The Mikado (1983): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 1983, The Mikado is a comedy and music film directed by Norman Campbell, running about 150 minutes. “The Town of Titipu” — that tagline sets the tone.

What it’s about. In a mythical Japan, Ko-Ko, a cheap tailor, has been appointed Lord High Executioner and must find someone to execute before the arrival of the ruling Mikado. He lights upon Nanki-Poo, a strolling minstrel who loves the beautiful Yum-Yum. But Yum-Yum is also loved by Ko-Ko, and Nanki-Poo, seeing no hope for his love, considers suicide. Ko-Ko offers to solve both their problems by executing Nanki-Poo, and an agreement is reached whereby Ko-Ko will allow Nanki-Poo to marry Yum-Yum for one month, at the end of which Nanki-Poo will be executed, in time for the arrival of the Mikado. But what Ko-Ko doesn't know is that Nanki-Poo is the son of the Mikado and has run away to avoid a betrothal to an old harridan named Katisha. The arrival of the Mikado brings all the threads of the tale together. This is the Stratford Festival of Canada, directed by Brian Macdonald. This is a filmed version of a stage performance, and the sets are beautifully spare and economical.

Who’s in it. The Mikado stars Gidon Saks as The Mikado of Japan, Henry Ingram as Nanki Poo, Eric Donkin as Ko Ko and Richard McMillan as Pooh-Bah, among others.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch The Mikado page.

If you liked it. Fans of The Mikado tend to enjoy Forrest Gump, Parasite, Life Is Beautiful and Fight Club.