The Hidden Fortress is one of the movies that had the most influence on the original Star Wars flick, and it could have had an even bigger impact on the space saga. Akira Kurosawa, who directed the Japanese classic, worked regularly with Toshiro Mifune. And, initially, George Lucas sought out Mifune, one of his acting heroes, to play the role of Darth Vader. For real. It's well-known amongst Star Wars fans that Mifune was offered the role of Obi-Wan Kenobi (which he turned down), but - according to Mifune's daughter, Mika - he was also given the opportunity to play the iconic villain, too. Had Mifune accepted the part, the Vader that we all know and love would have ceased to exist as the actor's face would have been made visible throughout the film. It's crazy to think this decision might've changed everything.
Sam Hill is an ardent cinephile and has been writing about film professionally since 2008. He harbours a particular fondness for western and sci-fi movies.
