Ran (1985)
Ran is streaming in Japan on Hulu, U-NEXT, KADOKAWA channel Amazon Channel.
The verdict
Ran stood out as one of the better-rated Japanese films of its release window. It carries an 8.0/10 on TMDB across 1,914 ratings — comfortably clear of the pack. At 160 minutes, it asks for a real chunk of your night. In Japan you can stream it on Hulu, U-NEXT, KADOKAWA channel Amazon Channel.
Should you spend 2h 40m on it?
2h 40m of Japanese action, leaning drama, fine for the whole family. A little over the usual, so start it earlier than you think.
Don't watch this if…
- you've only got a couple of hours. It needs 2h 40m
- you're after something harder. It's rated G
- Why
- Currently 8.0/10 from 1,914 ratings, which is a good sign this early.
- Skip if
- you'd rather the plot moved on people than on set pieces
- Best for
- An evening with the household together
Story
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.
Good to know
| Runtime | 2h 40m — long |
| Watch with family? | G · Yes — family friendly |
| Genre | Action / Drama |
| Language | Japanese |
| Best screen | Stream at home |
Director
Akira Kurosawa
Cast
Where to watch in Japan
Included with a subscription — no extra charge on these platforms.
Availability as of 22 Sept 2026 — platforms may change over time.
Trailer
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