The Hidden Fortress

Name: The Hidden Fortress
Director: Akira Kurosawa
Genre: Drama, Action, Adventure
Released: 1958-01-01
Duration: 139 min
Rating: 8.0
Cast: Toshirō Mifune, Minoru Chiaki, Kamatari Fujiwara, Misa Uehara, Susumu Fujita

1958Dir. Akira Kurosawa2h 19m

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Runtime2h 19m

Released1958

Box office$58K

DirectorAkira Kurosawa

About This Movie

Kurosawa's 'The Hidden Fortress' is a gem from 1958. It’s got this wild blend of action and humor, driven by the two peasants who are utterly self-serving yet somehow relatable. The cinematography captures the rugged beauty of Japan, and the pacing keeps that tension high. You can see the framework for 'Star Wars' in the storytelling, but it stands on its own as a meditation on loyalty and honor amidst chaos. Plus, the practical effects and sweeping battle scenes are just a joy to watch, showing off the craftsmanship of the time. Toshiro Mifune brings a charisma that elevates every scene. Definitely a piece that adds depth to any collection.

Criterion released a restored version in 2008.Features stunning black-and-white cinematography.Mifune’s performance is central to the film's appeal.Influenced many Western films, notably 'Star Wars'.