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Toshirō Mifune

Personal Info

Known For

Acting

Birthdate

1920-04-01

Day of Death

1997-12-24

Place of Birth

Qingdao, China

Toshirō Mifune

Biography

Toshirō Mifune (April 1, 1920 - December 24, 1997) was a Japanese actor who is widely regarded as one of the greatest actors in the history of Japanese cinema. He was born in Qingdao, China, but was raised in Japan. Mifune's career spanned over 50 years, during which he collaborated extensively with renowned director Akira Kurosawa, creating some of the most iconic films in Japanese cinema. Mifune gained international recognition for his performances in Kurosawa's films, particularly in samurai films. He portrayed strong, dynamic, and often rebellious characters, bringing a raw intensity to his roles. Some of his notable collaborations with Kurosawa include "Rashomon" (1950), "Seven Samurai" (1954), "Yojimbo" (1961), and "The Hidden Fortress" (1958), which inspired George Lucas's "Star Wars." Apart from his work with Kurosawa, Mifune appeared in numerous other films, showcasing his versatility as an actor. He played roles in various genres, including dramas, comedies, and war films. Some of his other notable films include "The Throne of Blood" (1957), "High and Low" (1963), and "Red Beard" (1965). Mifune's charismatic presence, powerful performances, and ability to convey complex emotions made him an iconic figure in Japanese cinema. He received international recognition and awards for his contributions to the film industry, including several honors at the Venice Film Festival and a lifetime achievement award from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

Filmography (167)

⭐ 7.1 Role: Self - Actor / Various Roles (archive footage)

Mifune: The Last Samurai

2016
⭐ 7.5 Role: (archive footage)

Final Cut: Ladies and Gentlemen

2012
⭐ 8.0 Role: Self

Akira Kurosawa: It Is Wonderful to Create: 'The Hidden Fortress'

2002
⭐ 6.5 Role: The Benshi

Picture Bride

1995
⭐ 7.3 Role: Tsukada

Deep River

1995
⭐ 5.8 Role: Kroomak

Shadow of the Wolf

1992
⭐ 5.1 Role: Ieyasu Tokugawa

Journey of Honor

1991
⭐ 9.5 Role: Taoka

Strawberry Road

1991
⭐ 10.0 Role: Nagao Tamekage

Heaven and Earth: Dawn Episode

1990
⭐ 5.6 Role: Rikyu Sen-no

Death of a Tea Master

1989
⭐ 7.0 Role: Shūichirō Hase

cf Girl

1989
⭐ 10.0 Role: Kukkune no jî

The Demon Comes in Spring

1989
⭐ 6.4 Role: Taketori-no-Miyatsuko

Princess from the Moon

1987
⭐ 0 Role: Hikozaemon Ōkubo

The Retired Samurai

1987
⭐ 9.0 Role: Junkichi Ueno

Tora-san Goes North

1987