Ran – 40th Anniversary [35mm] (15)

Ran (which translates as ‘turmoil’) is Kurosawa’s retelling of Shakespeare’s King Lear intertwined with the historical backdrop of Japan’s 16th century Civil Wars and the legendary tale of Morikawa, a feudal warlord with three sons. Kurosawa’s final film was immediately recognised as a masterpiece upon its release and garnered numerous awards.

Hidetora Ichimonji is an ageing warlord who, after spending his life consolidating his empire, decides to abdicate and divide his kingdom amongst his three sons, Taro, Jiro and Saburo.

When Hidetora’s youngest son Saburo voices concerns about his father’s plan, Hidetora banishes him. This allows Taro and Jiro to take the reins of power unopposed, leading to a brutal and bloody struggle to win absolute power.

Majestic in scope, Ran is a profound examination of the folly of war and the crumbling of one family under the weight of betrayal, greed and the insatiable thirst for power.

Back in cinemas to celebrate the 40th anniversary, we will be screening Kurosawa’s epic action drama from a new 35mm print.

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