L'homme au pousse-pousse

I last saw this film nearly 35 years ago and would like to see an English subtitled DVD one more time before I go. Of all the films that Mifune Toshiro made, this is the one I love the most. Mifune's portrayal of a common man who does not apologize for his lot in life but instead lives it to it's fullest extent is both amusing and inspirational.

There was also a version done by Mikuni Rentaro (Toei Studios) that I have seen. At this point in time, I am willing to watch any of the many remakes of this film.

Hopefully someone with some "juice" will read these comments and act on bringing a good English subtitled version to DVD.

Oh WOW! this film is slipping out off the radar, played by the great Toshiro Mifune, it's a tragedy of a great man named Muhomatsu, a Rickshaw Man. if you're looking for a great classic tear-jerker japanese drama then this is definitely a must to see!

First of all, you could never go wrong with a pairing of Toshiro Mifune and Hideko Takamine, two of the greatest actors that have ever been in film. Second, this tale of a rickshaw man known at the "Wild Matsu" who helps a young boy named Toshio and becomes a part of his growing up is told vividly through numerous scenes over time. Ms. Takamine plays Yoshiko, who was widowed soon after she met Matsu, and her performance is understated but essential to the film. Mr. Mifune, who is best remembered for works with the great Kurosawa, stretches his acting muscles greatly here, showing some vulnerability in a challenging role. There are so many films to recommend with Ms. Takamine and Mr. Mifune that are alternately entertaining and heartbreaking. This has both those elements and its a treasure of Japanese cinema.

Why on earth its so hard to get this film on video? Only an extreme bad English subtitled VHS, a good Chinese subtitle, but no German subtitle or German synchronized. I saw this film 40 years ago in German cinema, and except a Japanese VHS or DVD (see above)there's nothing to receive. This film is so good, that I even can understand the meaning of the Japanese Video. (With the help of my Japanese woman) The tragedy of a Rikshaman is shown in an excellent way, how he helps a young boy, when his father died, and that he cant marry the mother of that boy, because he is from a "lower Kaste". I hope one day I will get a German - or at least an English copy, to understand all the words, they say.

Like the other comments, this movie should be available on DVD or VHS. I remember seeing it 40 years ago and its brilliance stands out in my mind as if I saw it yesterday.

Toshiro Mifune plays against type. No samurai warrior he, but a humble Rickshaw man secretly in love with an upper class woman. He shepherds her son throughout the years and the woman, while almost recognizing the Rickshaw Man has helped make her son a man, never comprehends the love Mifune has for her.

A classic woman's film that caused this man to cry. And the fact that it stars Mifune and is directed by a macho director who likes to do period Samurai movies is amazing. Two macho stars making one of the great soaps of all time. And I mean that in the best of ways.