Takashi Shimura delivers a noteworthy performance within this somewhat bleak story concerning a doctor struggling with alcohol ("Sanada"), who finds himself responsible for tending to people living amongst the ruins of a city. A sizable, still body of water located near their homes seems just as capable of spreading illness as the ongoing presence of Yakuza operations. These activities revolve around "Matsunaga" (Toshirô Mifune), who arrives at the clinic with an injured hand. While treating the injury, the doctor also advises that the man should seek further care for what he believes is likely tuberculosis. The two men clash—both in words and physically—and their situation deteriorates when his superior "Okada" (Reizaburô Yamamoto) is released from prison and begins to reestablish control over the local merchants. Despite their initial antagonism, Kurosawa successfully creates a noticeable connection between them as the narrative unfolds. It’s a friendship, of a kind, that develops due to shared frustration and a mutual inclination toward heavy drinking, and this aspect becomes increasingly captivating as certain elements of the plot become unavoidable. The guitar music accompanying Fumio Hayasaka's score is quite pleasant, and the dialogue subtly but effectively moves things forward as these two contrasting personalities begin to find common ground. The film maintains a brisk tempo, incorporating ample action while also prompting considerable empathy for the doctor who’s trapped in a downward spiral that feels largely of his own making.

Source on TMDB