Sharaku (1995): cast, story & where to watch
1995 · Film · ★ 6.1

Released in 1995, Sharaku is a drama and history film directed by Masahiro Shinoda, running about 140 minutes.
What it’s about. A crippled kabuki player is taken into a strolling company of itinerant actors. An influential publisher notices his honest, bold drawings, and nurtures him despite persecution and betrayal. The film explores the eternal relationship between artist and producer, and describes the emanicipation of a man who refuses to let himself become the plaything of power and money.
Who’s in it. Sharaku stars Hiroyuki Sanada as Tonbo, Shima Iwashita as Okan, Frankie Sakai as Tsutaya and Tsurutarō Kataoka as Ikugorō, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 6.1/10, Sharaku has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Sharaku page.
If you liked it. Fans of Sharaku tend to enjoy The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather, Schindler's List and The Godfather Part II.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch Sharaku (1995)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for Sharaku change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is Sharaku worth watching?
- Sharaku holds an audience score of 6.1 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy drama and history. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in Sharaku?
- Sharaku stars Hiroyuki Sanada, Shima Iwashita, Frankie Sakai, Tsurutarō Kataoka and Shirō Sano.
- When was Sharaku released?
- Sharaku was released in 1995, with a runtime of about 140 minutes.
