DVD Corner

Throne Of Blood Blu-ray Review

“Throne of Blood” is a unique adaptation of Shakespeare’s “Macbeth.”

In “Throne of Blood,” director Akira Kurosawa creates an adaptation of “Macbeth” with a Feudal Japan setting. The story begins with two distinguished Commanders (Washizu and Miki) heading home from battle. Amidst their journey, they come across a creepy old woman spirit who tells the two men that great things lie ahead for both. As they arrive at their destination, the two men realize the spirit was telling the truth when both are promoted (as was predicted). From there on out, Washizu becomes obsessed with making the fortunes come true by any means necessary.

While the “Macbeth” story will always be fascinating in any form, Kurosawa manages to tell the story in a decidedly distinct fashion. From the first frame to the last, Kurosawa makes ‘Throne’ a very dark and haunting tale about human fragility. The film also boasts an otherworldly dreamlike quality which makes it all the more unsettling and effective. Yes, ‘Throne’ does deviate from the source material at times and, yes, the film could use further editing on the drawn out ending, walking or horse riding scenes to help the pacing, but those are not crippling issues by any means.

Kurosawa aside, perhaps the film’s greatest strength lies in actor Toshiro Mifune (who plays Washizu). Mifune does an incredible job with the character’s transformation from an accomplished Commander to a man whose soul is ravaged by his insatiable desire for more power. This performance is proof positive as to why Mifune is considered one of the best (if not the best) Japanese actors. Actress Isuzu Yamada (who plays Asaji AKA Lady Macbeth) also deserves much praise in playing the shrewd, smart, and zealous wife of Washizu.

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 1.37:1 1080p. How does it look? The most impressive aspect of this disc is the picture quality. From the rain and fog covered terrains to the shining battle armor, this hi-def upgrade is simply stunning.

Audio Track: Uncompressed Mono. How does it sound? This is a clean and clear track through and through. No complaints here.

Extras:
* “Throne of Blood” trailer.
* DVD copy.
* A booklet featuring an essay by Stephen Prince and notes on subtitle translations by Linda Hoaglund and Donald Richie.
* “Akira Kurosawa: It Is Wonderful To Create”- A 23 making of “Throne of Blood” documentary that contains archival photos and footage, discussions about Akira Kurosawa and the production of ‘Throne,’ interviews with Kurosawa (and others), film clips, and much more.
* An informative commentary by Japanese film expert Michael Jeck (who has a lively voice).

Overall Thoughts: While not on the level of films such as “Dersu Uzala” or “Ikiru,” “Throne of Blood” is a respectable Kurosawa film nonetheless.

January 7, 2014 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | Akira Kurosawa, Throne Of Blood Blu-ray Review, Throne of Blood Criterion, Throne Of Blood DVD, Toshiro Mifune