In Throne of Blood, Kurosawa addresses many of my problems with MacBeth by changing and/or clarifying the lead couple's motivations, and the wonderful casting certainly helps. Toshiro Mifune is always watchable, but it's Isuzu Yamada as his Lady MacBeth that really steals the show. Very, very creepy, almost like she's a figment of his tortured imagination rather than a real person. This is a rather experimental film for Kurosawa, one that holds shots far too long, crosses the line, uses aggressive musical stings, and creates spare kabuki spaces, make-up and expressions to make the audience uncomfortable. It may seem boring to modern audiences, but embrace it and all will be well. It is a mood piece, first and foremost, and a visual masterwork with an incredible arrow-laden climax.

Not going to lie, I found this a bit boring at times. Really does require a bit of effort from the viewer.

Beautiful scenes though, and a wonderfully executed scene at the end.

Very gripping, amazing shots and arrow scene is a treat to eyes.