The 1950s marked a transformative period in Japanese cinema, and is often considered as a golden age. This decade witnessed the emergence of films that not only revolutionized Japanese filmmaking but also garnered international acclaim, solidifying Japan’s place as one of the best countries in the world for making films. Famous directors like Akira Kurosawa, Yasujirō Ozu, and Kenji Mizoguchi pushed the boundaries of storytelling and cinematography, creating works that are as relevant today as they were at the time of their release. The films of this era range from intimate family dramas to epic historical narratives, each offering a unique window into Japanese culture, society, and the human experience. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best Japanese films of the 50s.
10. Early Summer – Yasujirō Ozu (1951)
“Early Summer,” directed by Yasujirō Ozu, is a thoughtful exploration of post-war Japanese family life. The story centers on Noriko, played by Setsuko Hara, a young woman whose family is eager to see her married. Noriko, however, has her own ideas about her future, asserting her independence in a society where such actions were becoming increasingly common. Noriko’s decisions reflect the evolving roles of women in Japan, creating a narrative that resonates with both contemporary and modern audiences. The film captures the subtle shifts in Japanese society at the time, depicting everyday life with a delicate balance of humor and seriousness.
Ozu’s signature style, characterized by static camera positions and a low camera angle, gives a unique perspective on the family’s dynamics. “Early Summer” skillfully portrays the generational conflicts and societal changes through its narrative and character interactions. The film’s exploration of family dynamics and individual desires offers a window into the cultural shifts of 1950s Japan. The film is celebrated for its naturalistic performances and Ozu’s masterful ability to capture the beauty of the mundane. Its nuanced portrayal of family and society has ensured its enduring appeal and relevance, making it a cherished film due to its gentle storytelling and its insightful depiction of changing family values in post-war Japan.
9. Ugetsu – Kenji Mizoguchi (1953)
“Ugetsu,” directed by Kenji Mizoguchi and released in 1953, is a haunting tale set in 16th-century Japan, during a time of civil war, which tells the stories of two peasant couples whose lives are disrupted by the war. One of the men becomes obsessed with becoming a samurai, while the other is seduced by a mysterious woman who may not be of this world. “Ugetsu” is a blend of historical drama and ghostly folklore, melding the harsh realities of war with the ethereal world of spirits. The film’s exploration of the human condition and the impact of war on ordinary lives gives it a timeless relevance.
Mizoguchi’s use of long takes and minimalistic camera movement creates a dreamlike atmosphere that enhances the film’s ethereal quality. “Ugetsu” is renowned for its visual storytelling, poetic narrative, and the subtle yet powerful performances of its cast. The black and white cinematography, with its play on light and shadow, contributes to the film’s otherworldly ambiance. The film is considered a masterpiece of Japanese cinema, praised for its blend of realism and fantasy. Its enduring legacy in the world of cinema is marked by its artistic beauty and profound storytelling. “Ugetsu” has been influential in its stylistic approach to filmmaking and remains a powerful exploration of human desires and their consequences, making it one of the best Japanese films of the 50s.
8. Throne of Blood – Akira Kurosawa (1957)
“Throne of Blood,” directed by Akira Kurosawa, is a masterful adaptation of Shakespeare’s “Macbeth,” set in feudal Japan. The film follows the ambitious warrior Washizu, played by Toshiro Mifune, who, spurred by a prophecy and his manipulative wife, seeks to seize power. Washizu’s rise and fall are depicted with intense drama and powerful imagery, capturing the essence of the Shakespearean tragedy within the context of samurai culture. Mirroring the original play’s themes of ambition, guilt, and fate, Kurosawa’s version stands out for its blend of Japanese Noh theatre elements with Shakespearean tragedy.
Kurosawa’s direction and the film’s atmospheric cinematography create a brooding and tense mood that captivates the viewer, with the eerie forest scenes and the use of fog particularly adding to the film’s haunting atmosphere. “Throne of Blood” is known for its innovative interpretation of the classic play and its dramatic, stylized battle scenes. Mifune’s portrayal of Washizu is both commanding and tragic, bringing depth to the character’s moral descent, ensuring that “Throne of Blood” remains one of Kurosawa’s most acclaimed films, admired for its artistic vision and its powerful adaptation of one of Shakespeare’s greatest works.
7. Rashomon – Akira Kurosawa (1950)
“Rashomon,” another entry directed by the legendary Akira Kurosawa, is a groundbreaking film that explores the nature of truth and perception. The film presents multiple perspectives of the same incident – the assault of a woman and the murder of her husband in a forest. Each account is told by different characters, including a bandit, the woman, the dead husband through a medium, and a woodcutter. This exploration of differing perspectives highlights the elusive nature of truth and reality, making “Rashomon” challenge the viewer to consider the subjectivity of truth and the complexities of human nature.
