Toshiro Mifune’s 10 best movies, ranked

Toshiro Mifune is an iconic Japanese actor and producer, and his collaboration with famous directors, especially Akira Kurosawa, changed the world’s perception of Japanese films. Mifune is recognized for his intensity, physical presence and adaptability, portraying a variety of hypermasculine characters, from samurai warriors to contemporary businessmen.. His partnership created some of Akira Kurosawa’s best films and defined Japanese cinema during the mid-20th century, drawing international attention to Japan’s burgeoning film industry. Mifune symbolized the artistic excellence of Japanese cinema and impacted the film industry throughout his career.

Mifune’s expertise extended beyond working with Kurosawa. He has worked with some of the best directors of all time, such as Masaki Kobayashi and John Boorman, and has shown his versatility and global star power. Whether depicting a battle-weary soldier, a determined detective or an expert samurai, Mifune elevates each role with unparalleled charisma and depth. His influence on cinema resonates today, as his finest films capture audiences worldwide. These are the best movies to highlight all the incredible aspects of Mifune’s remarkable talent.

10

Red Beard (1965)

The most expensive film ever made in Japan at the time

Taking place in a rural clinic in Edo-era Japan, Red beard turns around The bond between Dr. Kyojō Niide, portrayed by Toshiro Mifune, and a young, optimistic doctor, Yasumotowho is assigned to the clinic. Dr. Nide, known as Red Beard because of his fiery temper and red facial hair, is an experienced doctor who educates the younger doctor about humanity and the harsh realities of poverty in their country. The film vividly portrays Japan of the 19th century, emphasizing the differences between the upper and lower classes.

Mifune’s picture of Red beard is exceptional, presenting an authoritative and compassionate character with his understated physical presence and deep emotional depth. Although Red Bird lacks the action-packed intensity of Mifune’s samurai depictions, it is notable for the maturity of its performance. TThe film represents Mifune’s final collaboration with frequent collaborator and director Kurosawa and marks a departure from their earlier, more dynamic films. Its slower pace and contemplative journey may not draw in all audiences, but Mifune’s performance is deeply poignant, offering a worthy conclusion to his 16 films with Kurosawa.

9

Throne of Blood (1957)

Co-written, produced, edited and directed by Akira Kurosawa

Mifune plays Taketori Washizu, A samurai lord whose ambition is manipulated by a prophetic spirit in this transposition of Shakespeare’s Macbeth. Set in wartime Japan, the film closely follows the plot of the classic game, with Washizu betraying his friend and fellow warrior Miki to seize power, only to be consumed by an all-encompassing guilt and paranoia. The story is framed with ghostly visions, eerie landscapes, and moments of explosive violence, all with the touch of Kurosawa’s masterful direction.

Mifune’s portrayal of Washizu is haunting, capturing the internal decline of a man corrupted by his ambition. His physicality is one of the most relevant aspects of the performance – whether he is driving through misty forests or enduring the pangs of guilt, his body conveys his inner thoughts and feelings. The film’s gripping atmosphere creates an oppressive tension, and Mifune’s intense performance anchors the tragic tale.. Although Throne of Blood Not as widely recognized as his best samurai film, it showcases Mifune’s versatility, blending theater, raw emotion and brute physicality into one of his most iconic images.

8

The Hidden Fortress (1958)

Also known as ‘The Three Villains of the Hidden Fortress’

In this 1958 classic, Mifune portrays General Rokurota Makabe, a loyal guard of a princess trying to escape through enemy lines with the help of two hapless peasants. The film is an adventure tale infused with humor, suspense and some incredibly great action sequencesRepresenting one of Kurosawa’s initial ventures into widescreen filmmaking. As the general, Mifune brings a reliable authority to the role, guiding the princess and the peasants through difficult terrain and showcasing expert swordsmanship.

