description Ikiru Overview
Akira Kurosawas 'Ikiru' (To Live) is a heartbreaking and life-affirming story about a bureaucrat who discovers he has terminal cancer. Realizing he has wasted his life in a meaningless job, he decides to spend his final days creating something of lasting value. It is a powerful meditation on mortality, bureaucracy, and the search for purpose. Takashi Shimuras performance is one of the greatest in cinema history, conveying a lifetime of regret and eventual redemption.
It is a film that forces the viewer to confront their own life choices and the legacy they wish to leave behind.
info Ikiru Specifications
| Runtime | 104 minutes |
| Director | Akira Kurosawa |
| Starring | Toshiro Mifune, Takashi Shimura |
| Release Year | 1952 |
| Country Of Origin | Japan |
balance Ikiru Pros & Cons
- Groundbreaking narrative exploring existential themes
- Exceptional performances by Toshiro Mifune and other cast members
- Subtle and nuanced direction by Akira Kurosawa
- Deals with complex societal issues in a thoughtful manner
- Limited runtime may feel slow to some viewers
- Not widely available outside of film festivals or streaming services
- May require cultural context for full appreciation
- Limited English dubbing options
help Ikiru FAQ
What is 'Ikiru' about?
'Ikiru' follows a man's journey to find meaning in his final days after learning he has terminal cancer.
Who directed 'Ikiru'?
'Ikiru' was directed by the renowned Japanese filmmaker Akira Kurosawa.
Is 'Ikiru' available on streaming services?
'Ikiru' is not widely available on mainstream streaming platforms but can be found at film festivals or through rental services.
What is Ikiru?
How good is Ikiru?
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What is Ikiru best for?
Ideal for cinephiles and those interested in Japanese cinema or films dealing with existential themes.
How does Ikiru compare to 12 Angry Men (1957)?
Is Ikiru worth it in 2026?
What are the key specifications of Ikiru?
- Runtime: 104 minutes
- Director: Akira Kurosawa
- Starring: Toshiro Mifune, Takashi Shimura
- Release Year: 1952
- Country of Origin: Japan
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