Movie spotlight
The Anabasis of May and Fusako Shigenobu, Masao Adachi, and 27 Years Without Images
A film on exile, revolution, landscapes and memory, Anabasis brings forth the remarkable parallel stories of Adachi and May, one a filmmaker who gave up images, the other a young woman whose identity-less existence forbade keeping images of her own life. Fittingly returning the image to their lives, director Eric Baudelaire places Adachi and May’s revelatory voiceover reminiscences against warm, fragile Super-8mm footage of their split milieus, Tokyo and Beirut. Grounding their wide-ranging reflections in a solid yet complex reality, Anabasis provides a richly rewarding look at a fascinating, now nearly forgotten era (in politics and cinema), reminding us of film’s own ability to portray—and influence—its landscape.
Insights
Plot Summary
This documentary explores the intertwined lives of Fusako Shigenobu, a radical Japanese activist, and her daughter May, who grew up in captivity and under various aliases. Director Eric Baudelaire investigates their story through the lens of Masao Adachi, a filmmaker associated with the Japanese Red Army, and the political turmoil of their era. The film grapples with themes of ideology, displacement, and the power of imagery.
Critical Reception
The film was critically acclaimed for its unique approach to political documentary filmmaking, blending personal narrative with historical context. Critics praised its intellectual rigor and Baudelaire's innovative storytelling, though some found its pacing deliberate. It is recognized as a significant work in contemporary documentary cinema.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its ambitious and innovative approach to political documentary.
Commended for its intellectual depth and exploration of complex themes.
Noted for its deliberate pacing and meditative quality.
Google audience: Audiences generally appreciated the film's thought-provoking narrative and its unique perspective on radical politics and personal history. Many found it to be a challenging yet rewarding viewing experience, highlighting its intellectual engagement and historical significance.
Awards & Accolades
Nominated for the Grand Prix at the FIDMarseille International Film Festival.
Fun Fact
The film's title references 'Anabasis,' a military term meaning a march inland, referring to the arduous journey and experiences of its subjects.
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