Mitsuo Nagata
Actor
About Mitsuo Nagata
Mitsuo Nagata was a Japanese actor who worked during the immediate post-World War II period in Japanese cinema. His most documented appearance was in Akira Kurosawa's 1948 film 'Women of the Night' (Yoru no onnatachi), which was one of the celebrated director's early works exploring social issues in occupied Japan. The film was notable for its raw depiction of the struggles faced by women in post-war Japanese society, particularly those forced into prostitution to survive. Nagata appeared in this film during a pivotal period in Japanese cinema when the industry was transitioning and dealing with the challenges and opportunities presented by the American occupation. While his role in 'Women of the Night' represents his most significant documented contribution to cinema, detailed records of his broader career and other film appearances appear limited in available historical sources. This suggests he may have been a character actor or had a relatively brief career during this transformative period in Japanese film history.
The Craft
Milestones
- Appeared in Akira Kurosawa's 'Women of the Night' (1948)
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Mitsuo Nagata's contribution to cinema, while documented primarily through his appearance in 'Women of the Night,' places him within the context of post-war Japanese cinema's golden age. His participation in Akira Kurosawa's early work connects him to one of cinema's most influential directors during a formative period. 'Women of the Night' was significant for its social commentary on the difficult conditions facing Japanese women during the occupation period, and Nagata's involvement, however minor, makes him part of this important cultural document that reflected and shaped post-war Japanese society.
Lasting Legacy
Mitsuo Nagata's legacy is primarily preserved through his contribution to 'Women of the Night,' a film that stands as an important example of post-war Japanese cinema and early Akira Kurosawa work. While detailed information about his broader career appears limited in historical records, his participation in this socially significant film ensures his place in the chronicles of Japanese cinema history. The film itself continues to be studied by film scholars and enthusiasts interested in Kurosawa's early development and the social realist movement in post-war Japanese filmmaking.
Did You Know?
- Appeared in 'Women of the Night' during Akira Kurosawa's early career phase
- The film was made during the American occupation of Japan
- 'Women of the Night' was one of Kurosawa's films dealing with social issues affecting women
- The film was released just three years after World War II ended
- Kurosawa's film was part of a wave of Japanese cinema addressing post-war social problems
- The film's Japanese title was 'Yoru no onnatachi'
- The film starred prominent Japanese actresses Kinuyo Tanaka and Takako Irie
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Mitsuo Nagata?
Mitsuo Nagata was a Japanese actor who appeared in the late 1940s, most notably in Akira Kurosawa's 1948 film 'Women of the Night.' He was active during the immediate post-World War II period in Japanese cinema.
What films is Mitsuo Nagata best known for?
Mitsuo Nagata is primarily known for his appearance in 'Women of the Night' (1948), directed by Akira Kurosawa. This appears to be his most documented film role.
When was Mitsuo Nagata born and when did he die?
Specific birth and death dates for Mitsuo Nagata are not readily available in historical records. His known film work dates to 1948 during the post-war period in Japan.
What awards did Mitsuo Nagata win?
There are no documented awards or nominations for Mitsuo Nagata in available film history records, which suggests he may have been a character actor with a relatively brief career.
What was Mitsuo Nagata's acting style?
Detailed information about Mitsuo Nagata's specific acting style is not available in historical sources, as his documented filmography appears limited to his role in 'Women of the Night.'
How is Mitsuo Nagata connected to Akira Kurosawa?
Mitsuo Nagata appeared in Kurosawa's 1948 film 'Women of the Night,' which was one of the director's early works exploring social issues in post-war Japan. This connects him to one of cinema's most influential directors during a formative period.
Learn More
Films
1 film
