Michael Rich - On Akira Kurosawa

The speaker reflects on the concept of a favorite teacher, emphasizing that we are shaped by all our experiences and educators. They highlight the profound impact of working with Japanese film director Icatar Kurosawa, who taught them about humanity and compassion despite his difficult personality. The experience of being an outsider in Japan was both humbling and centering, teaching the speaker about the universality of being 'the other.' Kurosawa's films often depict heroes and villains as similar, with the key difference being the hero's continuous journey of growth. This idea parallels the speaker's view of education as a lifelong quest for knowledge and self-improvement.

What was the most significant lesson the speaker learned from Icatar Kurosawa?

• The importance of technical skills in filmmaking

• The value of compassion and humanity in storytelling

• The role of humor in engaging audiences

• The necessity of strict discipline in work

What nickname was given to Icatar Kurosawa in Japan?

• The Emperor

• The Master

• The Genius

• The Artist

How did the speaker's experience in Japan influence their understanding of identity?

• It emphasized the need for assimilation

• It provided a humbling and centering experience of being 'the other'

• It highlighted the importance of language skills

• It reinforced the idea of cultural superiority

According to the speaker, what is a key difference between heroes and villains in Kurosawa's films?

• Heroes are always successful, while villains fail

• Heroes are always evolving, while villains see themselves as complete

• Villains are more charismatic than heroes

• Villains are more intelligent than heroes

What does the speaker believe is the ultimate goal of education?

• To achieve perfection

• To constantly learn and strive towards an unreachable goal

• To become a master in one field

• To gain recognition and awards