Review: The Bad Sleep Well (1960)

Akira Kurosawa’s 1960 film, The Bad Sleep Well, is often seen as a sharp critique of post-war Japanese corporate culture. While it might not be as widely discussed as some of his samurai epics, it stands out as a gripping narrative about revenge and corruption. For collectors of classic Japanese cinema, this film is a fascinating entry in Kurosawa’s diverse filmography.

Plot Summary

The Bad Sleep Well opens with a scene that's both dramatic and intriguing: a wedding ceremony that quickly transforms into a tense affair as reporters swarm to uncover a scandal involving the wealthy corporation behind the event. At the center of this unfolding drama is Koichi Nishi, a man on a mission to avenge his father’s death, which he attributes to the corrupt practices of this business empire. As Nishi navigates the murky waters of corporate betrayal and legal loopholes, the film weaves a story of moral ambiguity and personal vendetta, holding the audience in suspense without revealing too much until the perfect moment.

Performances

Toshiro Mifune, a frequent collaborator of Kurosawa, delivers a strong performance as Koichi Nishi. His portrayal is nuanced, capturing both the calm and calculated demeanor of a man on a mission, while also revealing the emotional turmoil beneath his composed exterior. Mifune's ability to convey silent intensity makes his character's quest for vengeance all the more powerful.

Supporting Mifune is an ensemble cast that brings depth to the shadowy corporate world depicted in the film. Masayuki Mori, playing the role of Iwabuchi, the corrupt executive, exudes an unsettling calm that perfectly contrasts with Mifune’s intensity. Kyoko Kagawa, as the innocent daughter unwittingly caught in the crossfire, adds a layer of humanity and vulnerability to the otherwise stark narrative. Each actor contributes to the film's atmosphere, making the interactions both believable and engaging.

Direction and Craft

Kurosawa’s direction in The Bad Sleep Well is meticulous, reflecting his keen eye for detail and storytelling. The film’s pacing is deliberate, allowing tension to build gradually, which pays off in its gripping climax. Kurosawa employs his signature visual style, using framing and composition to accentuate the themes of entrapment and surveillance within the corporate hierarchy.

The stark black-and-white cinematography by Yuzuru Aizawa amplifies the film’s moody atmosphere. Shadows play a significant role in the visual narrative, symbolizing the moral complexities and hidden motives of the characters. The use of architecture, particularly the ominous corporate office buildings, underscores the cold, impersonal nature of the corporate world Kurosawa critiques.

The screenplay, co-written by Kurosawa, is intelligent and layered, blending elements of Shakespearean tragedy with a noir sensibility. The dialogue is sharp and often laden with subtext, challenging viewers to think critically about issues of justice and morality.

Collector's Verdict

For collectors, The Bad Sleep Well is a noteworthy acquisition, particularly for those interested in Kurosawa’s non-samurai works. The best format to own this film is undoubtedly Blu-ray. The Criterion Collection offers a version with a pristine restoration that brings out the nuances in Aizawa's cinematography. This edition also includes insightful special features that provide context and enhance appreciation for the film.

While not exceedingly rare, The Bad Sleep Well is uncommon and finding a well-preserved copy, especially one with original packaging or bonus features, adds value to any collection. Whether you're a seasoned Kurosawa fan or new to his work, this film offers a different perspective on his storytelling prowess.

In conclusion, The Bad Sleep Well is a must-have for Kurosawa enthusiasts, both for its narrative depth and its critical examination of corporate ethics. It’s a film that resonates with its portrayal of classic human struggles, making it a rewarding watch for any collector.

Star Rating

4.5 out of 5