Ran (1985)

Kernel Score: 89% · 1,760 ratings · Rated R

Genres: Action, Drama, History

Released: 1985-06-01

Runtime: 160 minutes

Where to watch Ran

US availability, updated 2026-10-23.

Overview

Shakespeare's King Lear is reimagined as a singular historical epic set in sixteenth-century Japan where an aging warlord divides his kingdom between his three sons.

Ran parents' guide: ages 13+

Parents need to know that Ran is an R-rated historical war epic depicting a kingdom's violent collapse, battles, and ritual suicide.

  • Violence & scariness: Strong — Depicts war, siege, assassination, seppuku, and a descent into madness amid a feudal power struggle.

Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official R rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.

Movies like Ran

If you liked Ran, these are the movies we'd watch next.

Director

Akira Kurosawa

Cast

  • Tatsuya Nakadai as Lord Hidetora Ichimonji
  • Akira Terao as Taro Takatora Ichimonji
  • Jinpachi Nezu as Jiro Masatora Ichimonji
  • Daisuke Ryū as Saburo Naotora Ichimonji
  • Mieko Harada as Lady Kaede
  • Yoshiko Miyazaki as Lady Sue
  • Mansai Nomura as Tsurumaru
  • Hisashi Igawa as Shuri Kurogane
  • Shinnosuke Ikehata as Kyoami
  • Masayuki Yui as Tango Hirayama

Ran FAQ

Is Ran good?

Ran has an 89% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels from 1,760 audience ratings.

Where can I watch Ran?

In the US you can watch it free with ads on Kanopy, Plex and Tubi.

Is Ran OK for kids?

Ran is rated R. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 13+. Parents need to know that Ran is an R-rated historical war epic depicting a kingdom's violent collapse, battles, and ritual suicide.

What movies are like Ran?

If you liked Ran, try The Hidden Fortress, The Human Condition I: No Greater Love, Samurai Rebellion and Throne of Blood.