you wish for it. Is
this not so?
Algren doesn't answer right away. Katsumoto has intuited
a dark truth.
ALGREN
Yes.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 10/25/02 75.
116 CONTINUED: (2) 116
KATSUMOTO
I, also. It happens to men who
have seen what we have seen.
(looks around)
And then I come to this place of
my ancestors. And I remember...
like these blossoms, we are all
dying.
(looks back at him)
To know life in every breath.
Every cup of tea. Every life we
take. That is the way of the
warrior.
He takes in the beautiful orchard.
ALGREN
Life in every breath.
KATSUMOTO
That is Bushido.
(stands)
The Emperor has granted safe
passage to Tokyo. We leave
tomorrow.
Algren realizes his time there has come to an end. He
tries not to reveal how deeply this strikes him.
ALGREN
Good.
Katsumoto cannot reveal his disappointment.
KATSUMOTO
Good.
The servant has returned. He hands Katsumoto the
buckskin bag containing Algren's journals. Katsumoto
hands them back to Algren.
KATSUMOTO
When I took these, you were my
enemy.
117 EXT. ROTENBURO BATHS - DAY 117
Algren arrives. For a moment he watches Taka in the
midst of washing her hair.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/18/03 76.
117 CONTINUED: (A1) 117
She wears only a silken gown, and he cannot help but
notice the beauty of her bare arms. He watches for a
long moment before she is aware of him.
ALGREN
(subtitles)
Excuse me.
TAKA
(subtitles)
No, so sorry, I am finishing.
He's uncertain whether to take off his shirt.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 10/25/02 76A.
117 CONTINUED: 117
ALGREN
(subtitles)
I must go away.
TAKA
Hai.
She wraps her hair in a towel, and starts to walk past
him.
ALGREN
Taka-San.
She stops. They are standing very close together.
ALGREN
(subtitles)
You have been kind of me.
(she cannot answer)
I won't forget...
She starts to go again. Before he can stop himself, his
hand has reached out and touched her arm. She takes half
a step back in alarm --
ALGREN
(subtitles)
Listen --
(looks at her)
I wish...
Her eyes are unguarded for just a moment. And for once,
he can see that her feelings for him are deep and
complex. Then she is gone.
118 EXT. THE PORCH OF TAKA'S HOUSE - DAWN 118
Algren stands overlooking the village as the sun rises
over the misty peaks.
119 EXT. TAKA'S HOUSE - DUSK 119
Nobutada and Algren mount up. Algren looks for Taka, but
she is nowhere to be found. Algren is surprised by how
painful this is, and Nobutada sees it.
Higen comes forward and hands the scroll and pen he has
been borrowing.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/18/03 77.
119 CONTINUED: 119
Algren and Nobutada move out with Katsumoto, Ujio, Nakao
and his bodyguard of several dozen Samurai. The
villagers bow as they pass.
119A INT. TAKA'S HOUSE - CONTINUOUS 119A
Taka sits alone, unable to watch him go.
120 EXT. MOUNTAINOUS LANDSCAPE - DAY 120
Algren, Katsumoto, and his personal bodyguard ride past
towering peaks.
ALGREN
Your lands are remarkable.
KATSUMOTO
And soon they will belong to
Omura. Four hundred feet on each
side of all new railroad track. A
good deal, isn't it?
ALGREN
You ain't whistling Dixie.
KATSUMOTO
What whistle is this?
ALGREN
(smiles)
Just an expression.
121 EXT. TOKYO STREET - DAY 121
Katsumoto, Algren and the samurai ride down the middle of
the street. People scatter in their wake. Algren
dismounts in front of his quarters.
Katsumoto looks at him, then gives him the slightest bow.
Algren returns the bow as Graham watches, incredulous.
122 EXT. PARADE GROUND - DAY 122
Algren walks onto the parade ground.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/8/03 78.
122 CONTINUED: 122
Thousands of new Japanese troops are drilling with new
bolt-action Mausers. They are precise and frighteningly
mechanistic, their uniforms new and crisp.
New German advisors are barking commands.
Colonel Bagley sees him.
BAGLEY
Algren! Algren, my God, you're
alive. You never cease to
astonish.
Bagley hurries over, but Algren turns to look at the
troops.
ALGREN
Howitzers.
BAGLEY
Yes. The Germans don't have
anything like this to offer.
[ALT: This is just a slice of
what we have to offer.]
They come to the "offer." Howitzers. U.S. officers are
instructing.
BAGLEY
Soon as the Emperor signs the damn
trade agreement, they get the
whole package. Including this
particular item.
He moves toward a pair of shiny new Gatling Guns.
BAGLEY
200 rounds a minute. The new
cartridges cut down on jamming.
ALGREN
I need a bath.
BAGLEY
After living with those savages, I
can only imagine.
(beat)
Welcome back, Captain.
Algren looks out to the field. The CANONS FIRE in
sequence.
123 OMITTED 123
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/24/03 79.
124 EXT. IMPERIAL PALACE WALKWAY - CONTINUOUS 124
Female attendants stand discreetly by as the two men
stroll.
EMPEROR
(subtitles)
You rise against me, my teacher.
KATSUMOTO
(subtitles)
No, Highness, I rise against your
enemies.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/24/03 80.
124 CONTINUED: 124
EMPEROR
(subtitles)
They are my advisors, like you.
KATSUMOTO
(subtitles)
They advise in their own interest.
EMPEROR
(subtitles)
I need men who know the world
beyond our borders, or we will be
left behind, and defenseless.
KATSUMOTO
(subtitles)
If I am no use, then I will
happily end my life.
EMPEROR
(subtitles)
No. I need your voice in the
Council.
KATSUMOTO
(subtitles)
It is your voice we need,
Highness. You are a living God,
you can do whatever you think is
right.
EMPEROR
(subtitles)
I am a living God as long as I do
what they think is right.
KATSUMOTO
(subtitles)
Your Highness, forgive me for
saying what a teacher must, but
such a statement is pathetic
drivel not worthy of an ignorant
stable boy, let alone a young man
I know to have some modest
intelligence.
The Emperor laughs warmly, almost happy to be scolded as
he once was.
EMPEROR
(subtitles)
Tell me what to do, my teacher.
(CONTINUED)
81.
124 CONTINUED: (2) 124
KATSUMOTO
(subtitles)
You are emperor, my Lord, not me.
You must find the wisdom for all
of us.
124A EXT. TOKYO STREETS - DAY 124A
Algren walks through the crowd.
125 EXT. TOKYO STREETS - DAY 125
Algren fights the crowds with Colonel Bagley and
Ambassador Swanbeck. New construction everywhere.
Telegraph wires strung next to an ancient temple. Huge
billboards advertising Western goods.
ALGREN (V.O.)
May 17, 1877. How strange to be
back in a city. A complete lack
of the harmony I have come to
think of as Japanese.
A spider's web of telegraph cables spread from a tall new
brick building. The familiar Omura character is
emblazoned on the side.
126 OMITTED 126
127 INT. OMURA'S OFFICE - DAY 127
Omura stands behind an enormous desk. On the wall, an
enormous Caravaggio.
OMURA
Ah, come in.
Omura removes a gold cigarette case and lights up.
OMURA
Captain Algren, it seems you have
endured your captivity with little
ill-effect.
ALGREN
I was not ill-treated.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 11/25/02 82.
127 CONTINUED: 127
AMBASSADOR SWANBECK
Mr. Omura, I have here a draft!of
the arms agreement!--
OMURA
Captain Algren, will these weapons
be sufficient to defeat the
rebels?
ALGREN
Sufficient? Oh, I think so.
OMURA
I am eager to know how many
samurai have joined Katsumoto.
ALGREN
I'm afraid I don't know.
BAGLEY
But you spent the winter at his
encampment --
ALGREN
As his prisoner.
BAGLEY
Has he fortified his position?
Has he acquired firearms? Come,
man, what did you see?
ALGREN
As you said, Colonel, they are
savages, with bows and arrows.
