Welcome back to Dark Corners Physical Media Reviews. We're looking at StudioCanal's 40th anniversary release of Akira Kurosawa's magisterial "Ran" in 4K and Blu-ray. In English, the title means chaos, and the film depicts a descent into chaos in many ways.
Based on Shakespeare's "King Lear," Kurosawa uses the medieval setting to explore themes of war and madness. The film is noted for its painterly compositions and vivid color palette, with scenes mapped out in paintings long before shooting began. The special features on this release cover the film's lengthy production history and include interviews with producers.
The release comes with a stunning illustrated box, although the artwork choice may not appeal to everyone. A 100-page booklet provides essays and background information. Special features include behind-the-scenes footage, historical insights, and interviews with key contributors.
Ran's production was marked by challenges, notably in securing financial backing, eventually obtained from France. Although most special features are in French, the comprehensive 70-minute documentary on the making of "Ran" is a highlight.
As a film, "Ran" is an extraordinary achievement recognized for its breathtaking scale and deep insights into human nature, particularly the futility of war. It stands as a testament to Kurosawa's brilliance and marks his final masterpiece.
Note that the box set has sold out and is now available at higher prices on the secondary market, but the 4K version remains widely accessible.
