Classic Samurai Cinema: The Hidden Fortress (1958) November 13, 2009

Classic Samurai Cinema: Three by Kurosawa
Introduced by Donald J. La Rocca, Curator, Department of Arms and Armor.

A screening of the second of three classic samurai films by Akira Kurosawa (1910–1998), one of Japan’s greatest filmmakers and the master of the genre. Star Toshiro Mifune’s unparalleled performances still define for Western audiences the essence of what it meant to be a samurai.

The Hidden Fortress (1958)
After a disastrous battle, a famous general recruits two hapless farmers to help in the daring rescue of a princess and her family fortune. One of George Lucas’s sources for the Star Wars films.

This series is presented in conjunction with the exhibition “Art of the Samurai: Japanese Arms and Armor, 1156–1868,” October 21, 2009–January 10, 2010.

The exhibition is made possible by The Yomiuri Shimbun.

Additional support is provided by The Jessica E. Smith and Kevin R. Brine Charitable Trust, the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of New York, Inc., and the Oceanic Heritage Foundation.

The exhibition was organized by The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, the Agency for Cultural Affairs of the Government of Japan, and the Tokyo National Museum. It is supported by an indemnity from the Federal Council on the Arts and the Humanities.

Image credit:
Helmet in the form of a Turban Shell
Kawari kabuto (exotic helmets)
Momoyama Period, late 16th to early 17th century
Tokyo National Museum

Two exclusive Dining Privileges for ticket holders to Friday or Saturday evening performances!
Petrie Court Café and Wine Bar: Present your ticket to your host and receive a voucher for a complimentary glass of wine with minimum purchase of $20. Reservations are suggested; please call 212-570-3964.
Trustees Dining Room: All ticket holders are eligible to dine in the Trustees Dining Room on the evening of the ticketed event. Reservations are suggested; please call 212-570-3975.

Note: The Trustees Dining Room offers a late seating, following this evening’s event.

Official Website: http://www.metmuseum.org/tickets