Seven Samurai The Criterion Collection
Seven Samurai DVD VIDEO MOVIE 1954 Akira Kurosawa Japanese cinema drama classic
Movie
DVD
Criterion Collection
1998
DVD
$7.99
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SEVEN SAMURAI THE CRITERION COLLECTION
Hailed as the greatest film in the history of Japanese cinema, Seven Samurai is director Akira Kurosawa's undisputed masterpiece. Arguably the greatest of all jidai-gecki (or historical swordplay films), Kurosawa's classic 1954 action drama has captivated audiences worldwide for decades.
The Plot and Its Themes
The story revolves around a small, farming village that is threatened by bandits who plan to raid them after the harvest. In a bold move for the time, the villagers decide to hire a group of seven masterless samurai to protect them. Each samurai possesses unique skills, backgrounds, and motivations, which Kurosawa intricately weaves into a tapestry of heroism, sacrifice, and the exploration of social class. The film explores profound themes such as honor, duty, and the complexities of human nature, all while showcasing the struggles of those on the margins of society.
The Seven Samurai
The ensemble cast is a fundamental element of the film, providing depth and rich character development. Below is a detailed introduction to the seven warriors:
Kambei Shimada - The leader of the samurai, portrayed by Toshiro Mifune, who possesses strategic acumen and unparalleled warrior skills.
Kikuchiyo - Played by Takashi Shimura, he is a boisterous character who bridges the gap between the samurai and the villagers, representing the common people's struggles.
Katsushiro Okamoto - The youngest samurai, characterized by his idealism and eagerness to prove himself, embodies the spirit of youth.
Gorobe Toshiie - A seasoned warrior who offers wisdom and practical combat experience, crucial to the samurai's strategies.
Shichiroji - A close friend of Kambei, his loyalty and courage are unwavering, exemplifying the bonds forged in battle.
Heihachi Hayakawa - The more light-hearted member of the group, who provides comic relief while possessing significant skills as a fighter.
Kyuzo - The most skilled swordsman among the group, representing the ideal of the samurai, disciplined and focused.
Innovative Cinematography and Direction
Kurosawa's direction is complemented by his use of innovative techniques that have influenced countless filmmakers. The film is celebrated for its masterful cinematography by Asakazu Nakai, who utilized various shot compositions and lighting techniques to enhance the storytelling. The use of slow motion during fight sequences added a dramatic flair and allowed audiences to appreciate the artistry of the samurai's martial skills.
The Legacy of Seven Samurai
The impact of Seven Samurai extends far beyond Japan. It has inspired numerous adaptations and films, including the iconic The Magnificent Seven, which transposes the story to the American West. Kurosawa's work paved the way for the acceptance and appreciation of foreign films in global cinema, and it remains a reference point for filmmakers looking to explore themes of heroism, communal struggle, and human resilience.
The Criterion Collection Release
The Criterion Collection edition elevates this cinematic classic through meticulous restoration, allowing both new viewers and longtime fans to experience the full beauty of Kurosawa's epic. Additional content such as behind-the-scenes documentaries, interviews with film scholars, and annotation on the film's enduring influence enriches the viewer's understanding.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Seven Samurai stands as a monumental achievement in cinema, melding tradition with innovation while exploring universal themes that resonate through time. Its reverberations can still be felt in contemporary storytelling, reaffirming its status as a timeless piece of art.
For DVD Player (North American NTSC)
Hailed as the greatest film in the history of Japanese cinema, Seven Samurai is director Akira Kurosawa's undisputed masterpiece. Arguably the greatest of all jidai-gecki (or historical swordplay films), Kurosawa's classic 1954 action drama has captivated audiences worldwide for decades.
The Plot and Its Themes
The story revolves around a small, farming village that is threatened by bandits who plan to raid them after the harvest. In a bold move for the time, the villagers decide to hire a group of seven masterless samurai to protect them. Each samurai possesses unique skills, backgrounds, and motivations, which Kurosawa intricately weaves into a tapestry of heroism, sacrifice, and the exploration of social class. The film explores profound themes such as honor, duty, and the complexities of human nature, all while showcasing the struggles of those on the margins of society.
The Seven Samurai
The ensemble cast is a fundamental element of the film, providing depth and rich character development. Below is a detailed introduction to the seven warriors:
Kambei Shimada - The leader of the samurai, portrayed by Toshiro Mifune, who possesses strategic acumen and unparalleled warrior skills.
Kikuchiyo - Played by Takashi Shimura, he is a boisterous character who bridges the gap between the samurai and the villagers, representing the common people's struggles.
