Golgo 13 is a 1973 Japanese–Iranian action film directed by Junya Sato, starring Ken Takakura as the international assassin Golgo 13. It is the first live-action movie based on the Japanese manga series Golgo 13. It was filmed almost entirely in the Imperial State of Iran, with an almost entirely Persian supporting cast. It was followed by the film Golgo 13: Assignment Kowloon (1977), starring Sonny Chiba.

Ken Takakura , born Goichi Oda , was a Japanese actor and singer who appeared in over 200 films. Affectionately referred to as "Ken-san" by audiences, he was best known for his brooding style and the stoic presence he brought to his roles. He won the Japan Academy Prize for Outstanding Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role four times, more than any other actor. Takakura additionally received the Japanese Medal of Honor with purple ribbon in 1998, the Person of Cultural Merit award in 2006, and the Order of Culture in 2013.