#223. Rashomon (1950, Akira Kurosawa)

Have I Seen It Before?: Yes


Thoughts Before Viewing: This is one I've really been meaning to re-watch.  It's always been one that I slightly appreciate more than love.  Mostly down to the unique structure of telling the story from several different perspectives.

Running Time: 88 minutes
Directed By: Akira Kurosawa
Written By: Akira Kurosawa
Primary Cast: Toshiro Mifune, Machiko Kyo, Masayuki Mori



Summary: A heinous crime and its aftermath are recalled from different points of view.



My Thoughts: This is an absolute classic.  It's incredibly unique in the way it plays like a samurai mystery noir.


On this viewing, I especially found myself appreciating its use of rain.  It plays a huge role in contributing to the overall mood.  The film has a distinct bleakness, which makes sense considering it came out only a few years after the bombing of Hiroshima.   Despite its bleakness and philosophical nature, it's actually very fun.  It's a blast getting lost into each story, noting all of the contradictions and lies.



Does It Belong In The Book?: Oh absolutely, this film is groundbreaking in storytelling structure.  The blueprint for basically anything told out of chronological order as well as the unreliable narrator.



My Rating: 8/10