directed by: Akira Kurosawa, year: 1962
actors: Toshiro Mifune

Sanjuro is Akira Kurosawa’s brisk 1962 samurai drama and a sequel to Yojimbo. Toshiro Mifune stars as the wily ronin Sanjuro, who drifts into a village torn by two rival factions and, with wry wit and precise swordplay, manipulates the schemers to avert bloodshed. The film blends lean plotting, taut action, and sharp social commentary as Sanjuro exposes greed and ambition within a collapsing clan. Kurosawa’s composition, pacing, and Mifune’s magnetic presence define a masterfully entertaining swordplay showcase.

Edo Period, Jidaigeki, Samurai Film, Action, Drama, Satire