Kurosawa

Although Japanese director Akira Kurosawa was revered around the world as one of cinema's towering figures, in his own country he sadly fell out of favor in his later years (his last film, Madadayo, made in 1993, did not find a distributor until 1998, the year of his death). In the humanist tradition of its subject, Adam Low's intimate documentary, narrated by Sam Shepard, offers up a long overdue tribute. In addition to featuring a treasure trove of film clips from such masterworks as Rashomon, The Seven Samurai and Ran, and interviews with the filmmaker, film historians, family members, and such admirers as Steven Spielberg and Clint Eastwood, this revealing program also includes excerpts from Kurosawa's autobiography read by actor Paul Scofield. While a bit ponderous at times, the inclusion of clips from lesser-known films (such as The Men Who Tread on the Tiger's Tail), coupled with poignant production footage that captures Kurosawa directing what would be the last shot of his final film, is certain to galvanize film buffs. The DVD includes an additional 90 minutes of bonus interview footage. Recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (K. Lee Benson)