Mifune: The Last Samurai (2016)

Summary
"Mifune: The Last Samurai" is a 2016 documentary directed by Steven Okazaki that explores the life and career of renowned Japanese actor, Toshiro Mifune. Known for his iconic roles in classic Samurai films, Mifune was a figure that really pioneered the Samurai category, enjoyed effective partnerships with famous filmmaker, Akira Kurosawa, and developed an extensive influence in international cinema.

Material and Style
The film employs a timeless documentary style featuring interviews, archival video, and movie excerpts to light up Mifune's extraordinary career. It sets the stage by introducing audiences to the history of Samurai films pre-dating Mifune, focusing on the silent era and approximately the 1940s, thus providing a context to the actor's impact on the transformation of that genre. Prominent film figures such as Steven Spielberg and Martin Scorsese contribute their insights, with Keanu Reeves working as the storyteller.

Mifune's Early Life and Career
The documentary looks into Mifune's early life, tracing his birth in China to Japanese parents, his preparing into the Japanese Imperial Army throughout World War II, and his post-war years. It was throughout this time Mifune got his break into films through an open call audition at Toho Studios. His indisputable talent caused his discovery by Akira Kurosawa.

Partnership with Akira Kurosawa
The movie checks out the respected partnership in between Mifune and Kurosawa that led to 16 films, many of which are thought about cinematic work of arts. Films like "Rashomon", "Seven Samurai", "Yojimbo", and "The Hidden Fortress" - were innovative in their storytelling and technical technique, and Mifune's performances were instrumental to their success. Their partnership was identified by a type of cinematic symbiosis, with Kurosawa's vision completely matched by Mifune's extreme, non-traditional efficiencies.

Mifune's Influence
"Mifune: The Last Samurai" highlights the profound effect Mifune had on global movie theater. His distinct design interested both Eastern and Western audiences, redefining the representation of Samurai on screen, and blurring the line between hero and antihero. His impact can be seen in later movies, famously inspiring the character of Clint Eastwood in the Sergio Leone Spaghetti Westerns.

Personal Life and Later Career
The documentary does not avoid the more unstable aspects of Mifune's life, including his difficult relationship with popularity, his battles with alcohol, and the ultimate fallout with Kurosawa. In spite of this, Mifune continued to make films till his death in 1997.

Conclusion
"Mifune: The Last Samurai" serves as a fascinating homage to an actor who had a countless influence on movie. It offers insight into Mifune as a guy and an artist and affirms his standing as a cinematic legend. The movie highlights Mifune's legacy in contemporary cinema, resonating with movie enthusiasts and critics alike.

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