Tough and ready Mitsu, the rickshaw man, goes in for anything rough and tumble. His life changes, however, when he crosses paths with Toshio, a young boy who has injured himself. As thanks for helping the boy to the doctor, Toshio's parents, the Yoshiokas, invite Mitsu to dinner and he gladly accepts their offer. They become close and when Mr. Yoshioka dies from an illness, the family asks Mitsu to serve as the young boy's tutor. Mitsu does an exemplary job readying Toshio for school, instilling in him the honesty and honor which are so much a part of his own character. After Toshio leaves for school, Mitsu evidences an interest in Mrs. Yoshioka, but their difference in station keeps him from expressing his desire. Mitsu's repressed attraction for the lovely widow grows, driving him to his death at the film's climactic end. The Rickshaw Man is a sentimental favorite of Japanese cinema.
~ Brian Whitener, All Movie Guide