Seven Samurai vs. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles(1990)
- Seven Samurai (64%, 9 Votes)
- Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles(1990) (36%, 5 Votes)
Total Voters: 14
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Seven Samurai vs. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1990)
In this review, I will do a short comparison (spoiler free) of Akira Kurosawa’s 1954 epic film Seven Samurai against the more recent, but still (in my opinion) classic Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles released in 1990.
Both of these films are classics in their own way, hence the fact they both made it to the quarterfinals, despite their many differences. One is an epic story of samurai defending a village, one is based on a comic book about hero ninja turtles defending New York against an epic crime wave. However, only one can win!
The Fighting
Of all the films I have reviewed, these two have the most disparate fighting styles. Seven Samurai is often described as an epic film, and this moniker certainly applies to its fight scenes. Not only is the action based on a massive battle scale, but it was considered groundbreaking in many ways. For example, rumor has it (according to the IMDB page) that the filming of the climactic fight scene was delayed while the crew located enough horses to use in filming. Many consider Seven Samurai the pioneer of many of the action films we enjoy today. Anyone who enjoys martial arts films post-1954 owes a debt of gratitude to Kurosawa.
On the other hand, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, as expected, focuses much more intently on close quarters combat. Not necessarily one on one, but much more focused on individual fighting. For these scenes, the filmmakers chose to focus, not so much on the more popular Saturday morning cartoon gearing towards children, but rather the initial comic book material, which was darker in tone. The fight scenes are all the more impressive when the viewer remembers and appreciates the fact that the actors playing our turtle heroes are in heavy foam costumes. Yet, that is easy to forget based on smooth moves these talented martial artists are able to portray.
Other Film Elements
Ok, I’m going to be honest here, as far as non-fighting elements, one of these films is (as mentioned) an epic. Kurosawa directed this film at an audience still reeling from defeat in World War II. The other is based on a comic book. Nonetheless, in my opinion, neither of these films drags during non-fight scenes. Seven Samurai masterfully explores the dynamic between the samurai and the villagers they are hired to defend. Specifically, they focus on the difference in classes. It also examines the preconceptions each group brings to the other. Yet, they learn to depend on each other for the upcoming fight against the true enemy.
On the other hand, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles explores the ideas of the turtles as outsiders. The city they fight to defend will never understand them. It also explores the idea of family relationships and bonds and how they can develop and strengthen through times of struggle.
Conclusion
These two films are vastly different but are each champions of their own space. That’s why they both made it so far! I feel a lot of which one prefers is based on personal preference of style. Maybe even a bit of nostalgia. However, it’s up to you to choose! Vote below, as only one can advance to the semi-final round.
Let me know what you think of this matchup between two very different movies in the comments section below!
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Someone may have already suggested this, in which case I second it, but may I suggest that *next* year’s competition be double-elimination? Pairing Crouching Tiger with the Seven Samurai in the first round meant one of these films was “out” right away … no chance for second place. Thanks!