These creations represent an opportunity for cinephiles around the world to reengage with Seven Samurai on the 70th anniversary of its premiere, for which I am sincerely grateful. The boldly conceived designs, which use iconic scenes and newly created illustrations to recreate the world of Kurosawa’s oeuvre, will doubtless attract attention
overseas in particular.

My grandfather lived in a different age, and I’m sure the things he valued were completely different from me. Even so, when I watch one of his works, it shakes my soul. The opportunity to share this universality, albeit in a different genre, through Seven Samurai and Porter Classic, whose work is always filled with joy, feels deeply meaningful to me.

From the moment I saw the first samples, Leo and Katsu’s fondness for cinema and love of Akira Kurosawa came through clearly. The boldness of their designs is particularly reminiscent of a Kurosawa film. “Free, sensitive, and bold”—this is the feeling I get from these creations. I’m already looking forward to wearing them myself.

I am delighted to see my father Toshiro Mifune given new life through this wonderful fashion. I hope that this project leads many people to a new appreciation of Toshiro Mifune and Kurosawa’s work.

At the time there were no Japanese leather carvers. So my father (Kichizo) searched for an artisan. Above all, he valued artisans. He valued them to a remarkable extent. I wish we could have shown him this. I’m sure he’d have loved it.

Stylish fifty years ago, and still stylish to grandchildren today—that’s the kind of monozukuri we aim for. In that respect, Kurosawa’s work is a wonderful teacher. I see his oeuvre as part of Japan’s cultural heritage.