Ran: The Masterworks Edition (2003) Rating: Starring: Tatsuya Nakadai, Jimpachi Nezu, Akira Terao Director: Akira Kurosawa Category: Drama, Family Studio: Wellspring Subtitles: English Length: 160 mins     "Astonishing! A masterwork!" -Steve Vineberg, The New York Times Akira Kurosawa's brilliantly conceived retelling of King Lear combines Japanese history and Shakespeare's plot with the director's own feelings about loyalty and betrayal. In 16th century Japan, the aging Lord Hidetora (Tatsuya Nakadai) passes the decree that his land be divided among his three children. Blinded by the false flattery of his two older songs, he banishes his younger son for speaking the truth. The remaining heirs, driven by power and greed, wage war upon each other. A broken man, Hidetora descends into madness while death and destruction threaten the survival of the kingdom.