AMBASSADOR SWANBECK
Sir, about the agreement --
OMURA
I'm sure your documents are in
order, Ambassador, thank you. If
you will leave them on my desk, I
will address them at the
appropriate time.
AMBASSADOR SWANBECK
With all due respect, sir, our
President's patience is wearing
thin. Perhaps there is someone
else we should be speaking to.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 11/25/02 83.
127 CONTINUED: (2) 127
OMURA
With all due respect, Ambassador,
perhaps there is someone else we
should be speaking to, for
instance the French. Or the
English. Or any of the legations
waiting in the next room...
Ambassador Swanbeck stands, swallowing his rage.
AMBASSADOR SWANBECK
Yes, well, we look forward to
hearing from you.
OMURA
Good afternoon, gentlemen.
Captain Algren, perhaps you and I
might have a word in private.
They go. Omura regards Algren.
OMURA
Please, sit down.
(beat)
May I offer you a whiskey?
What appears to be an innocent moment is fraught with
meaning.
ALGREN
No. Thank you.
Omura can see that Algren's hands no longer shake.
OMURA
Katsumoto is an extraordinary man,
is he not?
ALGREN
He is a tribal leader. I have
known many.
OMURA
(smiles)
But none who are Samurai. Their
ways have great appeal, do they
not? Honor. Compassion.
Loyalty. Unfortunately these are
virtues that now stand in the way
of what my country truly needs. A
new kind of warrior must protect
Japan.
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 11/25/02 84.
127 CONTINUED: (3) 127
OMURA (CONT'D)
Without financial strength we will
be overrun, not by armies, but by
the economic power of the British
and the Germans and your own
country.
ALGREN
I don't see how this concerns me.
OMURA
Ah, but it does. You see, you
were right, Captain Algren. Last
year we were not prepared to go to
battle. You were right and
Colonel Bagley was wrong.
Algren looks at him.
OMURA
But now we are ready. If
Katsumoto is allowed to attract
other Samurai to his cause, we
will have a ten year rebellion.
This is something I will not
allow. Either I will stop him
today at the Council, or you will
lead my army against him. And
with our new weapons you will
crush him.
ALGREN
I appreciate the offer.
OMURA
It is not an offer.
ALGREN
Mr. Omura, my contract with you
was to train your army.
OMURA
Then we will make a new contract,
one that will recognize the
extraordinary contribution you
have made to the Emperor.
(smiles)
Do we understand each other?
ALGREN
Sir, we understand each other
perfectly well.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 11/25/02 85.
127 CONTINUED: (4) 127
OMURA
Then I am pleased.
He stands, indicating the audience is over.
OMURA
Welcome back, Captain Algren.
As Algren leaves, an AIDE steps inside. Omura turns to
him.
OMURA
(subtitles)
Follow him. If he goes anywhere
near Katsumoto -- kill him.
127A EXT. OMURA'S OFFICE - DAY 127A
Algren leaves Omura's office to find Graham waiting.
GRAHAM
What in heaven's name is going on?
The diplomatic community's abuzz.
They say Omura has passed laws
against the samurai.
ALGREN
Mr. Graham, I need a drink.
GRAHAM
If your friend Katsumoto shows up
at that Council meeting armed,
he's a dead man.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 11/25/02 86.
127A CONTINUED: 127A
ALGREN
-- Not sake. Whiskey.
As they begin to walk, we SEE that they are being
FOLLOWED by two of Omura's henchmen.
GRAHAM
Oh, you who tread the lofty
corridors of power, tell a lowly
citizen -- is your friend
Katsumoto really planning to go up
against the Council this
afternoon!--!?
As they round a corner, raised voices from across the
street interrupt them. They see Nobutada surrounded by
four Imperial Army soldiers. The soldiers are rough and
imperious, drunk with power. They carry gleaming rifles.
The soldiers bark orders.
ARMY SOLDIER #1
(subtitles)
You! What do you think you're
doing?
ARMY SOLDIER #2
(subtitles)
Cut the top knot!
ARMY SOLDIER #1
(subtitles)
Don't you know about the order?
Nobutada stands proudly, responding calmly.
GRAHAM
My God, it's happening already...
The situation is growing volatile -- the soldiers are
pointing to Nobutada's head, screaming --
ARMY SOLDIER #1
(subtitles)
Hey, boy, are you listening?
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/8/03 87.
127A CONTINUED: (2) 127A
ARMY SOLDIER #2
(subtitles)
How long are you going to keep up
this "samurai" pose.
(beat)
No wonder the foreigners mock you
with that hairdo.
One of the soldiers SCREAMS at him -- raises his rifle --
all the soldiers raise their rifles --
ARMY SOLDIER #1
(subtitles)
Get down! Kneel!
Algren races toward them.
GRAHAM
Algren, stay out of it!
Algren tries to push through --
ALGREN
(subtitles;
re: the rifles)
Lower them! Lower them! Lower
them!
ARMY SOLDIER #1
(subtitles)
Who are you?
ALGREN
(subtitles)
I'm Captain Algren.
One of the soldiers smacks Algren with a rifle butt.
Algren reels, and by the time he stands again, four
others are pointing their bayonets at his face.
Nobutada reaches for his sword --
ALGREN
(subtitles)
Nobutada! Don't do it. Don't...
Algren makes eye contact with Nobutada, who -- in
deference to his friend -- puts his sword away.
The Japanese soldiers continue to scream at Nobutada.
ARMY SOLDIER #2
(subtitles)
I will cut it! Get down!
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 11/25/02 88.
127A CONTINUED: (3) 127A
They force him to his knees. Another soldier steps
forward and confiscates Nobutada's swords...
Nobutada bows his head, speaking quietly, as if praying.
Then Algren watches in horror as one of the other
soldiers removes his bayonet -- another grabs Nobutada's
hair, jerks his head back and begins hacking off
Nobutada's traditional top-knot of hair. Brutally.
Nobutada remains kneeling, head down.
NOBUTADA
(subtitles)
Stop!
The soldiers laugh and move off.
Algren kneels by Nobutada. Nobutada looks up, blood
flowing down his face, tears in his eyes. Algren helps
him to his feet.
GRAHAM
If Katsumoto shows up at that
meeting armed, he's a dead man.
ALGREN
(to Nobutada;
subtitles)
I'll take you home.
As Algren walks away with Nobutada, we SEE that Omura's
henchmen have observed it all.
128 OMITTED 128
129 EXT. KATSUMOTO'S HOUSE - DAY 129
Katsumoto's house on the outskirts of Tokyo is spacious
and harmonious. As Algren and Nobutada approach, Omura's
Ronin followers melt into the shadows.
Several samurai stand guard, including Silent Bob.
ALGREN
(grimly)
Bob. How ya doin'? How's the
family?
129A OMITTED 129A
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 11/12/02 89.
130 INT. KATSUMOTO'S CHAMBER - DAY 130
Ujio helps dress Katsumoto in his exacting wardrobe as
Algren is ushered in by the silent samurai. He smiles at
the familiar, impassive, dour face.
ALGREN
Always nice talking to you.
The silent samurai is, of course, silent.
ALGREN
(seeing Katsumoto's
dressing)
Excuse me.
KATSUMOTO
Stay.
(beat)
Thank you for helping my son.
ALGREN
They're about to close a trade
agreement that will bring this
country more weapons than you can
imagine.
KATSUMOTO
Yes, if the Emperor agrees -- but
Omura knows the Emperor must
believe there is reason for those
weapons before he will sign.
ALGREN
And you are to be the reason.
Omura passes laws guaranteed to
start a revolt so the Emperor has
no choice but to take the deal.
KATSUMOTO
And my country is sold to yours.
Elegant, isn't it?
As Katsumoto dresses, Algren notes that Katsumoto's body
is a battleground of old scars, so like his own.
KATSUMOTO
Today the Council passed two laws.
The first law takes away our topknots.
ALGREN
I know.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 11/12/02 90.
130 CONTINUED: 130
KATSUMOTO
The second takes away our swords.
(re: his swords)
Hand them to me, will you?
Algren picks up Katsumoto's two swords.
ALGREN
If you go there today, they will
kill you.
