Harakiri 1962
“What befalls others today, may be your own fate tomorrow.”
What is Harakiri?
Harakiri is a 1962 Japanese film about a ronin seeking to commit seppuku at the House of Iyi. Tsugumo Hanshirō, an unemployed samurai with no family, approaches the wealthy clan hoping to find a suitable location and second for his suicide ritual.
- Type
- Film
- Year
- 1962
- Status
- Released
- Runtime
- 135 minutes
- Release date
- Sep 15, 1962
- Original language
- JA
- Origin
- Japan
- Studios
- Shochiku
- Genres
- Action, Drama, History
- Updated
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Trailer
Overview
Harakiri is a 1962 Japanese film about a ronin seeking to commit seppuku at the House of Iyi. Tsugumo Hanshirō, an unemployed samurai with no family, approaches the wealthy clan hoping to find a suitable location and second for his suicide ritual. The senior counselor for the Iyi clan questions Hanshirō's true intentions, suspecting he may be seeking charity rather than pursuing an honorable death. The narrative unfolds through two interconnected stories that explore themes of honor and respect within the samurai code. The film examines the distinction between genuine honor and superficial respect, challenging traditional notions of the legendary samurai code through its dramatic exploration of these interwoven tales.
Should you watch it?
“A desperate ronin requests to commit ritual suicide at the courtyard of a powerful feudal clan.”
- masterful direction by Masaki Kobayashi
- acclaimed international reputation
- features intense themes of ritual suicide
- slow-paced narrative
Watch it if you enjoy critically acclaimed Japanese cinema that challenges traditional social codes.
The film contains depictions of ritual suicide and intense dramatic confrontation.
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Cast
Frequently asked questions
Who directed Harakiri?
The film was directed by Masaki Kobayashi.
When does the story take place?
The film is set during the Edo period between 1619 and 1630.
Who stars in the film?
The cast includes Tatsuya Nakadai, Akira Ishihama, Shima Iwashita, and Tetsurō Tanba.
Did the film receive any awards?
The film won the Jury Special Prize at the 1963 Cannes Film Festival.
What is the premise of the film?
A ronin arrives at the House of Iyi seeking a place to commit ritual suicide, leading to a confrontation regarding the samurai code.