I finally picked up Kurosawa’s Throne of Blood, which had been lying with me for a few years. Kurosawa’s films are a treat to watch and ofcourse, Rashomon is a must for film/literature lovers.
Based on Macbeth, the film follows the Samurai commander Washizu (played by the very charming and able Toshiro Mifune) who hears a prophecy by a forest spirit declaring him first, the master of the North castle and next, as the Lord of the Spider Web Castle. As the first prediction comes true, Washizu, pushed by his ambitious wife Asaji, kills the current lord and takes over his position.
However, the forest spirit also foretold that another commander’s son would become the Lord after Washizu, who then spirals into an endless and a frantic struggle to maintain his power.
The movie, like the play it is based on, deals with the question of predestination and free will. Predestination becomes the cover for actions that are fuelled by ambition and ruthlessness (classic Shakespeare!).
The film is beautifully-shot and has few dialogues. There is vast emptiness and ominous sounds, which just seem to highlight the troubled minds of the protagonist. Lady Asaji portrays her madness and villainy with ease and brilliance. Washizu, led by his wife’s direction, commits what he thinks is his destiny. (But we know better)
Themes of prophecy/predestination and free will are a source of delight and/or discussion, at least for me. Another recent reference that comes to mind is of course Harry Potter. I would love to watch more movies dealing with this theme. Any ideas?
p.s. Lord Krishna is another one!
