Sansho the Bailiff(1954)
“Without mercy, man is like a beast.”
Overview
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.
Director
Kenji Mizoguchi
Studio
Daiei Film
Cast
Kinuyo Tanaka
as Tamaki
Yoshiaki Hanayagi
as Zushiô
Kyōko Kagawa
as Anju
Eitarō Shindō
as Sanshô dayû
Ichirō Sugai
as Minister of Justice
Bontarō Miake
as Kichiji
Yōko Kozono
as Kohagi
Chieko Naniwa
as Ubatake
Kikue Mōri
as Priestess
Ken Mitsuda
as Prime Minister Fujiwara
Masao Shimizu
as Masauji Taira
Ryōsuke Kagawa
as Ritsushi Kumotake
Where to Watch
Availability may vary by region. Some links are affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Movie Facts
Release Year
1954
Runtime
2h 4m
Language
Japanese
Rating
8.1 / 10
Production Companies
Daiei Film
You Might Also Like
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I watch Sansho the Bailiff?▼
Check the "Where to Watch" section above for current streaming platforms, rental options, and purchase links for Sansho the Bailiff (1954).
What is Sansho the Bailiff about?▼
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.
Who directed Sansho the Bailiff?▼
Sansho the Bailiff was directed by Kenji Mizoguchi and released in 1954. It is a drama film.
How long is Sansho the Bailiff?▼
Sansho the Bailiff has a runtime of 2 hours and 4 minutes (124 minutes total).
Who stars in Sansho the Bailiff?▼
The cast of Sansho the Bailiff includes Kinuyo Tanaka as Tamaki, Yoshiaki Hanayagi as Zushiô, Kyōko Kagawa as Anju, Eitarō Shindō as Sanshô dayû, Ichirō Sugai as Minister of Justice and more.
Explore More by Genre
Need a recommendation?
Tell us your mood and we'll pick the perfect movie for you.