The 'jidaigeki', or samurai genre, is characterised by a strong anti-establishment spirit and sense of redemption, represented through a few disillusioned characters' furious rebellion against corrupt, dehumanising feudal systems. (Curated by Sajin Shrijith)
The greatest of the genre, Akira Kurosawa's definitive samurai epic is a filmmaking masterclass, a textbook on exemplary storytelling through memorable characters, atmosphere and emotions.
Kurosawa's duology featuring the same character, played by Toshiro Mifune, finds him at his most lighthearted, while uncompromising on the degree of violence and bloodshed the genre demands.
Arguably, the bleakest of them all, but regardless, an example of A-grade filmmaking courtesy of master Masaki Kobayashi ("The Human Condition" trilogy), aided by a powerful performance from Tatsuya Nakadai.
Made a decade after 'Seven Samurai', director Hideo Gosha presumably took Kurosawa's template from that film and gave it his unique spin, with three main characters bearing distinct qualities and suspenseful storytelling.
Kurosawa made the best adaptations of Shakespeare's work in cinema history — one in striking monochrome; the other in stunning colour. Both tales of downfall make for a perfect double bill.
Along with 'Harakiri', 'Ran' and 'The Human Condition', a demonstration of actor Tatsuya Nakadai's versatility, in the role of a cold, remorseless warrior. Directed by Kihachi Okamoto, one of the darkest entries in the genre.
Beginning with 'The Tale of Zatoichi', featuring a blind swordsman-masseur with extraordinary abilities, the series comprised 26 films, with the later entries featuring appearances from characters from popular Asian action films.
Takashi Miike's 2017 adaptation of the eponymous manga series is an action movie lover's delight, with an insane body count, all outcomes of some of the most satisfyingly gory sword fights.