Ran (1985)

Detailed Summary

Introduction and Setting

Ran is a 1985 epic historical drama film directed by Akira Kurosawa. The film is inspired by William Shakespeare’s play King Lear and serves as a Japanese period drama set in the Sengoku period. It explores themes of power, betrayal, chaos, and the destructive nature of war. The film stars Tatsuya Nakadai, Akira Terao, Jinpachi Nezu, and Daisuke Ryu.

The Story Unfolds

The Division of Power

The film begins with Hidetora Ichimonji (Tatsuya Nakadai), an aging warlord, announcing his decision to divide his kingdom among his three sons: Taro (Akira Terao), Jiro (Jinpachi Nezu), and Saburo (Daisuke Ryu). Hidetora plans to retire and let his sons rule, expecting peace and harmony. However, Saburo challenges his father’s decision, predicting chaos, and is subsequently banished.

The Betrayal

As soon as Hidetora relinquishes power, Taro and Jiro, driven by ambition and influenced by their ruthless wives, begin to betray their father. Taro, the eldest, takes over the First Castle but quickly demonstrates his lack of respect and loyalty to Hidetora. Jiro, the middle son, soon follows, leading to a devastating family conflict.

The Climax and Resolution

The Fall of Hidetora

Hidetora’s decline is marked by madness and despair as he witnesses the collapse of his once-powerful empire. His former retainers turn against him, and he becomes a fugitive, wandering the wilderness and facing the brutality of his sons’ power struggles. His journey is filled with tragic encounters and reflections on his past sins.

The Battle for Power

Jiro eventually usurps Taro, leading to further bloodshed and treachery. The film’s climax is a massive battle, showcasing Kurosawa’s signature epic action sequences. The warring factions destroy each other, leaving a landscape of devastation and sorrow.

The Conclusion

Tragic End

The film concludes with Hidetora dying in a final, poignant moment of madness and regret. Saburo, who returns to save his father, is killed, symbolizing the ultimate failure of loyalty and honor. The film ends on a bleak note, with the Ichimonji clan annihilated and their lands left in ruin, reflecting the film’s themes of chaos and the futility of war.

Movie Ending

Ran ends with the complete destruction of the Ichimonji family, symbolizing the tragic consequences of ambition, betrayal, and the relentless cycle of violence. The final scene shows a blind man standing alone on a cliff, a powerful image of desolation and despair.

Post-Credits Scene

There are no post-credits scenes in Ran.

Type of Movie

Ran is an epic historical drama that blends elements of tragedy, action, and philosophical meditation on human nature and the destructive power of ambition.

Cast

• Tatsuya Nakadai as Hidetora Ichimonji
• Akira Terao as Taro Takatora Ichimonji
• Jinpachi Nezu as Jiro Masatora Ichimonji
• Daisuke Ryu as Saburo Naotora Ichimonji
• Mieko Harada as Lady Kaede
• Yoshiko Miyazaki as Lady Sue
• Hisashi Igawa as Shuri Kurogane

Film Music and Composer

The film’s score was composed by Toru Takemitsu, whose music enhances the film’s epic scope and emotional depth, incorporating traditional Japanese instruments and orchestral arrangements.

Filming Locations

Ran was filmed in various locations in Japan, including:

• Mount Aso, Kumamoto: For battle scenes.
• Himeji Castle: For exterior shots of Hidetora’s castles.
• Various locations in Kyoto and Kumamoto Prefectures for scenic and battle sequences.

Awards and Nominations

Ran received numerous prestigious awards, including:

• Academy Awards: Won Best Costume Design (Emi Wada). Nominated for Best Director (Akira Kurosawa), Best Cinematography, and Best Art Direction.
• Golden Globe Awards: Nominated for Best Foreign Language Film.
• BAFTA Awards: Won Best Foreign Language Film and Best Make Up. Nominated for Best Director, Best Cinematography, and Best Costume Design.

Behind the Scenes Insights

• Akira Kurosawa spent a decade planning and storyboarding Ran, creating detailed paintings for each scene.
• The film’s production was notably challenging, involving large-scale battles with hundreds of extras and elaborate sets.
• Kurosawa’s vision for the film included meticulously designed costumes and makeup to reflect the characters’ inner turmoil and the overarching themes of chaos and destruction.

Inspirations and References

Ran is heavily inspired by Shakespeare’s King Lear and Japanese historical events during the Sengoku period. The film incorporates traditional Japanese aesthetics and Kurosawa’s deep understanding of human psychology and societal conflicts.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

The final cut of Ran closely follows Kurosawa’s vision. Some deleted scenes and additional content are available in special editions and DVD releases, providing further context and character development.

Book Adaptations and Differences

Ran is not directly adapted from a book but is inspired by Shakespeare’s King Lear. The film diverges from the play by incorporating Japanese historical elements and altering character arcs to fit the cultural context.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

• Hidetora’s decision to divide his kingdom among his sons.
• The betrayal and humiliation of Hidetora by his sons.
• The massive battle scenes depicting the chaos and brutality of war.
• Hidetora’s descent into madness and his encounters with former retainers.
• The tragic death of Saburo and the final demise of Hidetora.

Iconic Quotes

• “In a mad world, only the mad are sane.” – Kyoami
• “Men prefer sorrow over joy… suffering over peace.” – Kyoami
• “Man is born crying. When he has cried enough, he dies.” – Kyoami

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

• The film’s use of color is symbolic, with each son’s army represented by different colors to reflect their personalities and the evolving power dynamics.
• The intricate costumes and makeup are not only historically accurate but also serve to highlight the psychological states of the characters.

Trivia

• The film’s budget was approximately $11 million, making it one of the most expensive Japanese films at the time.
• Tatsuya Nakadai’s portrayal of Hidetora required extensive makeup and prosthetics to depict the character’s aging and madness.
• Kurosawa’s detailed storyboards and pre-production planning are considered masterpieces in their own right, showcasing his vision and dedication to the film.

Why Watch?

Ran offers a visually stunning and emotionally powerful exploration of ambition, betrayal, and the human condition. Its epic scale, masterful direction, and deep philosophical themes make it a must-watch for fans of historical dramas and classic cinema.

Director’s Other Movies

Akira Kurosawa also directed:

• Seven Samurai (1954)
• Rashomon (1950)
• Yojimbo (1961)
• Throne of Blood (1957)
• Ikiru (1952)

Recommended Films for Fans

• King Lear (1983)
• Throne of Blood (1957)
• Braveheart (1995)
• The Last Samurai (2003)
• The Seven Samurai (1954)