High and Low (1963). Kurosawa was at the height of his wondrous career when he made this crime drama. Made in two distinct movements with an incredible transition scene, this fabulous flick is Law and Order meets theatre proper. A simple story, it unravels with aplomb, revealing a paradox which has no simple solution sans tragedy, either financial or ethical. The procedural process of police work is painstakingly evinced to glorify not the excitement of the work, but instead the attention to detail. The ending will leave the viewer looking to lift his jaw back into its proper place. The acting is sublime, with Mifune and Nakadai the star of the first and second movement, respectively. The direction is of course masterful, with camera angles and editing that makes for such a wonderful production. An absolute treat to the serious fan of cinema. Merci beaucoup.
derek
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Fate is my mistress, mother of the cruel abomination that is hope.
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