Rashomon

As a rainstorm begins to pour, a woodcutter and a priest take refuge in the ruins of the Rashomon gatehouse. Their desperate shelter sets the stage for a strange and horrifying story that will unfold about a recent murder.

Three days earlier, the woodcutter ventured into the mountains to gather firewood. While walking through the woods, he stumbles upon a corpse hidden among the leaves, which sends him running to report his disturbing find to the police.

In the courthouse garden, the woodcutter testifies about his discovery of the body. He claims he found nothing but a few hats, ropes, and an amulet case, inadvertently revealing key details that will shape the investigation.

The priest shares his account of seeing the samurai just days before his death, riding along the road with a woman. His testimony reflects on the nature of life and death, as he expresses sorrow for the tragedy.

The policeman reveals that he captured the notorious bandit, Tajomaru, two days prior. In a vivid recollection, he describes how the bandit was found writhing by a riverbank, emphasizing the chaotic nature of the events surrounding the murder.

Tajomaru admits to killing the samurai, recounting the events with a bravado that diminishes as the details emerge. He explains how jealousy drove him to harm the samurai after tricking the wife into being emotionally vulnerable.

In a shocking turn, the woman demands that the men duel to the death after the bandit has incapacitated her husband. This leads to a fierce and tense sword fight, highlighting the chaotic conflict among the characters.

The woman recounts her own harrowing experience, revealing the emotional turmoil she faced amidst the violence. After her husband's death, she attempts suicide, expressing her deep remorse and despair over the tragic events.

A medium performs a ritual, channeling the voice of the deceased samurai. His testimony is filled with sentiments that contradict the woman and the bandit's stories, painting a complex picture of love and betrayal.

The woodcutter reveals, with hesitance, that he witnessed the fatal encounter from a distance. He claims the truth of the murder doesn't align with either story presented, challenging the credibility of the testimonies he has heard.

As tensions rise, the commoner expresses his disillusionment about human nature, questioning the honesty of those involved. His remarks about morality resonate amidst the conflicting accounts of the murder.

The group hears the cry of an abandoned baby, prompting a further discussion on morality and responsibility. The woodcutter finds himself confronted with his own shortcomings as he reflects on human decency.

Despite their earlier doubts and conflicts, the woodcutter and the priest find a moment of understanding. The priest hands the baby to the woodcutter, marking a small but significant act of faith in humanity.

As the rain finally stops, the woodcutter walks away from the Rashomon gatehouse, feeling a sense of resolution. His journey into the sunlight signifies a glimmer of hope in a world clouded by darkness and deceit.