KATSUMOTO
Like you, I am hard to kill.
ALGREN
Katsumoto-San. These are your
weapons. You don't know what
their weapons can do... Your
beautiful village burned, your
family -- Taka, Higen --
slaughtered.
(beat)
For pride?
KATSUMOTO
Not for pride. For the emperor.
Algren is boiling with frustration and bile.
ALGREN
-- Your Emperor is a boy! He'll
do what he is told!
KATSUMOTO
If he wishes.
Algren holds out Katsumoto's two samurai swords.
ALGREN
Katsumoto...
(beat)
Lay down your swords. Is it worth
it? Is it really worth it? Just
for these...
KATSUMOTO
(takes the sword)
A samurai's sword is his soul. I
cannot live without my soul... Can
you?
Algren looks him dead in the eye.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 12/2/02 91.
130 CONTINUED: (2) 130
ALGREN
I've lived without it for years.
He turns and walks out. Katsumoto watches him sadly.
131 OMITTED 131
132 INT. COUNCIL OF STATE CHAMBER - DAY 132
An august room. Many of the Council members wear Western
clothes, smoke cigarettes. The young Emperor sits on a
dais off to the side.
Omura is speaking...
OMURA
(subtitles)
We are the only country in Asia
that is resisting invasion by
powerful foreign countries. We
must strengthen the Imperial Army
and improve our methods of
education immediately.
He stops... looking at something... all the Council
members turn... and gape.
Katsumoto strides in, his swords proudly displayed.
OMURA
(subtitles)
Minister, you honor us.
KATSUMOTO
(subtitles)
It is my honor to rejoin this
Council.
OMURA
(subtitles)
You are perhaps unaware of our
edict regarding the wearing of
swords?
KATSUMOTO
(subtitles)
I read every edict with singular
attention.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 12/2/02 92.
132 CONTINUED: 132
OMURA
(subtitles)
Yet you bring weapons into this
chamber?
KATSUMOTO
(subtitles)
This chamber was protected by my
sword when --
OMURA
(interrupting;
subtitles)
We need no protection. We are a
nation of laws now.
KATSUMOTO
(calm; subtitles)
We are a nation of whores.
Selling ourselves to our Western
"allies."
OMURA
(subtitles)
If we are whores, it is the Samurai
who have made us this way, living
off the backs of our people.
Katsumoto looks to the Council, but his words are
addressed to the Emperor.
KATSUMOTO
(subtitles)
I have not seen the Omura Zaibatsu
distributing gold to the masses...
It remains safely in your pockets.
They stare at one another.
OMURA
(subtitles)
Minister Katsumoto, it is with
great regret that I must ask you
to remove your sword, as this body
has declared in its edict.
Katsumoto's hand closes on his sword hilt.
KATSUMOTO
(subtitles)
With all due respect, this sword
serves the Emperor, and only he
can command me to remove it.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 12/2/02 93.
132 CONTINUED: (2) 132
Katsumoto looks to the Emperor, as murmurs fill the room.
OMURA
(subtitles)
But the Emperor's voice is too pure
to be heard in the Council of State.
One last time, Katsumoto meets the Emperor's eye. But
the Emperor looks away, thus sealing Katsumoto's fate.
KATSUMOTO
(subtitles)
Then, I must refuse to give up my
sword.
Omura looks to his associates. A silent decision is
made. A group of Guards march in.
OMURA
(subtitles)
Then, regretfully, Minister Katsumoto,
my guards will accompany you to your
home in Tokyo. There you will await
our summons.
The Guards await. Katsumoto looks to the other Council
members.
Katsumoto bows to the Emperor. The Guards lead Katsumoto
out.
132A OMITTED 132A
132B INT. ALGREN'S QUARTERS - DAY 132B
Algren is packing his few belongings, a half-drunk bottle
of whiskey is nearby. In his suitcase, he carefully
places the calligraphy scroll given him by Higen.
A KNOCK at the door. It is Bagley.
BAGLEY
Omura offers you my job and you
run away. I suppose I should
thank you.
He tosses an envelope into the open suitcase.
BAGLEY
Five hundred dollars a month --
including back pay for time spent
"in captivity."
(MORECONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/8/03 94.
132B CONTINUED: (A1) 132B
BAGLEY (CONT'Das Algren
doesn't answer)
Enough there to climb back into a
bottle for the rest of your life.
(as there is still
no response)
You're welcome.
Algren places his sidearm and shoulder holster into the
suitcase.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 12/2/02 94A.
132B CONTINUED: 132B
BAGLEY
It's all over, by the way.
Katsumoto's under arrest. Omura
won't let him last the night.
Algren pauses his packing momentarily, unable to
completely hide his reaction.
BAGLEY
With Katsumoto dead, we'll have
little trouble handling what's
left of the rebellion -- even
without you. Especially without
you.
Algren shuts his suitcase.
BAGLEY
Just tell me one thing. What is
it about your own people you hate
so much?
Algren stares at him. Bagley is what he hates about his
own people. He picks up the suitcase and walks out.
133 EXT. YOKOHAMA HARBOR - DUSK 133
Graham sits in a rickshaw as Algren instructs porters to
carry his bags toward the gangplank.
GRAHAM
I'm heartbroken. Crushed. To
think you would desert me this
way.
ALGREN
You'll get over it.
GRAHAM
Who is going to listen to my
pathetic drivel? I shall be
surrounded by merchants and
diplomats, and now I'll never get
to photograph Master Samurai in
his native habitat.
ALGREN
Sorry, Mr. Graham. You take care
of yourself.
GRAHAM
I always do.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 11/12/02 95.
133 CONTINUED: 133
A moment as they look at each other.
GRAHAM
You're right to get out.
Algren offers his hand and they shake. Graham orders the
rickshaw driver back to town, leaving Algren standing at
the dock, looking up at the schooner as PASSENGERS board.
GRAHAM
(subtitles)
To town!
A BELL RINGS, a STEWARD gives last call:
STEWARD
All ashore that's goin' ashore!
Algren walks toward the ship. He stops, stands there.
All he need do is walk up the gangplank and leave this
troubled land behind. For years he has had no
connection, not only to other people, but to the truest
part of himself.
And yet that truest part had started to come to life in a
little village high in the mountains of Japan.
A moment later he turns away from the ship. And starts
back toward town. The Ronin share a purposeful look, and
follow.
A133A EXT. KATSUMOTO'S COMPOUND - NIGHT A133A
Guards keep watch outside Katsumoto's house.
133A INT. KATSUMOTO'S COMPOUND - NIGHT 133A
Katsumoto sits on the tatami, staring straight ahead,
stilling his mind. OMURA'S BODYGUARD enters.
OMURA'S BODYGUARD
(offering a short sword;
subtitles)
If you want to save us the
trouble...
134 EXT. TOKYO STREET - NIGHT 134
Algren walks down a shadowy street, lit only by torches.
He is being followed again, and he knows it.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 11/25/02 95A.
134 CONTINUED: 134
Up ahead, the street appears to dead-end. A shadowy
figure steps into the light, hands on swords.
Algren stops, looks behind him. The two followers are
there. Algren is trapped.
The Ronin begin to close in.
Algren appears to close his eyes. And the sound of the
approaching footsteps fades as We HEAR ONLY the sound of
his breathing.
The Ronin draw their swords.
Algren gently opens his eyes. Everything has SLOWED
DOWN: a sign in the breeze, a piece of rubbish on the
street, the flame of a nearby torch.
A BLUR OF MOTION.
Everything happens so fast it is hard to tell just what
has taken place. In the strobing shadows, all we really
know is that Algren has leapt to the attack.
Within seconds, four bodies lie in the street.
Algren holds a bloody sword.
His face is cut, a sleeve is ripped, but other than that
he is unharmed. Ujio has taught him well.
As he stands, catching his breath, we HOLD on his face.
135 FLASHBACK - SAME SCENE - MOMENTS EARLIER 135
We see Algren grab one of the torches and smash it across
a Ronin's face.
It is the attack -- replayed in real-time.
