Akira Kurosawa's 1958 film "The Hidden Fortress" ("Kakushi Toride no San Akunin") is getting a remake, directed by special effects specialist Shinji Higuchi. This version will star Arashi member Jun Matsumoto in his first jidaigeki role, with a supporting cast that includes popular actress Masami Nagasawa.

The original film starred Toshiro Mifune as the defeated general Rokurota trying to secretly escort a princess and her wealth to safety. Along the way, he is joined in the journey by two peasants. In Higuchi's version, the story's protagonist is the peasant Takezo (played by Matsumoto), rather than the general.

Masami Nagasawa plays the role of the princess, while Hiroshi Abe plays Rokurota. According to Sports Hochi, comedian Daisuke Miyagawa is also part of the cast, and Kazuki Nakashima is handling the adaptation of the script.

The movie reportedly has a budget of 1.5 billion yen. Filming starts next month and lasts until the end of the year, with theatrical release set for May 10, 2008.