The Samurai Trilogy (Criterion Collection)

Hiroshi Inagaki's acclaimed trilogy on the life of a legendary Japanese warrior begins with "Samurai I: Musashi Miyamoto" (1954), as the young Miyamoto's (Toshiro Mifune) shattered dreams of battlefield glory cause him to turn outlaw, with the love of a village girl and a wise monk's training his only hopes for salvation. This Academy Award-winner for Best Foreign Film also stars Rentaro Mikuni and Kaoru Yachigusa. "Samurai II: Duel at Ichijoji Temple" (1955) finds Miyamoto (Mifune) put to the test when he must forsake his love to follow the warrior's path. Koji Tsuruta also stars. Incredible swordplay marks "Samurai III: Duel at Ganryu Island" (1955), when Miyamoto squares off against his nemesis, Kojiro Sasaki, in a conclusive battle. Mifune, Koji Tsuruta, Kaoru Yachigusa star. 5 hrs. total on two discs. Standard; Soundtrack: Japanese PCM mono; Subtitles: English; interviews; theatrical trailers. In Japanese with English subtitles.