Kurosawa’s innovative narrative structure and use of flashbacks were revolutionary at the time and have since influenced countless filmmakers and spawned many tributes and remakes. “Rashomon” is not just a compelling drama but a philosophical inquiry into the human psyche. The film’s impact on the art of cinematic storytelling is immeasurable, inspiring the term ‘Rashomon effect’ to describe contradictory interpretations of the same event. The film’s visual style, including its use of light and shadow, contributes to the overall mystery and ambiguity. Its enduring relevance in discussions about perspective and reality cements its status as a standout work, easily making it one of the best Japanese films of the 50s. “Rashomon” has become a classic of world cinema, known for its profound impact on film narrative and its deep exploration of the elusive nature of truth and memory.
6. Sansho the Bailiff – Kenji Mizoguchi (1954)
“Sansho the Bailiff,” directed by Kenji Mizoguchi, is a deeply moving historical drama set in feudal Japan. The story revolves around a brother and sister who are sold into slavery after their father, a nobleman, is exiled. Separated from their mother, the siblings endure hardship and cruelty under the rule of the merciless bailiff Sansho. This heart-wrenching narrative captures the struggles of the siblings as they dream of reuniting with their mother, symbolizing the resilience of the human spirit. The film is a deeply powerful tale of suffering, injustice, and the enduring human spirit.
Mizoguchi’s film is a masterful blend of poetic storytelling and social commentary, with its themes resonating with timeless relevance, addressing issues of social injustice and the quest for freedom. The director’s use of long takes and fluid camera movement creates a sense of elegance and emotional depth. “Sansho the Bailiff” is celebrated for its compelling narrative, exquisite cinematography, and powerful themes of empathy and resilience. Its impact on Japanese cinema is profound, leaving a lasting impression with its unique approach to storytelling and its evocative portrayal of human endurance. The film remains a high point in Mizoguchi’s career and a masterpiece of Japanese cinema, lauded for its humanity and its artistic brilliance.
5. The Human Condition II: Road to Eternity – Masaki Kobayashi (1959)
“The Human Condition II: Road to Eternity,” directed by Masaki Kobayashi, is the second installment in the epic trilogy depicting the life of Kaji, a conscientious Japanese pacifist. In this chapter, Kaji, having survived labor camp horrors, is conscripted into the Imperial Japanese Army. As he faces the brutal realities of military life during World War II, Kaji struggles to maintain his humanitarian beliefs amidst the harshness and cruelty of war. The film is an unflinching portrayal of the dehumanizing effects of war, showcasing the conflicts between individual values and the demands of a militaristic society. The film continues to explore themes of humanity, ethics, and the moral dilemmas faced in times of conflict.
Kobayashi’s direction skillfully portrays the transformation of Kaji’s character as he navigates the complexities of war and moral compromise. The film is a powerful indictment of war’s brutality and the suffering it inflicts on individuals, acclaimed for its powerful storytelling, stark realism, and its deep exploration of human nature under duress. “The Human Condition II: Road to Eternity” is an emotional and impactful war drama, highlighting the tragic futility of war and the resilience of the human spirit. Its stark portrayal of the contradictions and struggles within the human heart makes it one of the best Japanese films of the 50s. It is not only a critical part of the trilogy but also stands on its own as an influential work in Japanese cinema, known for its profound narrative and cinematic mastery.
4. Tokyo Story – Yasujirō Ozu (1953)
“Tokyo Story,” directed by Yasujirō Ozu, is a touching and contemplative film about family relationships in post-war Japan. The story focuses on an elderly couple who travel to Tokyo to visit their adult children, only to find themselves largely neglected and passed between their busy offspring. The film examines the generational gap, the decay of traditional family values in a modernizing Japan, and the loneliness of old age. Its portrayal of the bittersweet nature of familial relationships and the quiet struggles of its characters is both moving and insightful. “Tokyo Story” is a subtle yet deeply emotional portrayal of everyday life and the inevitable changes brought by time.
Ozu’s minimalist style, characterized by static camera shots and a focus on the ordinary, fills the film with a profound sense of realism and empathy. “Tokyo Story” is celebrated for its quiet, understated narrative, and the nuanced performances of its cast, particularly Chishu Ryu and Chieko Higashiyama as the elderly couple. The pacing and storytelling reflect the beauty in life’s simplicity and the unspoken emotions within a family. The film is often regarded as one of the greatest Japanese films ever made, praised for its emotional depth and Ozu’s signature storytelling technique. Its legacy continues to influence filmmakers and audiences alike, serving as a powerful reminder of the enduring bonds and changes within families.
