With films like “Destruction Babies” and “Miyamoto”, Tetsuya Mariko has really left an impact in the Japanese movie industry during the latest years, as one of the few remaining directors of ‘tense cinema', as established by directors such as Takashi Miike, Sion Sono, Toshiaki Toyoda and Shinya Tsukamoto. Now, with “Before Anyone Else”, he attempts to take his talents outside Japan, to the US specifically, hopefully in a new endeavor and not because he cannot find space in his home country anymore.
Before Anyone Else is screening at Osaka Asian Film Festival
In black-and-white and low definition, the movie begins with a young woman driving a car, getting out of it, and then the camera turning to the backseat, showing a baby sitting there. The next cut shows a completely different scene, in color this time, where a group of four Americans and Asian Americans break into a pawn shop.
Before Anyone Else is screening at Osaka Asian Film Festival
In black-and-white and low definition, the movie begins with a young woman driving a car, getting out of it, and then the camera turning to the backseat, showing a baby sitting there. The next cut shows a completely different scene, in color this time, where a group of four Americans and Asian Americans break into a pawn shop.
- 3/3/2024
- by Panos Kotzathanasis
- AsianMoviePulse
Throughout his career, Hong Kong director Lawrence Ah Mon has told numerous stories about the disenfranchised in Hk society. Considering most of his colleagues focused on genres such as thriller and action, his features stand out as they give the viewer an idea of the way issues such as the shift between generations, youth culture and the feelings of teenage angst and isolation are experienced in Hk culture. Perhaps one of the most noteworthy examples of his filmography is “Spacked Out” from 2000, a feature which was honored with as “Film of Merit” by the Hong Kong Film Critics in 2001 and has recently been restored so that audiences worldwide have the chance to experience this story one more time or maybe even for the first time.
Spacked Out is screening for a one-week New York exclusive theatrical run at Metrograph theater and a two-week exclusive streaming release on Metrograph At Home,...
Spacked Out is screening for a one-week New York exclusive theatrical run at Metrograph theater and a two-week exclusive streaming release on Metrograph At Home,...
- 12/31/2023
- by Rouven Linnarz
- AsianMoviePulse
Ryuhei Matsuda was born on the 9th of May, 1983, in Tokyo, to actress and producer Miyuki Matsuda and actor Yûsaku Matsuda, and only six years later he loses his father to cancer at the premature age of 40. At only 15, Ryuhei is approached by Nagisa Oshima with the life changing offer of a prominent role in his film Gohatto. Since then, Matsuda's magnetic charisma and remarkable versatility have allowed him to portray a wide range of characters, from brooding antiheroes to quirky and endearing figures, captivating audiences both in Japan and internationally.
With a unique ability to immerse himself in diverse roles, he has left an indelible mark on Japanese cinema and continues to be a beloved and influential figure in the world of acting. However, Matsuda's congenital air of disdain for the whole world, his glacial aloofness mixed with his innate handsomeness make him the prototype of effortless coolness,...
With a unique ability to immerse himself in diverse roles, he has left an indelible mark on Japanese cinema and continues to be a beloved and influential figure in the world of acting. However, Matsuda's congenital air of disdain for the whole world, his glacial aloofness mixed with his innate handsomeness make him the prototype of effortless coolness,...
- 11/9/2023
- by Adriana Rosati
- AsianMoviePulse
Taichi Kimura lives between two worlds. The Japanese filmmaker based in London made himself a name in the music industry by producing videos for Chemical Brothers, David Guetta, Chase & Status, and many more. Now, the 36-year-old director makes his debut on the big screen with his first feature „Afterglows“.
Director Taichi Kimura visited the Japannual Film Festival in Vienna for the international premiere of his debut film “Afterglows”. In our interview, the ambitious filmmaker reveals his vision for the Japanese film industry and gives personal insights into his career.
Let’s start with the basics. Who are you? What’s your background and what made you become a filmmaker?
