The film is known for a plot device which involves various characters providing alternative versions of the same incident. The name of the film refers to the enormous city gate of Kyoto. Although the film was released to only a small number of cinemas internationally, Rashomon introduced Kurosawa and the Japanese film to Western audiences. It is considered a masterpiece and has won numerous awards, including the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival, and an Academy Honorary Award at the 24th Academy Awards.