They each have their champions, but which of the 3 masters do you consider the greatest Japanese filmmaker? For me, there's no question it's gotta be Mizoguchi. Story of the Late Crysantheum is the best Japanese film ever hands down. Everything about his direction makes me want to cry with envy (as a wannabe director) and also sit back in awe at amazing compositions and camera movement. Mizoguchi ranks with Welles, Renoir & Ophuls as one of the all-time greatest ever, Japanese or not.