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81% Critic Match
Sansho the Bailiff
“Without mercy, man is like a beast.”
8.1 / 10• 1954• 2h 4m•NR• Japanese
Drama
Storyline
In 11th-century feudal Japan, following the exile of an idealistic governor, his wife and children are separated by slave traders; the children, Zushio and Anju, are sold into brutal servitude under the cruel bailiff Sansho.
Cast & Crew
Kinuyo Tanaka
Tamaki
LeadYH
Yoshiaki Hanayagi
Zushiô
Kyōko Kagawa
Anju
Eitarō Shindō
Sanshô dayû
Ichirō Sugai
Minister of Justice
Bontarō Miake
Kichiji
YK
Yōko Kozono
Kohagi
Chieko Naniwa
Ubatake
What People Are Saying
4.0
“A staggering achievement of craft and ambition. Kenji Mizoguchi's vision lands with breathtaking precision.”
4.0
“Every frame feels alive. Sansho the Bailiff is the rare release that takes its audience seriously.”
