Death in Kurosawa's "Ran"

In this critical article, Zvika Serper argues that Kurosawa, the director of Ran, depicts the murders of two characters in a contrasting but yet harmonious way. Lady Sue, who is beheaded by the agents of Kaede, is innocent and is therefore presented in an honorable fashion according to Japanese theater. Kaede on the other hand has destroyed the house of Ichimonji and killed Lady Sue and therefore is beheaded ruthlessly the scene following Lady Sue's death. Kaede's death however is presented in a dishonorable fashion with blood spurting and taking up the scene. Serper concludes that the depiction of death in Ran allows the movie to represent Japanese theater and culture.