Yojimbo

Yojimbo is Akira Kurosawa's take on Western-style film. Though set in 1860, both the plot and cinematography resemble that of a traditional Western while still retaining a strong Japanese influence.

The opening scene empowers the main character, Sanjuro. Only his backside is displayed as he trots through the wildness. Sanjuro's odd stance with his arms tucked inside his kimono, combined with his posture and gait, reveal a sense of confidence. The music used in this scene also enhances this complex as the samurai marches to the beat of the percussion. This confidence is also seen in his first major confrontation with the villagers. Little conversations leads to swift action and a minor fight scene causing the death of three troublemakers and also setting the tone for the rest of the film; Sanjuro is a powerful force not to be reckoned with.

The setting almost identically resembles the set of a Western; a small, desolate town with a main road down the center surrounded by open wilderness and mountains in the background. The Japanese influence is maintained with costumes, props, such as weaponry, and interior decoration.

Kurosawa's trademark sweeping transition is implemented in Yojimbo, as most of his other films.