Rolling to avoid a death-blow, he uses Higen's short
sword to eviscerate attacker #2.
The two remaining Ronin strike.
He parries the blow of attacker #3, whirls to slice the
legs of attacker #4, whirls again to cut off the hand of
attacker #1, who has returned to the attack.
Meanwhile, attacker #3 screams and charges -- just as
attacker #4 is trying to stand.
(CONTINUED)
96.
135 CONTINUED: 135
Algren steps back as attacker #3 impales attacker #4.
Algren steps forward and decapitates attacker #3.
Even now, it has happened too fast to be truly appreciated.
136 BACK TO THE STREET 136
We move, closer-still on Algren's face.
137 FLASHBACK - SAME SCENE - MOMENTS EARLIER 137
And so we watch the attack again, in super-slow motion
now, so we can fully appreciate its terrible beauty.
A torch smashes across a face.
A sword slices the sleeve of a coat.
Sparks fly as two swords meet.
A severed hand falls in the dirt.
Blood sprays from a decapitated head.
A sword is wiped clean.
138 OMITTED 138
139 EXT. KATSUMOTO'S GATE - NIGHT 139
Imperial Guards, carrying rifles, stand watch.
140 OMITTED 140
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/27/03 97.
141 EXT. KATSUMOTO'S GATE - NIGHT 141
Two rickshaws pull up. Algren gets out of one, Graham
the other.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 10/25/02 97A.
141 CONTINUED: 141
ALGREN
(quietly, to Graham)
Whatever you do, don't stop.
He and Algren jump out and start heading past a guard
into the compound. The guard yells in Japanese for them
to stop.
GUARD
(subtitles)
Stop! Don't come any closer!
Graham turns, still moving, and adopts his most imperious
tone.
GRAHAM
(subtitles)
Minister Omura has commanded us to
photograph the traitor --
The Guard screams in Japanese and grabs his sword.
GUARD
(subtitles)
Stop! Somebody!
Graham and Algren keep moving forward, as Graham
confidently motions to one of his bearers.
GRAHAM
(subtitles)
BRING THAT EQUIPMENT HERE NOW!!
(claps his hands)
IMMEDIATELY!!
GUARD
(subtitles)
You stop!
The guard puts himself in front of them, pulling his
sword.
GRAHAM
(subtitles)
You insolent, useless son of a
peasant dog! How dare you show
your sword in his presence! Do
you know who this is --
(pointing to Algren)
-- This is the President of the
United States of America! He is
here to lead our armies in
victorious battle against the
rebels --
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 11/25/02 98.
141 CONTINUED: (2) 141
Graham is now staring at a razor sharp blade poised
inches from his face.
GUARD
(subtitles)
It's not my responsibility...
GRAHAM
(undaunted; subtitles)
Now get over there and help those
men with their equipment!
There is a moment of doubt -- Graham has run out of
steam. But the job is done -- the guard bows
apologetically and turns to the other Guards.
GUARD
(to Guards; subtitles)
Carry the equipment.
(to Graham)
This way...
Graham and Algren turn to head inside.
ALGREN
(under his breath)
The President of the United
States...
GRAHAM
I think I'm going to be sick...
The head Guard follows them through the gate.
142 INT. KATSUMOTO'S HOUSE - NIGHT 142
Algren and Graham, followed by the equipment-laden Guard
and one of their BEARERS, approach a doorway where two
more guards stand watch. The Guard addresses them.
GUARD
Photo... graph.
The screen is pulled open to reveal Katsumoto. He looks
up as if seeing an apparition.
ALGREN
How's your poem coming?
KATSUMOTO
The end is proving difficult.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 11/25/02 99.
142 CONTINUED: 142
The BEARER sets down the equipment, leaves and closes the
screen.
ALGREN
This is Mr. Simon Graham. He
would like very much to take your
photograph. (Alternate: He's
been very helpful in gaining
permission to take your
photograph.)
GRAHAM
(subtitles)
An honor.
He begins to set up the equipment.
KATSUMOTO
(to Algren)
I thought you returned to America.
ALGREN
I thought I'd stay -- see if I
could convince you to escape.
KATSUMOTO
And how do you plan to do that?
A THUD is heard in the adjacent room.
Algren turns and opens the screen door.
A GUARD falls to the floor dead. Another lies on the
floor behind him. The BEARER stands holding a bloody
sword. He removes his hat.
It is Ujio.
He picks up the dead guards' swords and gives them to
Algren to pass to Katsumoto.
KATSUMOTO
Mr. Graham, perhaps you would care
to take pictures of my village.
Algren sees the shadow of a GUARD passing the shoji
screen. Katsumoto sees it also.
GRAHAM
I would be greatly honored.
Graham hands a sword to Algren. They run out past the
dead guards.
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 11/25/02 100.
143 EXT. KATSUMOTO'S HOUSE - NIGHT 143
Algren leads out onto the porch just as the Guard emerges
around the corner of the building. He raises his RIFLE
to fire at the group, but Algren dives into a forward
roll knocking the weapon upward just as it FIRES and
slashes the Guard across the stomach with his sword. The
dead guard falls into the lagoon.
The alarm has been given. Three Guards come running to
the scene and raise their weapons.
Katsumoto, Ujio and Graham take cover inside.
Algren runs back to join them, dodging the GUNFIRE as the
Guards OPEN FIRE toward the house.
Algren dives to the floor. Katsumoto reaches out to pull
him out of the line of fire.
The three Guards take aim again, but ARROWS slice out of
the darkness and the Guards are dead before they can pull
the trigger. Each killed by a Samurai arrow.
We REVEAL that Nobutada, Nakao, and the Silent Samurai
are the other rickshaw BEARERS.
Nobutada, Nakao and the Silent Samurai run toward the
bridge. Nobutada charges across yelling.
NOBUTADA
(subtitles)
Hurry, this way!
More Guards arrive on the opposite edge of the lagoon.
Silent Samurai and Nakao provide cover as Nobutada races
for the house and takes cover on the porch.
Algren and Ujio run out to meet him just as shot strikes
the wall beside Nobutada's head.
Nobutada leans around the corner, takes aim and fires
several arrows back. He beckons to Algren and the others
to cross.
Algren, Katsumoto and Ujio, followed by Graham, race
across the bridge dodging GUNFIRE all the way.
Nobutada then runs, following them. Nakao and the Silent
Samurai try to cover his escape but MUZZLE FLASHES
explode from the darkness.
Nobutada is hit in the knee. He falls.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 11/25/02 101.
143 CONTINUED: 143
Katsumoto senses what has happened and turns to go back.
Ujio restrains him.
UJIO
(subtitles)
Get back!
Nobutada staggers to his feet again. Another SHOT rips
into his side sending him to the floor again.
KATSUMOTO
Nobutada!
BULLETS are hitting all around them. Nobutada pulls
himself along the bridge.
Algren races out to help him and brings him to the tree
where Katsumoto is being held by Ujio.
Nobutada leans against the trunk, sliding to the ground,
gravely wounded. Blood flows from his mouth.
NOBUTADA
(subtitles)
Father. Let me do this. I
can't...
Nobutada's determination is absolute. He looks at
Katsumoto for the briefest moment. Katsumoto is being
torn apart inside as his son bravely prepares to
sacrifice himself. But he has no choice.
UJIO
(subtitles)
My Lord... There is no time.
Katsumoto pulls Nobutada to his feet. He looks at his
son and then leaves, followed by Ujio. Nobutada bows to
Algren who then also bows.
A beat. Nobutada closes his eyes.
Then he launches himself into the darkened bridge firing
arrows until he has no more. He reaches for both his
swords --
The guards FIRE.
He is HIT again and again, but still he comes, screaming,
wading forward -- his sword flashing.
It is a glorious death.
And his sacrifice has bought the others the necessary
time to race off into the darkness.
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/8/03 102.
144 OMITTED 144
145 EXT. HILLS – SUNSET 145
Algren, Katsumoto, and the others ride over rocky ground.
ALGREN (V.O.)
May 19, 1877. I am beset by
ironies. I have always fought
rebels, now I am one.
