The following are the questions based on the movie Rashamon:
1. Give a brief outline of the plot (action) of the film.
2. What are the main symbols in the film, what do they represent?
3. What are the main philosophical questions (ideas) being raised by the film? How are these themes still relevant today?
4. How is the structure of the film important to the telling of this story?
5. Who’s story did you find most trustworthy and why?
6. Consider the final scene when the Priest chooses to hand the baby over to the Woodsman. What is Kurosawa trying to say with this gesture?
7. Rashomon is an adaptation of a short story written by Akutagawa, consider what elements are present in the film that enhance or diminish a story like this. Are there aspects to the story that might be better served on the page, why?
Answers:
- Rashomon is a film directed by Akira Kurosawa that explores the subjective nature of truth through the retelling of a crime. The story centers around the murder of a samurai and the rape of his wife, which is recounted through the perspectives of four different characters: the bandit who claims to have committed the crimes, the samurai’s wife, a woodcutter who witnessed the events, and a priest who serves as an impartial observer. Each retelling of the events reveals conflicting details and motives, leaving the viewer uncertain of what truly happened.
- The main symbols in the film are the Rashomon gate, which represents the entryway into different versions of truth, and the woods, which represents the ambiguity and uncertainty of reality. The film also uses rain as a symbol of purification and the breaking down of barriers between people.
- The film raises philosophical questions about the nature of truth, morality, and human nature. It asks whether objective truth exists or whether truth is always subjective and influenced by personal biases and perceptions. The film also explores the idea that people are capable of committing heinous acts, and the lengths they will go to justify their actions. These themes are still relevant today, particularly in a world where truth is often subjective and manipulated for personal or political gain.
- The structure of the film is important to the telling of the story because it emphasizes the subjective nature of truth. By presenting different perspectives on the same events, the film shows how the truth can be manipulated and distorted depending on who is telling the story.
- It is difficult to determine which character’s story is the most trustworthy, as each perspective is biased and self-serving. However, the woodcutter’s story seems to be the most honest and impartial, as he has no stake in the outcome of the trial and his account is consistent with the physical evidence.
- Kurosawa is suggesting that compassion and kindness are the most important qualities in human interaction. He is emphasizing the importance of looking past the surface of a situation and recognizing the potential for redemption and forgiveness. By handing the baby over to the Woodsman, the Priest is demonstrating the power of understanding and acceptance, no matter the circumstances.
- Rashomon features several elements that enhance the story, such as its use of a nonlinear narrative and multiple perspectives. This allows the viewer to experience the story from different angles and gain insight into the characters, their motivations, and the complex moral issues at play. Additionally, the film’s visual elements such as its use of shadows and lighting to create a moody atmosphere also add to the impact of the story. On the other hand, there are aspects of the story that might be better served on the page. Akutagawa’s original story is a psychological exploration of the nature of truth and the potential for truth to be coloured by the subjective perspectives of each character. This is difficult to capture on screen, as the visual element of the film might distract from the author’s intent. Additionally, Akutagawa’s story is quite short, and the film adaptation expands upon the narrative with additional elements. While these additions might enhance the story for a cinematic audience, they may not be as effective in the original text.