The movie Hara-Kiri: Death of a Samurai is a 2011 film directed by Takashi Miike. The story is set during the Edo period in feudal Japan and follows the plight of a poverty-stricken samurai named Hanshiro Tsugumo. Tsugumo asks the house of a feudal lord if he can commit hara-kiri (a ritual suicide) in their courtyard, but the lord refuses because he suspects Tsugumo is only seeking charity and has no intention of actually committing suicide.
Tsugumo then reveals that he knows the true story of a young ronin, Motome Chijiiwa, who came to the same house requesting to commit hara-kiri, only to be pressured into a gruesome and dishonorable death by the lord's retainers. Tsugumo claims to be Motome's father-in-law and demands to avenge his son-in-law's dishonor and death.
The movie alternates between flashbacks of Motome's story and Tsugumo's interactions with the lord's retainers as he seeks to carry out his revenge. As Tsugumo's determination and skill in sword-fighting become apparent, the lord's honor is tested and a final showdown between Tsugumo and the lord's top samurai is set in motion.
Hara-Kiri: Death of a Samurai is a slow-burn drama with beautifully choreographed fight scenes and a deep exploration of the samurai code of honor. It was nominated for the Palme d'Or at the 2011 Cannes Film Festival and received critical acclaim for its exploration of revenge, masculinity, and moral righteousness.