146 EXT. FOREST - MOUNTAINS - DAY 146
They climb a steep trail, mountains towering above.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 11/25/02 102A.
146 CONTINUED: 146
ALGREN (V.O.)
And yet I ask myself... can a man
truly be reborn?
Algren comes up alongside Katsumoto.
ALGREN
I am sorry about your son.
Katsumoto stares straight ahead. He will not respond.
147 EXT. ENCAMPMENT – NIGHT 147
Katsumoto stares into the fire, his face a mask of
despair. Algren watches.
KATSUMOTO
In Tokyo, I was prepared to die.
Now I am here and Nobutada is
dead. For what purpose?
ALGREN
To preserve your people.
KATSUMOTO
For 900 years my ancestors have
protected our people. Now I have
failed them.
ALGREN
Not yet.
KATSUMOTO
The Emperor could not hear my
words. His army will come. It is
the end.
ALGREN
Make the Emperor hear you.
KATSUMOTO
He is only interested in the new
ways now.
ALGREN
So what -- you're going to
surrender?
KATSUMOTO
No, I will take my life.
(CONTINUED)
103.
147 CONTINUED: 147
ALGREN
In shame?
KATSUMOTO
Yes.
Algren stares into the fire. When at last he speaks, it
is halting, not easy.
ALGREN
You read my journals.
(Katsumoto nods)
I promised Black Kettle his people
would be safe if they listened to
me. I gave him my word. But the
truth is, I knew what would
happen.
(remembers)
And when we rode into his camp
that morning... as they lay
sleeping... in that beautiful
place. I just wanted to end it.
The lies. The promises. I wanted
it... done.
(looks into the fire)
He should have been on his pony.
In his paint. With his
feathers...
(closes his eyes)
It wasn't a good death.
(looks at Katsumoto)
The Samurai cannot change. If you
are to live, it must be as you have
always lived. As a warrior. And
if you are to die, it must be as
you have always died. In battle.
Katsumoto studies him, as if seeing him for the first
time.
KATSUMOTO
Many times I've asked myself why
were you sent into my life.
Algren holds his look. The bond between them is now
complete.
148 EXT. TAKA’S HOUSE – DAY 148
The Samurai ride in. Taka comes out onto the porch and
watches them.
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/8/03 104.
149 INT. TAKA'S HOUSE - DUSK 149
Algren sits with the family in silence. Then:
ALGREN
(subtitles)
He was a good man.
HIGEN
(subtitles)
Will you fight the white men, too?
ALGREN
(subtitles)
If they come here, yes.
HIGEN
(subtitles)
Why?
ALGREN
(subtitles)
Because they come to destroy what
I have come to love.
Taka looks at him, moved. Suddenly, Higen jumps up and
bolts out of the room. Algren looks to Taka.
TAKA
(subtitles)
The way of Samurai is difficult
for children. He misses his father.
ALGREN
(subtitles)
And he is angry because I am the
cause of that.
She smiles ever so slightly at his obliviousness.
TAKA
(subtitles)
No. He is angry because he fears
you will die as well.
150 EXT. VILLAGE – GLOAM 150
Higen sits on the porch, looking up at the stars.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/31/03 105.
150 CONTINUED: 150
HIGEN
(subtitles)
My father taught me it is glorious
to die in battle.
ALGREN
(subtitles)
That is what he believed.
HIGEN
(subtitles)
I would be afraid to die in
battle.
ALGREN
(subtitles)
So would I.
HIGEN
(subtitles)
But you have been in many battles.
ALGREN
(subtitles)
And I was always afraid.
Higen looks at him, tears welling in his eyes.
HIGEN
(subtitles)
I don't want you to go.
Algren can only put his arm on the boy's shoulder and
comfort him. Nakao comes forward and bows.
NAKAO
Captain Algren. They are coming.
151 OMITTED 151
152 EXT. MOUNTAINS – DAY 152
Algren and Katsumoto look down into a valley. Nakao and
a few others wait at a discreet distance.
Below they see the Imperial Army, thousands strong,
marching across the valley toward them. Terrifying
martial columns in strict formation. It is here that the
final act of this inevitable drama will play out.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/20/03 106.
152 CONTINUED: 152
ALGREN
I'd say five thousand. They'll
come in waves of a thousand, a few
minutes apart. And they have the
howitzers.
KATSUMOTO
It makes no difference.
(Algren looks at him)
Five hundred or five thousand -–
they will come and we will make
our stand.
ALGREN
How many men will you have?
KATSUMOTO
Maybe five hundred.
(a small smile)
Like Custer, he?
ALGREN
(appreciates
the irony)
There was once a battle at a place
called Thermopylae. Three hundred
brave Greeks held off a Persian
army of a million men. A
million!–- you understand this
number in English?
KATSUMOTO
I understand this number.
ALGREN
For two days the Greeks made them
pay so dearly that the Persian
army lost all taste for battle and
was defeated soon after.
KATSUMOTO
(bemused)
You think we can defeat them?
ALGREN
I sure as hell want to find out.
KATSUMOTO
What do you have in mind?
ALGREN
(a slight smile)
Trickery and deceit...
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/20/03 107.
152 CONTINUED: (2) 152
KATSUMOTO
You believe a man can change his
destiny?
ALGREN
No. I think a man can only do
what he can, until his destiny is
revealed.
(looks down at the
army again)
But I do know one thing -– it’s
gonna be a hell of a day.
Katsumoto mounts his horse. Then in a surprisingly deft
imitation:
KATSUMOTO
You... ain't whistlin' Dixie...
He spurs his horse. Algren shakes his head and follows.
153 EXT. THE VILLAGE – DAY 153
Algren leads the preparations for battle. Warriors check
their armor, polish their swords. In the distance we see
the tents and banners of many samurai clans.
ALGREN (V.O.)
May 25, 1877. This will be the
last entry in this journal.
Katsumoto, Ujio and Nakao look on as Algren uses a brush
and ink to outline a proposed battle plan.
Graham takes a photograph of a group of samurai.
Nearby, men are fletching arrows, building odd round
balls covered with pitch. A tree is felled as Algren
supervises construction of wooden logs spiked together
for some purpose yet to be revealed. Oxen-drawn wagons
are piled high with bamboo barricades.
Katsumoto proudly looks at his warriors.
ALGREN (V.O.)
My words have not been elegant,
but I have endeavored to give a
true accounting of what I have
seen and what I have done.
Katsumoto gives his meditation beads to Higen.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/31/03 108.
153 CONTINUED: 153
ALGREN (V.O.)
But what I have seen here
surpasses my ability to express in
written word. So ends this day.
Nearby, Ujio dances his final kata alone.
154
&
155
OMITTED 154
&
155
A155A EXT. VILLAGE - NIGHT A155A
A wide establishing shot in which we see, from afar, the
many fires of the gathered samurai clans.
155A INT. KATSUMOTO'S COMPOUND - NIGHT 155A
Katsumoto sits, deep in contemplation, before the
enormous gold Buddha.
155B OMITTED 155B
155BA INT. TAKA'S HOUSE - NIGHT 155BA
Algren comes inside. Passing through the house, he
notices the shoji screen to Taka's room is open. Algren
stops to watch her. Take quietly closes her door.
155C EXT. VILLAGE - DAWN 155C
The sun rises over the majestic peaks.
156 INT. TAKA'S HOUSE – DAWN 156
Algren opens his eyes. It is the day of the battle.
157 OMITTED 157
157A INT. HIROTARO'S SHRINE - FOLLOWING 157A
Algren enters the house. Taka is waiting.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/31/03 108A/109
157A CONTINUED: 157A
TAKA
(subtitles)
Algren-san, will you come with me?
Hirotaro's armor is spread on a mat.
TAKA
(subtitles)
If you wear this, it will honor us.
He nods.
She steps to him. A moment.
She gently reaches forward and unties the sash to his
kimono.
A tender, silent scene as she undresses him and carefully
wraps him in the armor. Her hands move gracefully around
his body. His movements are gentle in response.
There are tears in Taka's eyes.
