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Ikiru 1952

“A big story of a little man which will grip your soul...”

★ 8.3/10 · 1,366 votes NR Drama Released
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Quick answer

What is Ikiru?

Ikiru is a 1952 Japanese drama film. The story revolves around a middle-aged man who has worked in a monotonous bureaucratic position for an unspecified amount of time.

Type
Film
Year
1952
Status
Released
Runtime
143 minutes
Release date
Oct 9, 1952
Original language
JA
Origin
Japan
Studios
TOHO
Budget
$85,000
Revenue
$55,240
Genres
Drama
Updated
Availability by region

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Trailer

Overview

Ikiru is a 1952 Japanese drama film. The story revolves around a middle-aged man who has worked in a monotonous bureaucratic position for an unspecified amount of time. His life takes a turn when he receives a health diagnosis. The film explores his search for the meaning of his life, as he grapples with the reality of his situation. Directed by Akira Kurosawa, Ikiru is a narrative that delves into themes of existentialism and the human condition.

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Should you watch it?

“A bureaucratic office worker seeks meaning in his life after receiving a terminal cancer diagnosis.”

Reasons to watch
  • A compelling story about a middle-aged man seeking purpose
  • Explores deep existential themes
Keep in mind
  • Features a heavy and emotional premise about terminal illness

Watch it if you are looking for a deeply reflective drama about life and purpose.

The film deals with terminal illness and mortality in a dramatic tone.

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Cast

Frequently asked questions

What is the main character's name?

The main character is Kanji Watanabe.

What does Kanji Watanabe do for a living?

He has worked in a monotonous bureaucratic position for decades.

What prompts him to look for the meaning of his life?

He learns that he has cancer.

What genre is the film?

The film is a drama.

When was the film released in the United States according to the provided sources?

It was released on 03/25/1956 in the United States.