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The Cinema of Ozu According to Kiju Yoshida
Yoshida grew close to Ozu Yasujiro during his time at Shochiku, where he was able to observe the legendary master at work. Although Yoshida and his generation outspokenly rejected the values of Ozu, Kurosawa and the older humanist filmmakers, over the years Yoshida found himself increasingly drawn back to Ozu’s films, fascinated by their unique rigor, formal language and delicate balance between comedy and tragedy. For Japanese television, Yoshida adapted his own text into a four part documentary, which he also condensed into the one hour version.
Insights
Plot Summary
This documentary offers a unique perspective on the acclaimed Japanese filmmaker Yasujirō Ozu through the eyes of his contemporary and fellow director, Kiju Yoshida. Yoshida delves into Ozu's distinctive style, thematic concerns, and lasting influence on cinema. The film features interviews and archival footage, providing insight into Ozu's creative process and his profound impact on filmmaking.
Critical Reception
The film received critical acclaim for its insightful analysis and personal approach to exploring Ozu's work. It is lauded as an essential watch for cinephiles interested in Japanese cinema and the legacy of Yasujirō Ozu, offering a rare glimpse into the mind of one master director reflecting on another.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its deeply personal and insightful examination of Ozu's oeuvre.
Highlights the unique directorial styles and philosophies of both Ozu and Yoshida.
Considered a valuable documentary for understanding Ozu's cinematic legacy through a peer's perspective.
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Fun Fact
Kiju Yoshida, a prominent figure in the Japanese New Wave, was a younger contemporary of Yasujirō Ozu, and this film represents a rare instance of one master director critically analyzing another's body of work in depth.
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