This is one of my fave Kurowsawa films. I really love films that make us think, and think and think and maybe feel like we want to change something in our lives. The film is about a young Doctor (Yasumoto) who is a recent grad that is assigned to a rural clinic for post grad training. He is pissed because he wants to join the elite team of physicians caring for the Japanese Shogunate. Now he is serving the impoverished local population with Dr. Niide aka “RED Beard”, a demanding boss who is very brusque and abrupt, but thoroughly devoted to his poor patients. Slowly Yasumoto is changed with more exposure to Red Beard. He learns the true meaning of helping others and being a Doctor. Seeing patients as humans who are suffering and whose individual lives he can improve and heal with his care. Great ending! Prepare the Kleenex!