Classics: Ran

Inspired by Shakespeare’s King Lear and Japanese history, Ran follows Tatsuya Nakadai as the aging warlord Hidetora Ichimonji, whose decision to divide his empire among his sons leads to betrayal, destruction, and madness. Known for its breathtaking cinematography, the film features meticulously choreographed battles and a masterful use of color, influenced by Kurosawa’s background as a painter. Released in 1985, Ran is regarded as one of Kurosawa’s final masterpieces, cementing his legacy after decades of groundbreaking work, from Seven Samurai to Throne of Blood to High and Low. Four decades later, the film remains as grand, gripping, and philosophically profound as ever.