158 EXT. TAKA'S HOUSE – DAY 158
Algren emerges from the house, wearing Hirotaro's armor.
UJIO
Wait!
Ujio steps forward, looking intently at him, and then
adjusts Algren's armor. Katsumoto is waiting. Beside
him is the swordmaker. Katsumoto holds a beautiful
samurai sword.
KATSUMOTO
You will need this.
He bows his head and offers it to Algren. There are
Japanese characters etched on the blade.
ALGREN
What does it say?
KATSUMOTO
"I belong to the warrior in whom
the old ways have joined the new."
Katsumoto turns to the gathered samurai warriors and
calls out a battle cry. The samurai respond.
TIME CUT TO:
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/3/03 110.
158 CONTINUED: 158
THE SAMURAI
Ride out of the village. Taka and the boys stand among
the villagers watching them go.
159 EXT. MOUNTAIN PASS – DAY 159
The long line of samurai are joined by hundreds more.
It is the first time we have seen them in their full
armor since the battle in the fog. It is dazzling.
Ujio reaches over to adjust Algren's armor. Their eyes
hold for a moment.
160 EXT. BATTLEFIELD – DAY 160
We MOVE ALONG the line of waiting samurai. The faces are
stoic. Prepared.
They have chosen a strong defensive position. Slopes on
either side create a funnel ahead of them, through which
the Imperial Army will have to pass.
Algren stands with Katsumoto and Ujio. Graham is there,
too. The silent Samurai stands near Algren, as always.
They peer into the plain beyond at an awe-inspiring
sight. Katsumoto’s 500 samurai face a staggering 5,000
soldiers.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/3/03 111.
160 CONTINUED: 160
KATSUMOTO
What happened to those three
hundred warriors at Thermopylae?
ALGREN
(a grim smile)
Dead to the last man.
Katsumoto glances at him, smiles.
161 ON A HILL ABOVE THEM 161
Higen is revealed. He looks down first at the five
hundred Samurai, then sees, beyond, the overwhelming mass
of the IMPERIAL ARMY. Several horsemen ride out from the
Imperial line. They are met by two horsemen from the
Samurai position.
162 IN THE VALLEY 162
Colonel Bagley, Omura, and several officers meet Algren
and Katsumoto in the center of the field.
BAGLEY
Sir, the Imperial Army of Japan
demands your surrender. If you
and your fellows lay down your
arms you will not be harmed.
KATSUMOTO
That is not possible. As Omura
knows.
Omura meets Katsumoto's look. Bagley turns to Algren.
BAGLEY
Captain Algren, we will show no
quarter. You ride against us and
you are the same as they are.
ALGREN
I take that as a compliment,
Colonel.
(a deadly calm)
I'll look for you on the field.
Algren and Katsumoto wheel their horses and go.
112.
163 BACK ON THE BATTLEFIELD 163
A distant THUD followed by a HIGH-PITCHED WHINE. A
MASSIVE EXPLOSION ahead of the Samurai. Artillery.
Algren finds Graham at the base of a straw barricade.
ALGREN
Mr. Graham...
GRAHAM
Captain?
ALGREN
Would you please stay with the
horses?
Graham would like to be brave enough to remain, but he is
not a soldier.
GRAHAM
(starts off)
As you suggest.
ALGREN
Mr. Graham... Take this.
From his coat, Algren takes his journal, hands it to
Graham.
ALGREN
Maybe you can use it for your
book.
GRAHAM
I will.
He heads back to the relative safety of the horse corral.
163A EXT. OPPOSING HILLTOP - CONTINUOUS 163A
Bagley, Omura and several German and Japanese officers
stand atop a ridge among the cannon.
OMURA
Commence firing!
A JAPANESE LIEUTENANT translates:
JAPANESE LIEUTENANT
UTE!
The HOWITZERS OPEN FIRE with a thunderous barrage.
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/18/03 113.
163B EXT. THE SAMURAI POSITION - CONTINUOUS 163B
The samurai remain impassive as artillery is stepped in
closer, the range bracketed. Then ARTILLERY ROUNDS begin
to fall among them.
ALGREN
Now...
A few samurai are blown to pieces as Katsumoto BARKS a
command to Ujio.
KATSUMOTO
(subtitles)
Fall back!
163C EXT. THE OPPOSING HILLSIDE - CONTINUOUS 163C
Bagley and Omura watch through binoculars.
OMURA
You see? Even the mighty samurai
cannot stand up to the Howitzers.
Signal the attack.
BAGLEY
I advise sending in skirmishers
first.
OMURA
Nonsense! Full attack!
BUGLE CALLS are heard from the Imperial Army. The RATTLE
of the SNARE DRUMS. The sound of MARCHING BOOTS. And
then they appear. Thousands upon thousands. The
Imperial Army marching relentlessly forward in strict
formation.
164 EXT. THE SAMURAI POSITION – CONTINUOUS 164
The First Division of the Imperial Army moves through the
smoking bamboo barricades and into the funnel, their
numbers reduced by the size of the access.
As they emerge into the open, they see ANOTHER set of
barricades, wooden this time.
Behind the barricades, the samurai wait. We are
expecting them to open fire, but they do not. They just
wait.
The Imperial soldiers are in rifle range. They stop to
FIRE a VOLLEY.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/28/03 114.
164 CONTINUED: 164
BULLETS begin SPLINTERING the BARRICADES, HITTING among
the samurai. Many fall.
The Imperial Army moves closer. Another VOLLEY. More
Samurai fall.
Then, at Algren's signal, a single archer lights a
flaming arrow and fires. It flies over the heads of the
Imperial Army and lands among a cache of flaming pitch
hidden behind the firing line. A terrifying WALL OF
FLAME cuts off their escape.
KATSUMOTO
(subtitles)
Archers! Shoot! Shoot!
Finally, the Samurai fire!
500 arrows explode, instantly followed by 500 more.
Like an image from Agincourt, the clouds of arrows sweep
across the sky. Imperial soldiers are annihilated, the
attack falters --
165 EXT. OPPOSING HILLTOP – DAY 165
Through binoculars, Omura and Bagley try to peer through
the smoke.
OMURA
Can you see them?
A signal man appears with a semaphore.
BAGLEY
What on earth -- ?
OMURA
What is happening?
BAGLEY
The attack has been stopped.
OMURA
How is that possible?
BAGLEY
Retreat and bring up the
artillery.
OMURA
How long will that take?
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/28/03 115.
165 CONTINUED: 165
BAGLEY
An hour. Less.
OMURA
He cannot be allowed to escape.
Continue the attack.
166 OMITTED 166
167 EXT. BATTLEFIELD - DAY 167
BUGLES. Reinforcements come at a trot, through the
narrow defile, skirting the first barricade.
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/28/03 115A.
168 EXT. 2ND BARRICADE - DAY 168
The reinforced Imperial Army presses its attack, swarming
over the hillsides surrounding the narrow defile. They
step over their fallen comrades, firing as they come.
Behind the barricades, the Samurai archers are being
decimated. For a moment it appears all is lost --
But as the Imperial Army is about to overrun the
barricades, we suddenly realize, as they do, that a long
trench separates the Imperial Army from its goal.
FROM DOWN IN THE TRENCH
Katsumoto pulls his long sword. Algren does the same.
Then, like a tsunami, they rise as one, taking the
Imperial Army entirely by surprise. They are so close
that the rifles' advantage of the range has been taken
away.
Algren and Katsumoto lead the charge. Many Samurai are
cut down, but in moments swords engage bayonets in brutal
hand-to-hand combat. Then:
169 FROM THE HILLS ON EITHER SIDE 169
The Samurai cavalry -- led by Ujio -- who have kept hidden
until this moment, charge, screaming into the flanks of the
attacking army.
SAMURAI
(subtitles)
Attack! Prepare to die! Die...
Even rifles cannot fire in three directions at once.
An Imperial soldier levels his rifle at Algren. The
Silent Samurai sees it --
SILENT SAMURAI
ALGREN-SAN!
Algren wheels, more shocked to have heard him speak than
anything else. He sees his protector step into the path
of the bullet.
ALGREN
NO!!
