Ikiru- The film that led Japan’s greatest director to immortality

This is where Kurosawa can lay claim to being the greatest director in cinema; here, he truly starts to become immortal. Ikiru is a thought-provoking masterpiece, tackling themes of life, death, and bureaucracy with profound insight.

Ikiru serves as a social commentary on the meaning of life and legacy. The film underscores that nobody will be remembered for their status or wealth but for the impact they have on others’ lives. This is epitomized by Watanabe’s quest to build a playground, an everlasting testament to his positive influence. Kurosawa contrasts this with Watanabe’s initial indulgence in clubs and women, which fails to bring him true happiness. Instead, Watanabe undergoes a personal transformation, finding redemption and a sense of accomplishment. This narrative arc highlights the potential for individuals to change their lives and leave a positive legacy.

Ikiru comments on Parent-Children relationship and how work interferes with that. Watanabe wasn’t a great father, The emotional distance and lack of understanding between Watanabe and Mitsuo underscore the themes of alienation, the search for meaning, and the generational divide. This relationship, marked by unmet expectations and missed connections, ultimately leads Watanabe towards his quest for a meaningful life

The bureaucracy in the film symbolizes a meaningless life, showcasing the dehumanizing aspects of bureaucratic systems and the alienation they can cause. In contrast, the playground represents the opposite — a meaningful, human-centered achievement.

The ending of Ikiru is a blend of triumph and melancholy. It celebrates Watanabe’s personal victory and the meaningful legacy he leaves behind, while also critiquing the broader system that remains resistant to change. This duality captures the complexity of human existence and the struggle to find meaning within societal constraints, making the film a deeply resonant and enduring piece of cinema.