Truly Epic Movie

Rating: 10/10 (16 December 2007)

Akira Kurosawa directed a truly epic movie in every sense. An amazing adaptation of Shakespeares play King Lear, it shows the fall of a great warlord Hidetora Ichimonji and the destruction of his family. Greed and power consume many of the characters including two of his children. The Great Warlord in his attempt to step down, attempted to give his power to his eldest son and live out the rest of his life with his children. His youngest son Sabaro didn't agree with this and didn't trust his brothers ability to be loyal. The Warlord picks the children who are more willing to show there affection and his downfall starts there.
Although slow and drawn out in many scenes Kurosawa does an amazing job showing the size of the battles. The choice to have no music during the Castle raid brought me closer to the battle. Hidetora losing his mind in the tower, and being subject to the barrage of arrows and bullets was one of the most captivating scenes i've ever watched. My favorite character Hidetora's nurse, constantly told the truth. Despite the circumstances he continued to express his feelings and not only added humor when needed, but also only spoke the truth about what was happening in the movie. The blend of epic battles and amazing character depth makes this a truly great movie.