Backdrop preview Decisive Battle at Kuroda Castle backdrop
Decisive Battle at Kuroda Castle

Decisive Battle at Kuroda Castle (1960)

May 28, 1960 1h 14m History Drama

After the massacre of Christians at Shimabara, followers of Amakusa Shiro band together in a plot to overthrow the shogunate in order to exact revenge on the Tokugawa. At the same time there is a succession dispute in the Kuroda clan, as one faction tried to usurp the rightful heir and take over the honored clan. Before his untimely death, the lord of the Kuroda bestowed “Nihongo”, a magnificent spear, on his finest warrior, which ultimately brings him into contact with two of Japan’s most famous historical figures, Yagyu Jubei and Miyamoto Musashi. Can the three masters of martial art join forces to defeat their enemies and save the nation?

Directed by Gorō Kadono

Cast

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Kanjūrō Arashi
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Kanjūrō Arashi

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Shōzaburō Date

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Namiji Namiura

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Jūzaburō Akechi
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Jūzaburō Akechi

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Kōtarō Bandō
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Kōtarō Bandō

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Saburō Sawai

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Ayame Hanazono

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Sōten Kuni

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Sōzaburō Kikuchi

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Baku Mizuhara

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Takamitsu Watanabe

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Kazuki Nishi

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Hiroshi Hayashi

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Hiroshi Shingûji

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Yukio Kohama

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Crew

Director
  • Gorō Kadono

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Decisive Battle at Kuroda Castle 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 Gorō Kadono 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 1960, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Decisive Battle at Kuroda Castle took approximately 14 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 74 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 129 minutes long.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The musical score contains over 76 unique compositions.
  • The film contains approximately 1799 individual shots.

Historical Context

  • In 1960, when this film was released:
  • The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
  • Counterculture movements were challenging traditional values.
  • The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.

How This Film Stands Out

Details

  • Release Date: May 28, 1960
  • Runtime: 1h 14m

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