Katsushiro Okamoto - The youngest samurai, characterized by his idealism and eagerness to prove himself, embodies the spirit of youth.
Gorobe Toshiie - A seasoned warrior who offers wisdom and practical combat experience, crucial to the samurai's strategies.
Shichiroji - A close friend of Kambei, his loyalty and courage are unwavering, exemplifying the bonds forged in battle.
Heihachi Hayakawa - The more light-hearted member of the group, who provides comic relief while possessing significant skills as a fighter.
Kyuzo - The most skilled swordsman among the group, representing the ideal of the samurai, disciplined and focused.
Innovative Cinematography and Direction
Kurosawa's direction is complemented by his use of innovative techniques that have influenced countless filmmakers. The film is celebrated for its masterful cinematography by Asakazu Nakai, who utilized various shot compositions and lighting techniques to enhance the storytelling. The use of slow motion during fight sequences added a dramatic flair and allowed audiences to appreciate the artistry of the samurai's martial skills.
The Legacy of Seven Samurai
The impact of Seven Samurai extends far beyond Japan. It has inspired numerous adaptations and films, including the iconic The Magnificent Seven, which transposes the story to the American West. Kurosawa's work paved the way for the acceptance and appreciation of foreign films in global cinema, and it remains a reference point for filmmakers looking to explore themes of heroism, communal struggle, and human resilience.
The Criterion Collection Release
The Criterion Collection edition elevates this cinematic classic through meticulous restoration, allowing both new viewers and longtime fans to experience the full beauty of Kurosawa's epic. Additional content such as behind-the-scenes documentaries, interviews with film scholars, and annotation on the film's enduring influence enriches the viewer's understanding.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Seven Samurai stands as a monumental achievement in cinema, melding tradition with innovation while exploring universal themes that resonate through time. Its reverberations can still be felt in contemporary storytelling, reaffirming its status as a timeless piece of art.
For DVD Player (North American NTSC)
WHAT YOU GET:
This item is for the original media, and includes only the media (ie. CD, floppy ...) UNLESS specifically stated above and/or in the title. If more than just the media is included, it will state which items are (ie. box, manual, etc ). Items that come in a sleeve refer to a generic CD sleeve (typically white) and will be sent with shipping protection to avoid damage during transit. If available, we will also send the front and/or back CD inserts if in stock. If these are important to you, please message us to verify we have them available to send. Please do not assume items are included other than what's stated. Again, ask questions PRIOR to purchasing if you have any concerns.
IMAGES:
All images/pictures are stock photos and are for reference only, mainly to show the type of game you will be getting. Please read "WHAT YOU GET" for what is included with the media. Screenshots may vary based on your own computer system, video card, monitor, etc.
COMPATIBILITY:
Computers are like people, each one is different. Unlike console games, a computer game may install and work flawlessly on one system but may need adjustments on another. This is due to a variety of factors, mainly the OS platform running, video card you have, drivers, protection software installed, etc. Many times manufacturers release updates to games to fix bugs and add enhancements. We would be happy to help get the game going on your computer, but ultimately compatibility issues are the responsibility of the buyer. We suggest going to Google and searching for the name of the game along with the words "system requirements" to determine if your system is suitable. Ultimately, we are not responsible for software compatibility problems or publisher's errors.
PLATFORM:
Stated within the auction is what platform the game will work on (ie. Windows, Mac, Linux...) This is a generic statement and specific platform versions (ie. XP, Vista...) will have to be researched by the buyer. Games that came out PRIOR to XP or higher will not specifically state they will work on that release, but only because they came out before those versions were made. Many, if not most, will work on XP or higher with a few quick adjustments. We provide instructions with all items purchased on how to do this adjustment using the Program Compatibility Wizard. If we find out that an item will definately not work on a specific version, we will state it. For DOS games, you may need to play it with a free DOSbox program if the Program Compatibility Wizard does not work.
64-Bit Windows OS Systems:
For 64-bit Operating Systems, older games most likely will NOT work due to 64-bit systems not being able to run 16-bit programming code (most games prior to 2000). For DOS games, you may need to play it with a free DOSbox program.
Macintosh Systems:
For Macintosh programs, most older games will need to be run in Classic Environment if you have a MAC OS X 10.0 - 10.4 version. Please research Google on how to do this, or send us a message for information prior to purchasing. If your MAC OS system doesn't support Classic Environment (ie. MAC OS X 10.5 or Higher OR Intel Macs), you will have to try running it using the free program called SheepShaver, but compatibility is not ensured. Please research prior to purchasing or ask questions.
