Akira Kurosawa was a prominent Japanese filmmaker who is considered one of the most important and influential filmmakers in the history of cinema. He was born on March 23, 1910, in Tokyo, Japan. Kurosawa's career spanned over 50 years, during which he directed numerous critically acclaimed and award-winning films, such as 'Rashomon', 'Seven Samurai', and 'Yojimbo'. He was known for his innovative storytelling techniques, use of narrative and visual elements, and profound exploration of human nature and morality.