I think it's ironic that this film critiques corruption and the loss of honor in the corporate world, yet it's a strict code of honor that has middle managers committing suicide to ensure their superiors aren't implicated in scandals. It's also ironic that the guy seeking revenge to right a wrong (Toshiro Mifune) uses some pretty evil techniques in his quest to do so. I loved seeing Mifune wearing glasses and in a more understated role that many of his others, and he's as great as always. Masayuki Mori is also strong as the big boss, and it's interesting that we find out that even he answers to someone higher up the chain. The bad sleep well at night because they aren't bothered by their consciences, yes, but also because they have someone else closer to the front line than them. The individual can fight the good fight, but it's tough against the faceless powerful, even if Mifune tells us nothing will ever change if we don't. Along those lines, the hideout being at the ruins of an old munitions factory that was firebombed by the Americans made me think of the obedience to hierarchy that's part of any war, with those at the top far removed, and those in the line of fire sacrificing themselves. Kurosawa gives us a sober look at these things, and does so in an entertaining story. It may have been better pared down just a teeny bit though.
Review of The Bad Sleep Well
