Samurai Rebellion

上意討ち 拝領妻始末

19672h 1m Directed by Masaki Kobayashi
8.2
(259 votes)
DramaHistoryAction

Overview

The mother of a feudal lord's only heir is kidnapped away from her husband by the lord. The husband and his samurai father must decide whether to accept the unjust decision, or risk death to get her back.

Samurai Rebellion

A Timeless Tale of Honor and Defiance: "Samurai Rebellion" Review

Noura Haddad
Noura HaddadFeb 2, 2026
"Samurai Rebellion" is a thought-provoking and visually stunning film that delves into the complexities of feudal Japan, where honor and loyalty are constantly at odds with personal desire and morality. Directed by Masaki Kobayashi, this 1967 drama tells the story of a samurai family's struggle against the oppressive regime of their lord, and the difficult choices they must make to protect their loved ones. With its richly detailed setting and nuanced character development, "Samurai Rebellion" is a masterpiece of Japanese cinema that continues to resonate with audiences today.

The film's narrative is driven by the kidnapping of Isaburo's wife, Ichi, by the local lord, who seeks to make her one of his concubines. This act of tyranny sets off a chain of events that forces Isaburo and his father, Sasuke, to confront the harsh realities of their social hierarchy and the limitations of their power as samurai. As they navigate this treacherous landscape, they must weigh their duty to their lord against their love for their family and their own sense of honor. The performances of the cast, particularly Toshirô Mifune and Yôko Tsukasa, bring depth and emotion to the story, making the characters' struggles feel deeply personal and relatable.

One of the standout aspects of "Samurai Rebellion" is its thoughtful exploration of the social and cultural context of feudal Japan. The film sheds light on the rigid class structures and the oppressive nature of the samurai regime, where individual freedom is sacrificed for the sake of loyalty and duty. At the same time, it highlights the resilience and dignity of the human spirit, as embodied by the characters' courageous resistance against injustice. The cinematography is also noteworthy, with its striking compositions and use of long takes that immerse the viewer in the world of the film. Overall, "Samurai Rebellion" is a powerful and haunting drama that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll, inviting reflection on the timeless themes of honor, loyalty, and the human condition.

CAST

Toshirō Mifune
Toshirō Mifune
Isaburo Sasahara
Yōko Tsukasa
Yōko Tsukasa
Ichi Sasahara
Gō Katō
Gō Katō
Yogoro Sasahara
Tatsuyoshi Ehara
Tatsuyoshi Ehara
Bunzo Sasahara
Etsuko Ichihara
Etsuko Ichihara
Kiku
Isao Yamagata
Isao Yamagata
Shobei Tsuchiya
Tatsuya Nakadai
Tatsuya Nakadai
Tatewaki Asano
Shigeru Kōyama
Shigeru Kōyama
Geki Takahashi
Michiko Otsuka
Michiko Otsuka
Suga Sasahara
Tatsuo Matsumura
Tatsuo Matsumura
Lord Masakata Matsudaira

Trailer

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