Definition & Meaning of "samurai film"

What is a "samurai film"?

A samurai film is a genre of movie that centers around the lives and adventures of samurai, the warrior class in feudal Japan. These films often showcase the skills, honor, and code of conduct of samurai, featuring themes such as bravery, loyalty, and duty. The stories typically include dramatic sword fights, intense battles, and personal quests, set against historical or fictional Japanese backdrops. Samurai films are known for their striking visuals, traditional settings, and the portrayal of the samurai's strict moral and ethical principles.