The Samurai's body reels, but he wills himself forward
toward his attacker. Algren can do nothing but watch,
devastated, as his guardian takes bullet upon bullet
until he reaches the soldier and kills him.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/18/03 116.
169 CONTINUED: 169
Ujio crouches, his back leg straight and planted, his
front leg bent. Still using his bow, firing off arrows
with stunning speed, refusing to budge --
Algren and Katsumoto now fight back to back, as if one
person, slashing with their swords, shattering bayonets,
dealing death on all sides.
170 ON THE OPPOSING HILLSIDE 170
Bagley and Omura cannot see anything.
OMURA
We must call for reserves.
BAGLEY
(furious)
The reserves are a half hour back,
damn it! We've thrown three
thousand men at him and he's not
even armed.
171 IN THE MIDST OF THE BATTLE 171
A charging soldier thrusts his bayonet into Katsumoto's
arm -- Katsumoto kills the soldier with his short sword
but is awkwardly tangled with his body, a second soldier
races toward him for the kill -- Algren spins and
attacks!-- killing the second soldier -- but a third
races toward Algren, bayonet flashing --
He dodges -- but the bayonet slices into his side -- then
Ujio appears like a black spectral figure to save him.
All SOUND gradually FADES and is replaced by the elegiac
sound of a BAMBOO FLUTE... The images of combat become
fragmented and impressionistic.
But no matter how bravely the samurai fight, they are
simply outnumbered...
Nakao leads the Ashigaru (infantry) to cut off the road
-- throwing the Imperial Army into confusion.
He is like a cornered bear, arcing his two swords wildly
around him. He is SHOT in the chest, and staggers a
moment. Another soldier SHOOTS him in the arm at pointblank
range.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/28/03 117.
171 CONTINUED: 171
Nakao's sword goes flying, so the giant Samurai leaps
forward and picks up the shooter bodily, twirling him
around like a wrestler, throwing him finally onto the
upraised pike of a fellow Imperial soldier. But now
three more soldiers have leveled their weapons, and a
ruthless VOLLEY STAGGERS him again. SHOTS RAIN on him as
he tries to continue fighting, but his strength leaves
him. Finally, with one last lunge, he manages to pull an
Imperial soldier with him, crushing him as he falls.
More fall as Algren and Katsumoto fight desperately...
An Imperial soldier holds up a rifle to protect himself,
but Ujio's blade cuts through the barrel. The soldier
just has time to look at the gun in amazement before a
second sweep of Ujio's sword beheads him.
The tide begins to turn as Imperial Army soldiers run out
of ammunition, fumble with jammed weapons, cower before
the furious onslaught.
Finally, a bugler issues a call and they stumble back
through the defile in a disorganized retreat.
171A EXT. ON CANNON HILL - MOMENTS LATER 171A
Omura and Bagley watch as soldiers retreat back through
the smoke.
OMURA
This is not possible --
BAGLEY
(almost to himself)
Son-of-a-bitch thinks he can win.
OMURA
Call up the reinforcements NOW!
172 EXT. PLAIN - ALMOST SUNSET 172
The plain before the barricade is littered with the dead
and dying.
Algren and Katsumoto lean, exhausted, against the
barricade. Both men are wounded. Only about a hundred
samurai are still alive.
Algren looks over the decimated warriors for a moment.
Even those still alive are in bad shape as they wait for
the next wave of Imperial soldiers.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/28/03 118.
172 CONTINUED: (A1) 172
Suddenly, TWO SHOTS RING OUT. A young wounded Imperial
Soldier has hit Ujio in the chest. He staggers, but
refuses to acknowledge the gravity of the wound.
Katsumoto goes to him, but Ujio gruffly tells him that he
is fine.
UJIO
Daijigozaran.
ALGREN
They'll move up the artillery now.
We won't be able to stop them
again.
KATSUMOTO
This is not your battle. You do
not have to die here.
A long beat.
ALGREN
I should have died so many times
before.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/28/03 118A.
172 CONTINUED: 172
KATSUMOTO
But now you live again.
ALGREN
Yes.
KATSUMOTO
It was not your time.
ALGREN
Maybe I survived just to live this
one day.
(looks at him)
I'll stay.
Katsumoto looks at Algren. They are both thinking the
same thing.
173 EXT. PLAIN – SUNSET 173
The hundred mounted samurai move through the smoke and
flames like horsemen of the apocalypse.
Katsumoto and Algren lead them.
Barely alive, Ujio has tied himself to his saddle.
174 ON THE OPPOSING HILLSIDE 174
Bagley and Omura watch, transfixed. There is something
approaching grim admiration on Bagley's face.
BAGLEY
I'm taking command down there.
And he heads down toward the rows of waiting infantry.
OMURA
(in Japanese)
Bring up the new guns!
175 EXT. PLAIN – SUNSET 175
The Samurai horsemen begin to walk forward...
And then to cantor...
Katsumoto points his sword and screams out his war cry.
And they charge.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/18/03 119.
175 CONTINUED: 175
It is suicidal.
It is glorious.
It is the end of the samurai.
The Imperial troops FIRE a VOLLEY -- samurai horsemen
fall -- but still they come -- jumping over the fallen
horses, pounding over the earth like something from an
ancient dream --
Bagley uses his sidearm to pick off one samurai, then
another. He FIRES at Katsumoto, wounding him in the
side.
But Algren bears down upon him. Bagley is unnerved. He
hits Algren once, but before he can fire again --
Algren reverses his grip on his sword and HURLS it,
impaling Bagley in the chest. He races past, pulling his
sword from the stunned and dying Bagley.
Fifteen or twenty of the Samurai -- including Algren and
Katsumoto -- manage to fight their way through.
They break into the open, and continue riding straight
toward the rear.
Algren and Katsumoto are both wounded, yet still they
charge. They have only one thought in mind -- death to
their enemies. They gallop toward Omura.
Omura looks around in abject terror.
OMURA
(subtitles)
Quickly! Quickly!
Tarps are pulled back, revealing two lethal GATLING GUNS.
Algren and Katsumoto are near enough to see them. Yet
they will not be deterred.
They charge on.
The Gatling guns are not yet ready to fire. Soldiers
slam ammo belts into the chambers.
Algren, Katsumoto and those still alive have almost
reached their goal.
Omura cowers in fear, but there is nowhere to hide.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/18/03 120.
175 CONTINUED: (2) 175
OMURA
Fire!!!!! Fire!!!!!
The GATLING GUNS finally FIRE.
RIPPING into the samurai --
Destroying them --
One after another is hit -- and still they come -- their
voices raised in glorious cries of triumph --
Graham watches from a hilltop, tears in his eyes.
Katsumoto is hit, blood explodes -- his horse falls -- he
spills off --
Then Algren is hit. He, too, falls --
The remaining samurai still charge –-
And still the GATLING GUNS TEAR through them --
And still they charge --
Until they are all down.
Algren drags himself to Katsumoto, BULLETS EXPLODING
everywhere --
176 EXT. OPPOSING HILLTOP - SUNSET 176
A JAPANESE OFFICER orders the Gatling guns to cease.
JAPANESE OFFICER
(subtitles)
Stop firing!
Omura screams at him to continue firing!
OMURA
(subtitles)
Idiots, keep on firing!
The Japanese officer barks out a response. Refusing.
JAPANESE OFFICER
(subtitles)
Stop firing! Stop!
Omura sees all the samurai are dead or dying.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/18/03 121.
176 CONTINUED: 176
But he also sees Algren dragging Katsumoto away. He
screams at the Japanese officer to resume fire!
OMURA
(subtitles)
Shoot! Kill Katsumoto! Kill the
American!
The Japanese officer refuses.
He just looks over the plain of dying samurai for a
moment. Then he does the most remarkable thing.
He slowly kneels and touches his head to the dirt.
Then a soldier near him does the same thing. Then
another and another. And then by the thousands.
They kneel and touch their heads to the dirt.
Honoring the last samurai.
177 EXT. PLAIN - SUNSET 177
Algren drags the dying Katsumoto to a copse of cherry
trees nearby...