The film stands out for Mifune’s compelling performance and impact on culturally significant cinema, famously inspiring George Lucas. Star Wars. Mifune’s portrayal of Makabe is heroic, embodying the morals and ideals of a samurai warrior. While The hidden fortress is lighter in tone than some of Mifune’s other filmsIt remains an integral part of his work for its blend of comedy and action throughout the story. The entertainment value of this film and its position in cinematic history firmly establishes itself as one of Toshiro Mifune’s best films.

7

The Bad Sleep Well (1960)

Japanese neo-noir crime mystery thriller

The character Mifune plays in The bad sleep well is Koichi Nishi, a man seeking revenge against a corrupt corporation responsible for his father’s early death. The movie opens with an unforgettable scene at an elaborate corporate wedding, where Nishi’s plan for revenge begins to unfold.. Kurosawa’s modern interpretation of Hamlet (similar to his work on Shakespeare’s inspired Throne of Blood) is full of mystery and moral ambiguity. Mifune firmly cements the film by portraying a man caught between seeking revenge and developing a sense of right from wrong.

In contrast to many of Mifune’s roles that often emphasize his physical stature, The bad sleep well Demonstrates his ability to portray modern, intellectual characters. His controlled performance reflects a man who simmers with rage but hides behind a composed exteriorMaking the final part of the film incredibly captivating. Although the movie lacks the intense action of Mifune’s samurai roles, it presents a more reflective aspect of the actor. The exploration of corporate greed and personal revenge gives the film a relevance that remains relevant to this day.

6

Samurai Rebellion (1967)

Japanese jidaigeki (period drama) film directed by Masaki Kobayashi

Set in Japan’s Edo period, Samurai Rebellion Tells the story of Isaburo Sasahara, an aging samurai who defies his master to protect his family’s honor. When his son is forced into an unwanted marriage with a former master’s mistress, Isaboro eventually rebels against the injustice inflicted on himself and his family.. The film’s gradual build-up of tension erupts into a compelling final act, filled with emotional angst and brutal revenge. Mifune portrays Isaburo with dignified restraint and only unleashes his fury when he is left with no other option.

Samurai Rebellion is one of Mifune’s most subtle performances, but it stands the test of time due to the deep emotional impact he brings to the role. Its depiction of a human conflict between duty and personal belief is moving, and the film’s examination of loyalty and disloyalty within a rigid social structure is beautifully constructed.. Mifune’s ability to convey deep emotional conflict makes this one of his most powerful performances, distinguishing it from his many other samurai roles.

5

Sanjuro (1962)

An adaptation of the shūgorō Yamamoto novel ‘Hibi Heian’

In a follow-up to Yojimbo (1961), Sanjuro Follows the titular wandering ronin as he aids a group of inexperienced young samurai in their mission to deal with a corrupt official. While Yojimbo is darker and more violent, Sanjuro Combines action with moments of humorAs Mifune’s great yet wise Ronin leads the boys with an air of spoiled and dumbfounding amusement. The film ends with an exciting final duel, again displaying Mifune’s expert swordsmanship in his leadership roles.

SanjuroThe perfect blend of humor and action puts it high on the list. Mifune’s portrayal of the wise but cynical samurai is consistently engaging as he navigates the intricate political schemes with genuine wit. His character’s dry sense of humor contrasts with the youthful idealism of the samurai group he assists, creating a dynamic that adds further complexity to the film.. Mifune’s physical presence is once again authoritative, and the final moments of the film showcase his ability to transition between lightheartedness and deadly seriousness.

4

Rashomon (1950)

Japanese jidaigeki film co-written and directed by Akira Kurosawa

Kurosawa S Rajman is a film that defies narrative conventions of typical cinema, with Mifune portraying Tajōmaru, a bandit whose account of a samurai’s murder is one of four conflicting versions of the same event (a cinematic plot device that would be known as the Rashomon Effect). Each retelling of the story presents a different perspective of the truth with Mifune’s character depicted alternately as a villain, a victim or an unsung hero. The film’s innovative narrative structure and exploration of truth and perception helped explode Japanese cinema into the global mainstream.

