Red Beard

This lengthy film details the transformation of a young intern from a greedy idealist into a pragmatic but caring physician. In early 19th-century Japan, Dr. Kyojo Niide (Toshiro Mifune), better known as "Red Beard," is the head of a poverty-stricken public health clinic whose latest intern, Dr. Noboru Yasumoto (Yuzo Kayama), has his own ideas about practicing medicine. Despite initial signs of revolt, including excessive drinking and unorthodox dress, by film's end Yasumoto learns that being a good doctor requires much sacrifice. His new awareness is due largely to the patience and dedication of the aging Red Beard. A powerful tale of morality and human decency, t...