3. The Human Condition I: No Greater Love – Masaki Kobayashi (1959)
“The Human Condition I: No Greater Love,” the first film in Masaki Kobayashi’s monumental trilogy, was released in 1959. It introduces the character of Kaji, a pacifist and humanist, who finds himself in the midst of the atrocities of World War II. Appointed as a labor supervisor in a Japanese-controlled mine in Manchuria, Kaji confronts the brutal realities of forced labor and the moral complexities of working within an oppressive system. He is faced with the challenge of balancing his own moral compass with the demands of an unjust war system. The film is a profound examination of the struggle to uphold one’s ideals in the face of inhumanity and conflict.
Kobayashi’s film is renowned for its epic scale, powerful storytelling, and its unflinching portrayal of the human cost of war. Tatsuya Nakadai delivers a compelling performance as Kaji, embodying the inner conflict of a man torn between his principles and the harsh realities of his environment. Through Kaji’s eyes, the audience witnesses the profound impact of war on individuals and society. “The Human Condition I: No Greater Love” sets the tone for the rest of the trilogy, offering a stark, powerful critique of war and the impact of Japan’s imperialist policies, ensuring its place as one of the best Japanese films of the 50s.
2. Ikiru – Akira Kurosawa (1952)
“Ikiru,” directed by Akira Kurosawa, is a profound and moving drama about the search for meaning in life. The film follows Kanji Watanabe, a bureaucratic city office worker who learns he has terminal cancer. Facing his mortality, Watanabe is compelled to look for significance in his final days, leading to a journey of self-discovery and redemption. “Ikiru,” which translates to “To Live,” explores themes of existential despair, the beauty of life, and the quest for lasting legacy. It is an emotional depiction of a man’s struggle against the indifference of the bureaucratic machine and his own personal awakening.
Kurosawa’s film is lauded for its emotional depth and its exploration of the human condition. Takashi Shimura delivers a heart-wrenching performance as Watanabe, masterfully portraying the transformation of a man from despair to purposeful action. “Ikiru” is known for its powerful and relatable narrative, beautiful cinematography, and its capacity to inspire introspection in its viewers. The film’s impactful storytelling and profound themes resonate deeply, making it a timeless classic. It remains one of Kurosawa’s most revered works, a testament to the power of cinema in exploring and affirming the value of life. “Ikiru” is not just a film but a life-affirming experience that challenges viewers to contemplate their own existence.
1. Seven Samurai – Akira Kurosawa (1954)
“Seven Samurai,” yet another entry directed by Akira Kurosawa, is a landmark film in the samurai genre and is widely considered a cinematic masterpiece. The story is set in 16th-century Japan and follows a village of farmers who hire seven ronin (masterless samurai) to protect them from marauding bandits. The film chronicles the samurai’s efforts to defend the village, leading to an epic and climactic battle. It explores themes of social class and the bond formed between the samurai and the villagers they defend, making “Seven Samurai” a timeless and universal tale of courage, sacrifice, and the complexities of heroism.
Kurosawa’s epic is celebrated for its dynamic character development, innovative cinematography, and gripping action sequences. The film’s ensemble cast delivers powerful performances, bringing depth to each of their distinct characters. It’s influence on global cinema cannot be overstated, inspiring countless adaptations and remakes, while also helping to popularise the team-based action narrative. Toshiro Mifune’s performance as the wild and unpredictable samurai, Kikuchiyo, is also iconic, helping to cement his position as one of the greatest Japanese actors of all time. “Seven Samurai” is not just a cornerstone of Japanese cinema but a global cinematic treasure, revered for its storytelling, technical prowess, and its exploration of the human spirit, solidifying its place as one of the best Japanese films of the 50s.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best Japanese films of the 50s:
- Early Summer – Yasujirō Ozu (1951)
- Ugetsu – Kenji Mizoguchi (1953)
- Throne of Blood – Akira Kurosawa (1957)
- Rashomon – Akira Kurosawa (1950)
- Sansho the Bailiff – Kenji Mizoguchi (1954)
- The Human Condition II: Road to Eternity – Masaki Kobayashi (1959)
- Tokyo Story – Yasujirō Ozu (1953)
- The Human Condition I: No Greater Love – Masaki Kobayashi (1959)
- Ikiru – Akira Kurosawa (1952)
- Seven Samurai – Akira Kurosawa (1954)
