Toshiro Mifune is an iconic Japanese actor and producer, and his collaborations with renowned directors, particularly Akira Kurosawa, changed the world’s perception of Japanese films. Mifune is recognized for his intensity, physical presence, and adaptability, portraying various 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 Japanese cinema’s artistic excellence and impacted the film industry throughout his career.
Mifune’s expertise extended beyond working with Kurosawa. He collaborated with arguably worked with some of the best directors of all time, such as Masaki Kobayashi and John Boorman, showcasing his versatility and global star power. Whether depicting a battle-weary soldier, a determined detective, or an expert samurai, Mifune elevated every role with unparalleled charisma and depth. His influence on cinema resonates today, as his finest films captivate 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 revolves around the bond between Dr. Kyojō Niide, portrayed by Toshiro Mifune, and a young, optimistic doctor, Yasumoto, who is reluctantly assigned to the clinic. Dr. Niide, known as Red Beard due to his fiery temperament and reddish facial hair, is an experienced physician who educates the younger doctor about humanity and the harsh realities of poverty in their country. The film vividly portrays 19th-century Japan, emphasizing the disparities between the upper and lower classes.
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Mifune’s depiction of Red Beard is exceptional, presenting an authoritative and compassionate character with his understated physical presence and profound emotional depth. While Red Beard lacks the action-packed intensity of Mifune’s samurai depictions, it is notable for the maturity of his performance. The 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 mightn’t pull in all audiences, but Mifune’s performance is deeply poignant, offering a dignified 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 play, 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.
Though the film used a lot of creative license and changed language and setting,
Throne of Blood
is often considered one of the best film adaptations of
Macbeth
ever produced. Director Kurosawa believed that Scotland and Japan (at the time shown on film) shared many similar social problems.
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 striking aspects of the performance—whether horseback riding through misty forests or enduring the torments of guilt, his body conveys his internal thoughts and feelings. The film’s gripping atmosphere creates an oppressive tension, and Mifune’s intense performance anchors this tragic tale. Although Throne of Blood is not as widely recognized as his best Samurai film, it showcases Mifune’s versatility, blending theatrical, raw emotion and brute physicality in one of his most iconic portrayals.
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 faithful guard of a princess attempting to flee across enemy lines with the assistance of two hapless peasants. The film is an adventure tale infused with humor, suspense, and some incredibly grand action sequences, representing one of Kurosawa’s initial ventures into widescreen filmmaking. As the General, Mifune brings a trusted authority to the role, guiding the princess and the peasants through difficult terrain and showcasing expert swordsmanship.
The Hidden Fortress
was the fourth highest-grossing film of the year in Japan and director Akira Kurosawa’s most successful film to that point. Its massive cultural impact is highlighted by the fact that it significantly influenced the iconic 1977 American film
Star Wars
.
This film stands out for Mifune’s compelling performance and impact on culturally significant cinema, famously inspiring George Lucas’s 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 films, it remains an integral part of his work for its blend of comedy and actions throughout the story. The film’s entertainment value 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 who seeks revenge against a corrupt corporation responsible for his father’s untimely death. The movie begins with an unforgettable scene at an elaborate corporate wedding, where Nishi’s plan for revenge starts to unfold. Kurosawa’s modern interpretation of Hamlet (similar to his work on Shakespeare’s inspired Throne Of Blood) is filled with 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.
|
Film Collaboration Between Toshiro Mifune And Akira Kurosawa: |
Year Released: |
|---|---|
|
Drunken Angel |
1948 |
|
The Silent Duel |
1949 |
|
Stray Dog |
1949 |
|
Scandal |
1950 |
|
Rashomon |
1950 |
|
The Idiot |
1951 |
|
Seven Samurai |
1954 |
|
I Live In Fear |
1955 |
|
Throne Of Blood |
1957 |
|
The Lower Depths |
1957 |
|
The Hidden Fortress |
1958 |
|
The Bad Sleep Well |
1960 |
|
Yojimbo |
1961 |
|
Sanjuro |
1962 |
|
High And Low |
1963 |
|
Red Beard |
1965 |
In contrast to many of Mifune’s roles that often emphasize his physical stature, The Bad Sleep Well demonstrates his ability to portray more modern, intellectual characters. His controlled performance reflects a man who is simmering with rage but hides behind a composed exterior, making the film’s final part incredibly captivating. While 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 vengeance 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 lord to defend his family’s honor. When his son is forced into an unwanted marriage with a former lord’s mistress, Isaburo eventually rebels against the injustices inflicted upon himself and his family. The film’s gradual buildup of tension erupts into a compelling final act, filled with emotional angst and gruesome revenge. Mifune portrays Isaburo with a dignified restraint and only unleashes his fury when he is left with no other option.
