Ten fun facts about Toshirô Mifune

1. From China to Manchuria to Japan

Toshirô Mifune was born in the port city of Tsingtao, China, but his family soon moved to the nearby city of Dalian, where he was raised. After a few years, his family relocated again, this time to Manchuria, where Mifune would spend the majority of his childhood. His upbringing in these three distinct cities would shape his life and career, eventually leading him to become one of the most iconic actors in Japanese cinema.

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2. Japanese citizen who spent 19 years living in China

Toshirô Mifune spent 19 years of his life living in China as a Japanese citizen, and during the Second World War he was recruited into the Imperial Japanese Army's Aviation department. He served in the Aerial Photography unit, where he was responsible for taking photographs from the air to aid in the war effort. His work was essential to the Japanese military, and his time in the Aerial Photography unit was a defining period of his life.

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3. From 'New Faces' to Iconic Actor

Toshirô Mifune was an iconic Japanese actor who rose to fame after being discovered at a 'new faces' contest organized by the renowned Toho Studios. The contest was held in 1947 and Mifune was one of the many hopefuls who auditioned. His performance was so impressive that he was immediately signed to a long-term contract with the studio, launching his career and making him one of the most recognizable faces in Japanese cinema.

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4. Legendary Japanese actor's first feature film

Toshirô Mifune's career in film began with the movie Shin Baka Jidai, directed by the renowned Japanese filmmaker Kajiro Yamamoto. This was Mifune's first feature film, and it marked the start of a long and successful career in the film industry. Mifune went on to star in over 150 films, and his performances earned him international acclaim and numerous awards. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of all time, and his work with director Akira Kurosawa is considered to be some of the most influential in the history of cinema.

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5. Legendary 16 of his films with Akira Kurosawa

Toshirô Mifune was a legendary actor who had a long and successful partnership with director Akira Kurosawa, starring in 16 of his films. Mifune is credited with creating the 'roving warrior' archetype that can be seen in many of their collaborations, such as Seven Samurai, Yojimbo, and The Hidden Fortress. His iconic performances in these films have made him one of the most recognizable faces in Japanese cinema.

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6. Legendary Actor with a Self-Deprecating Sense of Humor

Toshirô Mifune is renowned for his self-deprecating sense of humor and his commitment to delivering powerful performances. His most famous films include Seven Samurai, Yojimbo, Rashomon and Animas Trujano, all of which showcase his remarkable talent and ability to bring characters to life. His performances are characterized by a sincere effort to capture the essence of the characters he portrays, making him one of the most beloved actors of all time.

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7. Toshirô Mifune Attempted to Open an Acting School, but It Failed

Toshirô Mifune, the renowned Japanese actor, attempted to open an acting school in the early 1960s. Named Mifune Geijutsu Gakuin, the school was unfortunately short-lived, closing its doors after just three years due to mismanagement of finances and funds. Despite the setback, Mifune's legacy as one of the most influential actors in Japanese cinema remains intact.

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8. Toshirô Mifune, Iconic Japanese Actor, Receives Two Honors

In 1986 and 1993, the Japanese Government awarded Toshirô Mifune with two of its highest honors: the Medal of Honour with Purple Ribbon and the Order of Sacred Treasure. These awards are a testament to Mifune's immense contribution to the Japanese film industry, and serve as a reminder of his legacy as one of the most iconic actors of all time.

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9. "Mifune Honored at Moscow Film Fest"

Toshirô Mifune was a renowned Japanese actor who was highly respected in the film industry. He was a member of the jury at the 8th and 10th Moscow International Film Festival, demonstrating his esteemed status in the international film community. His presence at the festival was a testament to his influence and legacy, and his contributions to the film industry were highly regarded by his peers.

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10. Toshirô Mifune, Legendary Japanese Actor, Dies at 77

The legendary Japanese actor Toshirô Mifune sadly passed away at the age of 77 in Tokyo, Japan, after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. His death was caused by multiple organ failure, a devastating end to a life that had been filled with immense success and admiration. Mifune was a beloved figure in the Japanese film industry, having starred in over 150 films throughout his career, and his legacy will live on for many years to come.

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