178 EXT. CHERRY TREES - SUNSET 178
Both men are bleeding profusely.
KATSUMOTO
Help me up...
ALGREN
Don't move.
KATSUMOTO
Help me up.
Algren helps him to stand.
KATSUMOTO
My sword...
ALGREN
No.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/18/03 122.
178 CONTINUED: 178
KATSUMOTO
You have your honor again. Let me
die with mine...
Algren looks at him, deeply moved. Katsumoto manages to
pull out his short sword.
KATSUMOTO
You must help me. Hold it
firmly...
Algren supports Katsumoto as he holds the sword's point
to his stomach.
KATSUMOTO
Are you ready?
In Algren's eyes, a resolute and calm acceptance of
death.
ALGREN
Yes.
Katsumoto looks at him deeply, warmly.
KATSUMOTO
I will miss our conversations.
Katsumoto embraces Algren firmly -- the small sword
impales him --
Algren holds him tightly. Katsumoto is looking over
Algren's shoulder as he is dying.
A look of joy and absolute peace comes to his features.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/18/03 122A.
178 CONTINUED: (2) 178
KATSUMOTO
(whispers)
It is perfect... They are all
perfect.
His eyes close. He is dead.
Algren gently kneels with Katsumoto's body.
As he holds him, he turns to see what Katsumoto was
looking at.
Cherry blossoms.
A display of perfect beauty.
Algren looks up and sees the Imperial soldiers moving
toward him. With great difficulty he stands and faces
them, open-armed.
ALGREN
(quietly)
Go on. Do it. Do it now.
But they don’t shoot. Instead, they approach
tentatively, even gently, and begin tending to him. His
face is its own battleground of conflicting emotion -–
relief, shame, amazement. He is destined to live.
179 INT. IMPERIAL PALACE - THRONE ROOM - DAY 179
Swanbeck and Omura are presenting the treaty documents
for signature. The Emperor sits restively on his throne.
AMBASSADOR SWANBECK
On behalf of the United States of
America, the signing of this
treaty will usher in an era of
unprecedented prosperity and
cooperation between our two great
nations.
OMURA
And on behalf of the Emperor, we
are pleased to have successfully
concluded this negotiation.
As an AIDE hands Swanbeck a folder, a servant comes and
whispers into the Emperor's ear.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 10/30/02 123.
179 CONTINUED: 179
EMPEROR
(subtitles)
Algren is here?
OMURA
(subtitles, to
the guards)
Do not allow that man in here!
EMPEROR
Omura --
He shakes his head, gestures to open the doors.
OMURA
(subtitles)
Highness, if we could just
conclude the matter at hand...
Algren enters with Graham. He is limping and a
bloodstain is beginning to seep through his shirt. He
carries something wrapped in a blanket.
It is Katsumoto's long samurai sword.
He prostrates himself at the Emperor's feet. Algren
unwraps the bundle and remains prostrate with his head
bowed as he offers up the sword.
OMURA
(subtitles)
Emperor, I must warn you, this man
is your enemy.
The Emperor is silent. He is torn in this moment,
whether to heed Omura or to follow his instincts.
ALGREN
(ignoring Omura)
This is Katsumoto's sword. He
would have wanted you to have it
-- that the strength of the
samurai be with you always.
OMURA
(subtitles)
Enlightened One, we all weep for
Katsumoto's loss, but we must look
to the future now, and our
nation's future lies in signing
this treaty --
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 10/31/02 124.
179 CONTINUED: (2) 179
ALGREN
-- He hoped, with his last breath,
that you would remember all the
ancestors who held this sword, and
what they died for.
Slowly, as if drawn by Algren's words, the Emperor comes
forward and sits on the floor before the sword. He
cannot help but notice as blood seeps from beneath
Algren's sleeve.
OMURA
(subtitles)
Your Highness --
The Emperor cannot look away from the sword and the
blood. When he speaks, it is in English -- to everyone's
astonishment.
EMPEROR
(to Algren)
You were with him at the end.
ALGREN
Hai.
OMURA
Emperor, this man fought against
you.
ALGREN
Your Highness, if you believe I am
your enemy -- command me -- and I
will gladly take my life.
The Emperor is stunned to hear this from a Westerner.
Then he makes a decision that will change his life. He
stands.
EMPEROR
My ancestors have ruled Japan for
2,000 years. For all that time we
have slept. During my sleep I
have dreamed. I dreamed of a
unified Japan. Of a country
strong and independent and
modern...
(touches the sword
lovingly)
And now we are awake. We have
railroads and cannon and Western
clothing. But we cannot forget
who we are. Or where we come
from.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 10/31/02 125.
179 CONTINUED: (2A) 179
The Emperor looks up at the gathered dignitaries.
EMPEROR
Ambassador Swanbeck, I have
concluded that your treaty is not
in the best interests of my people.
AMBASSADOR SWANBECK
Sir, if I may --
EMPEROR
So sorry, but you may not. From
this moment on, economic
investment from every nation will
be considered equally.
AMBASSADOR SWANBECK
This is an outrage -- !
The Emperor watches as Ambassador Swanbeck and his Aide
exit. Omura steps closer to the Emperor.
OMURA
(subtitles)
Enlightened One, we should discuss
this --
EMPEROR
(subtitles)
Omura, you have done quite enough.
OMURA
(subtitles)
Everything I have done, I have
done for my country.
EMPEROR
(subtitles)
Then you will not mind when I
seize your family's assets and
present them as my gift to the
people.
OMURA
(subtitles)
Enlightened One, you disgrace me.
The Emperor finally looks up from the sword.
EMPEROR
(subtitles)
If your shame is too unbearable...
I offer you this sword.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/8/03 125A.
179 CONTINUED: (3) 179
Omura bows and steps back, relegated to a place among the
lesser advisors.
The Emperor looks at Algren, still kneeling before him.
EMPEROR
The Samurai is gone. The spirit
of samurai lives forever.
(a beat)
Tell me how he died.
Algren looks at the Emperor.
ALGREN
I will tell you how he lived.
We slowly FADE, as Algren begins to speak...
179A EXT. TOKYO STREET - DAY 179A
Algren rides off through the crowd.
180 EXT. BATTLEFIELD - SOME TIME LATER 180
A Samurai helmet rusts in the sun. A broken sword. The
tattered remnant of a battle flag blows across the
ground. A HAND reaches down and picks it up. We HEAR
Graham's voice:
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 1/8/03 126.
180 CONTINUED: 180
GRAHAM (V.O.)
... And so the days of the Samurai
had ended.
181 INT. LECTURE HALL (ENGLAND) - DAY 181
Graham stands at a lectern on a book tour. A welldressed
audience listens attentively. A banner
proclaims, "The Last Samurai," by Simon Graham.
GRAHAM
And in the years to come the
Rising Sun of Imperial Japan would
fly in triumph over Korea, over
Russia, even over China. Nations,
like men, it is sometimes said,
have their own destiny.
182 EXT. COUNTRYSIDE - DAY 182
FEET walk along a dusty road. They move with a
noticeable limp. In the distance, a railroad engine
plumes smoke into the sky.
GRAHAM (V.O.)
As for the American Captain, no
one knows what became of him. All
that is left is his journal --
which I have published, according
to his last request.
We PAN FROM the feet TO Algren's back as he walks through
a bamboo forest.
GRAHAM (V.O.)
Some say he died of his wounds,
others that he returned to his own
country...
183 EXT. VILLAGE – DAY 183
Algren climbs a rise. He stops. We FOLLOW his gaze to
discover:
The village below.
(CONTINUED)
THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/3/03 127.
183 CONTINUED: 183
GRAHAM (V.O.)
But I like to think he may have
found at last some small measure
of the peace we all seek, but few
of us ever find.
Villagers go about their daily routine. And then we see:
Taka working in the garden. Higen and Magojiro work with
her. Sensing something, Taka turns to see:
Algren, looking at her. A smile of quiet joy spreads
across his face.

FADE OUT.

THE END

THE LAST SAMURAI - Rev. 2/3/03 128.