MEDIA FORMAT:
Please verify you have the required hardware in order to use the specified media (ie. CD, DVD, floppy drives, etc.) If the item comes as a floppy disc, make sure you have either the needed 3.5" floppy drive or the bigger and older 5.25" floppy drive.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR A SMOOTH PURCHASE:
Ask questions PRIOR to purchasing an order to avoid any confusion.
Be patient if there are problems during installation or gameplay. Typically someone else has
already ran into that problem and has listed a solution online. Contact us and we will do our best to help.
Be sure to update your video card drivers and search for updates to the game from the manufacturer.
This item is for the original media, and includes only the media (ie. CD, floppy ...) UNLESS specifically stated above and/or in the title. If more than just the media is included, it will state which items are (ie. box, manual, etc ). Items that come in a sleeve refer to a generic CD sleeve (typically white) and will be sent with shipping protection to avoid damage during transit. If available, we will also send the front and/or back CD inserts if in stock. If these are important to you, please message us to verify we have them available to send. Please do not assume items are included other than what's stated. Again, ask questions PRIOR to purchasing if you have any concerns.
IMAGES:
All images/pictures are stock photos and are for reference only, mainly to show the type of game you will be getting. Please read "WHAT YOU GET" for what is included with the media. Screenshots may vary based on your own computer system, video card, monitor, etc.
COMPATIBILITY:
Computers are like people, each one is different. Unlike console games, a computer game may install and work flawlessly on one system but may need adjustments on another. This is due to a variety of factors, mainly the OS platform running, video card you have, drivers, protection software installed, etc. Many times manufacturers release updates to games to fix bugs and add enhancements. We would be happy to help get the game going on your computer, but ultimately compatibility issues are the responsibility of the buyer. We suggest going to Google and searching for the name of the game along with the words "system requirements" to determine if your system is suitable. Ultimately, we are not responsible for software compatibility problems or publisher's errors.
PLATFORM:
Stated within the auction is what platform the game will work on (ie. Windows, Mac, Linux...) This is a generic statement and specific platform versions (ie. XP, Vista...) will have to be researched by the buyer. Games that came out PRIOR to XP or higher will not specifically state they will work on that release, but only because they came out before those versions were made. Many, if not most, will work on XP or higher with a few quick adjustments. We provide instructions with all items purchased on how to do this adjustment using the Program Compatibility Wizard. If we find out that an item will definately not work on a specific version, we will state it. For DOS games, you may need to play it with a free DOSbox program if the Program Compatibility Wizard does not work.
64-Bit Windows OS Systems:
For 64-bit Operating Systems, older games most likely will NOT work due to 64-bit systems not being able to run 16-bit programming code (most games prior to 2000). For DOS games, you may need to play it with a free DOSbox program.
Macintosh Systems:
For Macintosh programs, most older games will need to be run in Classic Environment if you have a MAC OS X 10.0 - 10.4 version. Please research Google on how to do this, or send us a message for information prior to purchasing. If your MAC OS system doesn't support Classic Environment (ie. MAC OS X 10.5 or Higher OR Intel Macs), you will have to try running it using the free program called SheepShaver, but compatibility is not ensured. Please research prior to purchasing or ask questions.
MEDIA FORMAT:
Please verify you have the required hardware in order to use the specified media (ie. CD, DVD, floppy drives, etc.) If the item comes as a floppy disc, make sure you have either the needed 3.5" floppy drive or the bigger and older 5.25" floppy drive.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR A SMOOTH PURCHASE:
SHIPPING:
We typically ship all items out within 1-2 business days after payment is received. In regards to the stated shipping and handling, remember that these costs include more than just postage.
International buyers please email/chat with us to determine if you are eligible for shipping of a specific product. If you are, then international buyers not shipping to an address within the U.S. can expect their orders to take anywhere from 5 days to 4 weeks to be received, depending on how fast/well USPS is moving. Additionally, international orders typically have to go through governmental customs, which can delay the arrival process. Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. Please check with your country's customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to buying. Customs fees are normally charged by the shipping company or collected when you pick the item up. These fees are not additional shipping charges.
We typically ship all items out within 1-2 business days after payment is received. In regards to the stated shipping and handling, remember that these costs include more than just postage.
International buyers please email/chat with us to determine if you are eligible for shipping of a specific product. If you are, then international buyers not shipping to an address within the U.S. can expect their orders to take anywhere from 5 days to 4 weeks to be received, depending on how fast/well USPS is moving. Additionally, international orders typically have to go through governmental customs, which can delay the arrival process. Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. Please check with your country's customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to buying. Customs fees are normally charged by the shipping company or collected when you pick the item up. These fees are not additional shipping charges.