Mifune’s portrayal of Tajomaru is captivating, drawing viewers into the bandit’s unpredictable and intense nature. His performance constantly evolves with each retelling of the story, showing his versatility and ability to quickly convey multiple facets of the same character. Rajman is not only a critical Mifune film, but a milestone in all of world cinema, and Mifune’s presence in it elevates the film’s exploration of humanity and truth.. Although some of the subject matter is sensitive, Mifune’s role is incredibly complex and makes for one of his most memorable roles, contributing significantly to the film’s overall cultural legacy.

3

Yojimbo (1961)

Japanese samurai film co-written and directed by Akira Kurosawa

Mifune’s character, a cunning, wandering ronin, arrives in a town divided by two competing factions who want to secure the lucrative gambling trade. Yojimbo is characterized by tense standoffs, moments of humor, and violence, as Mifune’s character outsmarts both gangs while remaining detached from the ensuing chaos around him. His calm demeanor, cheeky grin, and toothpick-chewing inspired the masculine archetype for the “Man with no name” character later portrayed by Clint Eastwood. The film’s perfectly choreographed action sequences and its expert balance of violence, wit and suspense secure its place as one of the greatest samurai films of all time.

Mifune’s performance in Yojimbo is nothing short of iconic. He weaves together small things with great charm, leaving character. His ability to convey humor and intelligence simultaneously speaks to his versatility as an actor. While the film’s influence on the Western genre is undeniable, it stands alone as its own brilliant piece of cinema. Mifune’s authoritative presence and expert swordsmanship make Yojimbo A peak of his career, securing his position near the top of the list.

2

High and Low (1963)

Also translated as ‘heaven and hell’

High and low is a gripping, tense crime thriller that traces the journey of a wealthy businessman, Kingo Gondo (Mifune), who faces a moral dilemma when his driver’s son is accidentally kidnapped instead of his own. Gondo is forced to choose between his wealth and saving the child whose life is now in danger while navigating the intricate dynamics of wanting to succeed in business and maintain his reputation. The film is a stark exploration of post-war Japanese society, contrasting Gondo’s opulent world with the poverty of those who orbit his world.

Mifune’s picture in High and low is one of his most revered and nuanced. He portrays an intense, internal conflict, embodying a man who must reconcile his desires with the weight of incredible moral responsibilities. TThe film is elevated by Mifune’s ability to evoke sympathy and suspense as the audience witnesses his impossible choices. Kurosawa’s ever-masterful direction, combined with Mifune’s multilayered performance, cements it High and low As one of the greatest crime dramas ever. His examination of ethical dilemmas combined with the spotlight on the division between social classes is perfectly executed, leaving it just shy of the top spot.

1

Seven Samurai (1954)

Japanese epic samurai action film directed by Akira Kurosawa

Considered one of the most influential films in cinema history, Seven Samurai Follows a group of seven warriors enlisted to protect a poor village from a bandit gang. Mifune portrays Kikuchiyo, a half-mad, mercurial farmer masquerading as a legendary samurai. His performance contributes significantly to the film’s emotional infrastructure, blending humor, tragedy and raw emotion. As the story unfolds, Kikuchiyo transforms from a comic outsider at the edge of the plot to a tragic hero, exposing his deep-seated longing for acceptance by the samurai he initially impersonated.

Mifune’s picture in Seven Samurai is undeniably legendary. He infuses Kikuchiyo with boundless energy, physically and with real emotional depth, rendering him one of the film’s most intricate and memorable characters. His ability to go between comical antics and moments of deep sorrow makes Seven Samurai A defining cinema experience. The film’s grand scale, epic cinematography, emotional impact and perfect direction cemented its legacy, and Mifune’s performance is a central reason for its enduring influence.. It stands not only as the best Toshiro Mifune film but also as one of the greatest films ever created.