Night Drum 1958
Night Drum (1958), directed by the acclaimed Tadashi Imai, is a gripping historical drama that unfolds against the rigid social codes of feudal Japan.
Director: Tadashi Imai
Cast
Rentaro Mikuni
Hikokurô Ogura
Ineko Arima
Otane, Hikokurô's wife
Masayuki Mori
Miyaji, the drum teacher
Sumiko Hidaka
Oyura
Keiko Yukishiro
Tomoko Naraoka
Orin
Emiko Azuma
Kikue Mōri
Shizue Natsukawa
Mannosuke Nakamura
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Night Drum (1958) about?
After a year serving his lord, samurai Hikokuro returns home to his wife Dane, expecting joy. Instead, he faces devastating rumors of her affair with a drummer. As family and society demand answers, Hikokuro must confront the painful intersection of duty, honor, and love.
Who directed Night Drum?
Night Drum was directed by Tadashi Imai, a filmmaker celebrated for his poignant and socially conscious dramas that delve into Japan's historical and cultural complexities.
Who stars in Night Drum?
The film features Rentaro Mikuni as the troubled samurai Hikokuro, alongside Ineko Arima as his wife Dane, and Masayuki Mori in a pivotal supporting role.
Is Night Drum (1958) worth watching?
As a historical drama rooted in themes of honor and betrayal, Night Drum offers a compelling narrative with strong performances. While it may not be fast-paced by modern standards, its emotional depth and cultural significance make it a rewarding watch for fans of the genre.
How long is Night Drum?
Night Drum has a runtime of 95 minutes.
About Night Drum (1958) — A Samurai's Heartbreaking Dilemma in Feudal Japan
Night Drum (1958), directed by the acclaimed Tadashi Imai, is a gripping historical drama that unfolds against the rigid social codes of feudal Japan. The film follows samurai Hikokuro's heart-wrenching return to his home after a year in Edo, only to find his honor challenged by whispers of infidelity between his wife and a renowned drummer. As rumors swirl and family pressure mounts, Hikokuro must navigate the fragile balance between duty and personal devastation. With its stark exploration of betrayal and honor, the movie immerses viewers in the emotional turmoil of a samurai torn between tradition and raw emotion.
Imai, known for his socially conscious storytelling, crafts a tense narrative where every glance and whisper carries weight. Rentaro Mikuni delivers a powerhouse performance as Hikokuro, while Ineko Arima and Masayuki Mori bring depth to the central conflict. The film's restrained yet intense atmosphere lingers long after the credits roll, making it a standout in the genre of historical dramas.
