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The Hidden Fortress

1958 · Movie · Not Rated · 139 min · ★ 8.0 · 94% critics

DramaActionAdventure

Amid a brutal clan war in feudal Japan, two greedy peasants on the run cross paths with a mysterious warrior and a young noblewoman in hiding. Tempted by the promise of gold, they’re pulled into a dangerous trek through hostile territory, where loyalty, courage, and self-interest collide at every turn.

Also known as Three Bad Men in a Hidden Fortress · Three Rascals in the Hidden Fortress · The Three Villains of the Hidden Fortress

IMDb

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Details
Original title
隠し砦の三悪人
Years
1958
Release date
1958-12-28
Language
Japanese
Rated
Not Rated
Runtime
139 min
Critic score
94/100
TMDB rating
8.0/10 (707 votes)
About

If you enjoy classic action-adventure with humor, tense escapes, and a long journey through enemy territory, this is a solid pick; Not for you if you dislike broad comedy or bickering leads—try Seven Samurai or Sanjuro instead.

Pros: fast-paced adventure; funny bickering duo; strong, brave princess | Cons: uneven pacing at times; simplistic, linear story; some irritating characters

Themes

  • japan
  • male friendship
  • border crossing
  • jidaigeki
  • sengoku period
  • feudal japan
  • 16th century
  • mountain fortress

Awards & recognition

  • FIPRESCI Prize at Berlinale · 1959
  • Silver Bear — Best Director · 1959

Cast & crew

Directed by Akira Kurosawa