“Ikiru” (1952) is a profound Japanese film directed by the legendary Akira Kurosawa. The film tells the poignant story of Kanji Watanabe, a bureaucrat diagnosed with terminal cancer, who embarks on a quest to find meaning in his final days. With its deep exploration of human existence, “Ikiru” is a masterclass in storytelling, rich with literary and cinematic techniques.
Metaphor
Movie Scene Device Example Watanabe looking at the playground at night The playground represents Watanabe’s search for meaning and his legacy. The shadow over Watanabe’s desk The shadow symbolizes the looming presence of death and Watanabe’s initial despair.
Symbolism
Movie Scene Device Example The swing set in the park Symbolizes innocence, joy, and Watanabe’s rebirth. The stamp in the office Represents the monotonous, unfulfilling routine of bureaucratic life.
Irony
Movie Scene Device Example Watanabe’s colleagues assuming he’s on a vacation Dramatic irony as the audience knows he’s grappling with his mortality. The bureaucratic hurdles for the park project Situational irony , highlighting the inefficiency Watanabe fought against.
Flashback
Movie Scene Device Example Watanabe reminiscing about his youth Provides insight into his lost dreams and current regrets. The colleagues’ memories after his death Flashbacks reveal the true impact of his actions, contrasting with their initial perceptions.
Motif
Movie Scene Device Example The song “Gondola no Uta” Recurs throughout the film, symbolizing Watanabe’s reflections on life and death. The image of water Appears in various scenes, representing the flow of life and time.
Foreshadowing
Movie Scene Device Example The doctor’s evasive comments Hint at Watanabe’s terminal diagnosis early in the film. Watanabe’s sudden illness in the office Prefigures his impending struggle with cancer.
Juxtaposition
Movie Scene Device Example Scenes of office bureaucracy vs. scenes of Watanabe’s quest Highlights the contrast between a meaningless routine and a purposeful life. The lively bar scenes vs. Watanabe’s somber reflections Emphasizes the disparity between superficial joy and deep existential contemplation.
Imagery
Movie Scene Device Example The rundown park before renovation Vivid imagery depicting decay and neglect, mirroring Watanabe’s initial state. The transformed playground Bright, lively imagery symbolizing hope and renewal.
Allegory
Movie Scene Device Example Watanabe’s journey to build the park An allegory for his quest for redemption and purpose. The bureaucratic red tape Represents the struggle against societal inertia and personal apathy.
Pathos
Movie Scene Device Example Watanabe singing in the bar Evokes deep empathy for his existential plight. His final moments on the swing Creates a poignant emotional connection, highlighting the fulfillment of his quest .
Kanji Watanabe
Device Explanation Symbolism Watanabe’s transition from a faceless bureaucrat to a determined individual symbolizes the potential for personal transformation. Pathos His journey evokes deep sympathy and highlights the universal quest for meaning.
Mitsuo Watanabe
Device Explanation Irony His lack of understanding and appreciation for his father’s struggle contrasts with Watanabe’s profound journey. Foreshadowing His indifferent attitude hints at the generational gap and differing values.
Toyo Odagiri
Device Explanation Juxtaposition Her youthful exuberance and Watanabe’s terminal condition highlight the contrast between vitality and mortality. Motif Her laughter and energy symbolize the life Watanabe yearns to reclaim.
Kimura
Device Explanation Allegory Represents the younger generation’s potential to challenge and change the bureaucratic system. Flashback His recollections of Watanabe reveal the lasting impact of Watanabe’s transformation.
Character Dynamics
Watanabe’s relationships, especially with Toyo and Kimura, drive the narrative forward. Toyo’s youthful spirit reinvigorates Watanabe, pushing him to pursue the park project. Kimura’s admiration and recollections after Watanabe’s death underscore the theme of legacy and the transformative power of one person’s determination.
Legacy and Mortality
Device Explanation Symbolism The park as a symbol of Watanabe’s lasting impact. Flashback The colleagues’ memories of Watanabe highlight the theme of legacy.
Bureaucracy and Individual Agency
Device Explanation Irony The inefficiency of the bureaucracy contrasts with Watanabe’s newfound purpose. Allegory Watanabe’s battle against bureaucratic red tape represents the struggle for personal agency.
Existential Reflection
Device Explanation Pathos Watanabe’s introspective moments evoke a deep existential reflection. Metaphor The swing in the park symbolizes the arc of life and reflection on one’s journey.
Visual and Sound Techniques
Literary Device Technique Explanation Symbolism Lighting Use of shadows to depict Watanabe’s inner turmoil. Pathos Music The recurring song “Gondola no Uta” to evoke emotional depth. Juxtaposition Cinematography Contrasting shots of the dreary office and vibrant park. Metaphor Set Design The transformation of the park mirrors Watanabe’s inner change.
Scene Selection: Watanabe on the Swing
Watch Scene on YouTube
Scene Breakdown
Cinematic Techniques : The soft focus and dim lighting create a melancholic yet peaceful atmosphere , enhancing the emotional impact.Literary Devices :
Symbolism Pathos
Scene Selection: Watanabe Confronts Bureaucracy
Watch Scene on YouTube
Scene Breakdown
Cinematic Techniques : Dynamic camera angles and tight shots emphasize the claustrophobic nature of the bureaucracy.Literary Devices :
Irony contrast between the bureaucrats’ indifference and Watanabe’s urgency.Allegory
To engage you further, let’s see how much you’ve absorbed! Here’s a quick quiz:
Multiple Choice Quiz
1. What does the playground symbolize in ‘Ikiru’? A. Bureaucracy B. Watanabe’s legacy C. Watanabe’s illness D. Watanabe’s office
2. Which song recurs throughout ‘Ikiru’? A. Sakura B. Gondola no Uta C. Auld Lang Syne D. Furusato
3. What literary device is used when Watanabe’s colleagues think he’s on vacation? A. Metaphor B. Irony C. Allegory D. Symbolism
4. What does the bureaucratic red tape represent in the film? A. Efficiency B. Personal freedom C. Institutional inertia D. Joy
5. What does the swing set in the park signify in Watanabe’s life? A. His childhood B. His despair C. His routine D. His purpose and rebirth
