Category: Toshiro Mifune
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Criterion: Rashomon (*****) weak by nature
Rashomon stands as a gateway to our existence. It is one of the greatest films ever made, and should be viewed by anyone seeking insight through true artistic achievement. It should be used as a template for those wishing to begin to understand the ever contrasting nature of humanity.
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Criterion: Wedding Ring (***) the doctor always rings twice
For those who are looking to enjoy the development of Mifune as a lead actor, this is worth watching.
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Criterion: Drunken Angel (****) is a stunning look at postwar Japan
Drunken Angel is a flawed, but brilliant first film by one of the world’s greatest directors. Knowing he is this good when he started out makes me hopeful for a future I already know.
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Criterion: Snow Trail (****) – Mifune’s debut has another star
It’s Shimura who steals this story, though. His performance connects the viewer to the humanity of some of the fiercest combatants of the Western world in a format we all can relate to, no matter the barrier.
Ebert Did It Better: Gasbag Reviews 