The film is based on a short story of the same name by Yasuhiko Takiguchi.
Samurai Rebellion is one of Mifune’s most subtle performances, but it stands out the test of time due to the profound emotional impact he brings to the role. His depiction of a man conflicted between duty and personal belief is moving, and the film’s examination of loyalty and defiance in a rigid social structure is beautifully constructed. Mifune’s capacity to convey profound emotional conflict makes this one of his most potent 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 humor, as Mifune’s gruff yet wise ronin guides the young men with a mix of exasperation and muted amusement. The film concludes with an exhilarating final duel, again showcasing Mifune’s expert swordsmanship in his leadership roles.
Sanjuro
is a sequel to Kurosawa’s 1961 film,
Yojimbo
. Originally an adaptation of the Shūgorō Yamamoto novel
Hibi Heian
, the original script was altered following the sensational success of
Yojimbo
, to incorporate the lead character of that film into
Sanjuro
.
Sanjuro‘s perfect blend of humor and action places it high on this list. Mifune’s portrayal of the wise yet 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 film’s final moments display his ability to transition between lightheartedness and deadly seriousness.
4 Rashomon (1950)
Japanese Jidaigeki Film Co-Written And Directed By Akira Kurosawa
Kurosawa’s Rashomon is a film that defied 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 go on to 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.
Rashomon
was the first Japanese film to attain a significant international reception, garnering critical acclaim and winning the Best Foreign Language Film at the 24th Academy Awards.
Mifune’s portrayal of Tajomaru is captivating, drawing viewers into the bandit’s unpredictable and intense nature. His performance continually evolves with each retelling of the story, showcasing his versatility and ability to convey multiple facets of the same character quickly. Rashomon is not just a crucial 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. Though part of the subject matter is sensitive, Mifune’s role is incredibly complex and makes for one of his most memorable roles, significantly contributing 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 rival factions wanting 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, insolent 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 tension secure its place as one of the greatest samurai films of all time.
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Mifune’s performance in Yojimbo is nothing short of iconic. He weaves together cleverness with rugged charm, leaving a lasting impression on the 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 pinnacle of his career, securing its position near the top of this list.
2 High And Low (1963)
Also Translated As ‘Heaven And Hell’
High and Low is a gripping, tense crime thriller that tracks the journey of a wealthy businessman, Kingo Gondo (Mifune), who faces a moral dilemma when his chauffeur’s son is mistakenly kidnapped in lieu of his own. Gondo is compelled to choose between his wealth and rescuing the child whose life is now in danger while navigating the intricate dynamics of wanting to succeed in a business while keeping 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.
Kurosawa’s ever-masterful direction, combined with Mifune’s multilayered performance, cements
High And Low
as one of the greatest crime dramas of its era and potentially of all time.
Mifune’s portrayal 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. The film is elevated by Mifune’s ability to evoke sympathy and tension as the audience witnesses his impossible choices. Kurosawa’s ever-masterful direction, combined with Mifune’s multilayered performance, cements High And Low as one of the greatest crime dramas ever. Its examination of ethical dilemmas combined with the spotlight on the divide 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
Regarded as 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 peasant masquerading as a legendary samurai. His performance contributes significantly to the film’s emotional infrastructure, blending humor, tragedy, and raw emotion. As the narrative unfolds, Kikuchiyo transforms from a comical outsider at the edge of the plot to a tragic hero, exposing his deep-seated yearning for acceptance by the samurai he initially impersonated.
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Mifune’s portrayal in Seven Samurai is undeniably legendary. He infuses Kikuchiyo with boundless energy, physicality, and real emotional depth, rendering him one of the film’s most intricate and memorable characters. His ability to go between comedic antics and moments of profound sorrow makes Seven Samurai a defining cinema experience. The film’s grand scale, epic cinematography, emotional impact, and perfect direction have solidified 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.
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10/10 9/10 Seven Samurai ActionDrama
Directed by legendary Japanese filmmaker Akira Kurosawa, Seven Samurai is an epic Drama and Samurai film that revolves around a group of farmers in 1586 Japan that band together to hire Ronin to help protect themselves and their families from bandits that plan to steal from them.
Director Akira Kurosawa Release Date April 26, 1954 Studio(s) Columbia Pictures Distributor(s) Columbia Pictures Writers Akira Kurosawa Cast Toshiro Mifune , Takashi Shimura , Kamatari Fujiwara , Daisuke Katô , Yukiko Shimazaki , Isao Kimura , Minoru Chiaki Runtime 207 Minutes Budget $580,000 Main Genre Action Expand