Review of Ran (1985) by G S — 29 Nov 2011
Terrific adaptation of King Lear. Of course it is not a faithful adaptation of Shakespeare's play, it is more of a film inspired by it. Nonetheless, the very essence of Shakespeare's play is captured by Kurosawa's visually stunning epic about an old ruler's haste and foolish decision which his entire family pays the price for.
Tatsuya Nakadai gives a masterful performance as a once fierce and now shell-shocked old emperor. He is surrounded by a terrific cast. Kurosawa's vision however must ultimately be applauded for managing to show us just how gruesome the Bard's tale is; through the gore and violence, which make Tarantino's films look PG, teaching us the same lessons about war which Shakespeare wanted to teach us.
Striking and breathtaking film, the length of Kurosawa's late masterpiece is of no importance because it is so engrossing. Cannot wait to revisit this film in bluray and see Kurosawa's bold colors again.
This review of Ran (1985) was written by G S on 29 Nov 2011.
Ran has generally received very positive reviews.
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