Akira Kurosawa's "Throne of Blood" March 18, 2009

One of the most celebrated screen adaptations of Shakespeare, Throne of Blood is director Akira Kurosawa’s impressive retelling of Macbeth set in feudal Japan. Starring Kurosawa’s longtime collaborator Toshiro Mifune and the legendary Isuzu Yamada as his ruthless wife, the film follows a valiant samurai’s savage rise to power and ignominious demise. The tragic tale begins as warriors Washizu and Miki find themselves lost in an impenetrable forest during a powerful thunderstorm. Caught in the wood’s dense web, they encounter an eerie spirit that predicts Washizu’s ascendance to the throne. Haunted by the prophesy and poisoned by his wife, Washizu embarks on a murderously ambitious path to fulfill his destiny.

Combining the aesthetics of Japanese noh theater with unparalleled cinematic artistry, Throne of Blood is a must see for everyone who appreciates film, loves Shakespeare, or has an interest in Japanese culture.

Japanese with English subtitles. 105 minutes, 1957. Directed by Akira Kurosawa

This event is free and open to the public. Seating is limited and granted on a first come, first served basis. Reservations required. Please send your name, affiliation, the number in your party, and the names of your guests, to: [email protected]

Official Website: http://www.us.emb-japan.go.jp/jicc/index.htm