I must admit I was taken aback by the setting—the 19th century—because I had always pictured it taking place earlier. However, that doesn't lessen the impact of the narrative; Kurosawa once more features Yoshirô Mifune ("Sanjûrô") in a central role. He portrays a traveling samurai who comes across a village embroiled in conflict. Both opposing leaders try to enlist his services, and he skillfully manipulates them aga…

Akira Kurosawa’s YOJIMBO, released in 1961, is a Japanese historical drama that demonstrates how cleverness can be just as valuable as skill with a sword. The story unfolds during the late Edo period—several years before its conclusion in 1868—in a town troubled by two rival gangs who have established a criminal enterprise centered around prostitution and gambling. Even those in positions of authority are accepting b…

This film really impressed me. Kurosawa’s skill as a filmmaker is undeniable.