Before The Avengers, There Was Seven Samurai

Professor Jason Abbott (Political Science, Law, History and Anthropology) will present a public lecture for Lectures on Tap exploring the extraordinary influence of Akira Kurosawa’s Seven Samurai on modern popular culture. 

Released in 1954, Seven Samurai helped establish the template for the ensemble action film: a group of distinctive characters brought together for a common purpose, each contributing different skills and personalities. Its influence can be seen directly in The Magnificent Seven and more broadly in later ensemble films and superhero teams, including The Avengers. 

The talk will examine what later adaptations borrowed from Kurosawa and what they changed, including the film’s treatment of heroism, class and the relationship between the samurai and the villagers they defend. 

Date: Thursday, October 1, 2026 

Location: Crystal Lake Brooklyn, 647 Grand St, Brooklyn, NY 11211 

Tickets and further information

This is part of the Lectures on Tap public lecture series in New York City. Professor Abbott’s talk draws on his research and teaching on politics, history and popular culture in East Asia. The lecture will run approximately 45 minutes and will be accompanied by slides.