Master filmmaker Akira Kurosawa’s kidnapping drama is an absolute classic of its genre and a hallmark of Japanese cinema, even though it is based on an 87th Precinct novel by Ed McBain. Equal parts moral drama, police procedural, and psychological thriller with strong performances – particularly from the always fascinating Toshiro Mifune – and memorable visuals. It does have it’s slow, talky moments, but overall this is a smart and masterfully crafted masterpiece.