Cast
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Toshirō Mifune
as Dr. Kyojio Niide ("Red Beard")
Yūzō Kayama
as Dr. Noboru Yasumoto
Tsutomu Yamazaki
as Sahachi
Reiko Dan
as Osugi
Miyuki Kuwano
as Onaka
Kyōko Kagawa
as Madwoman ("The Mantis")
Tatsuyoshi Ehara
as Genzô Tsugawa
Terumi Niki
as Otoyo
Akemi Negishi
as Okuni
Yoshitaka Zushi
as Chobo
Yoshio Tsuchiya
as Dr. Handayû Mori
Eijirō Tōno
as Goheiji
Takashi Shimura
as Tokubei Izumiya
Chishū Ryū
as Mr. Yasumoto
Haruko Sugimura
as Kin, the madam
Crew
Director
- Akira Kurosawa
Producer
- Tomoyuki Tanaka
- Ryūzō Kikushima
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Red Beard examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Akira Kurosawa brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1965, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Red Beard took approximately 24 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 185 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 222 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 5 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1965, when this film was released:
- Counterculture movements were challenging traditional values.
- The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Red Beard shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Dancer in the Dark, which focuses more on action than character development, Red Beard subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Goryokaku and Mothra vs. Godzilla explore similar territory, Red Beard stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
