He starts off by arguing that it is one of Akira Kurosawa’s major films but at the time of its release was considered merely an entertaining film because of its box office success. Prince also points out that Toshiro Mifune was a big movie star when he did this film but its success transformed him into an icon and it’s a film he is most often identified with. Prince does an excellent job of explaining the historical period that the film is set in and the customs that were common at the time. He also provides in-depth analysis, discussing the influence of the American western and post World War II Japan. This is a top notch track that is definitely worth a listen.

Agree with all of the above. This might be the best ever.
Only challenger would be Prince's own from Ikiru.

An excellent track, but I cannot say his finest simply because there is not as much to breakdown with this film. It is wonderfully written, performed, and shot, but is still mostly entertaining. Not there is anything wrong with that. But the commentary track is less informational about the era and motives, than it is about how clever it is, and pointing out the Kurosawa trademarks found throughout. Definitely worth listening to!