I was born in Japan and I was raised in the middle of Tokyo. So, I was actually a city boy. I think the film that really got me was probably “Jurassic Park” (1993). I was like only five years old or something like that.
Director Taichi Kimura visited the Japannual Film Festival in Vienna for the international premiere of his debut film “Afterglows”. In our interview, the ambitious filmmaker reveals his vision for the Japanese film industry and gives personal insights into his career.
Let’s start with the basics. Who are you? What’s your background and what made you become a filmmaker?
I was born in Japan and I was raised in the middle of Tokyo. So, I was actually a city boy. I think the film that really got me was probably “Jurassic Park” (1993). I was like only five years old or something like that.
- 10/15/2023
- by Alexander Knoth
- AsianMoviePulse
A number of people in Amp, including this author, have a soft spot for Kiyohiko Shibukawa, an actor who has proven a true chameleon in the way he jumps from one part to another, with equal success. Shibukawa, born July 2, 1974, actually started his career as a fashion model under the name Kee. He started acting in TV with “Twinkle”, in 1998, and he got his first role in cinema in Toshiaki Toyoda's “Pornostar”, with him actually accompanying the director in most of his later works, something that actually happened with the rest of the filmmakers he was casted by over the years. These include, among others, Takashi Miike, Ryusuke Hamaguchi, and Eiji Uchida. Currently, his credits number 160, with the majority of them being non-protagonist roles, which, still, though do not prevent him from shining quite brightly, particularly to the more “trained” eye.
Without further ado, here are 10 of his most iconic performances,...
Without further ado, here are 10 of his most iconic performances,...
- 9/19/2023
- by Panos Kotzathanasis
- AsianMoviePulse
A journey through the iconic and enchanting musical compositions that have graced the silver screens of Asia. From the lively streets of Bollywood to the poetic landscapes of Japanese cinema, from the poignant stories of South Korean movies to the tales of Hong Kong and Chinese films, and with a pinch from the Philippines and Thailand here 35 great songs found in Asian movies.
1. Remioromen by Konayuki 2. A Petal by Woong San 3. Chavoret's Theme by Joe Cummings & Scott Hess 4. Ruined Heart by Khavn, featuring Bing Austria & The Flippin' Soul Stompers 5. Chitchana Toki Kara by Maki Asakawa 6. これさえあれば by Tjiros 7. Nounai Shoukyo Game by Brats 8. Romanticist by The Stalin 9. High Upon High by Jackie Chan 10. Jason Bill by Texaco Leatherman The article continues on the next page...
1. Remioromen by Konayuki 2. A Petal by Woong San 3. Chavoret's Theme by Joe Cummings & Scott Hess 4. Ruined Heart by Khavn, featuring Bing Austria & The Flippin' Soul Stompers 5. Chitchana Toki Kara by Maki Asakawa 6. これさえあれば by Tjiros 7. Nounai Shoukyo Game by Brats 8. Romanticist by The Stalin 9. High Upon High by Jackie Chan 10. Jason Bill by Texaco Leatherman The article continues on the next page...
- 8/31/2023
- by Panos Kotzathanasis
- AsianMoviePulse
Following “Alive” from 2022, Toshiaki Toyoda has come up with the fifth entry in his “Wolf Resurrection” series, titled “Right Now”. The 18-minute short is a sequel to “Alive” an which a man goes missing in the mountains and is drowned by a waterfall deep in the mountains. The film was shot in Tochigi Prefecture and stars Toyoda's frequent collaborator Kiyohiko Shibukawa
In addition to the music by Seppuku Pistols, Kenji Nakagomi and Yuta Sumiyoshi from Kodo, a taiko performing arts group based on Sado Island that continues to spread traditional Japanese performing arts to the world, and Kakko-horn performance unit Shelltones, headed by Kakko master and first-class Horaishi priest of the Kinpozan Temple Shugendo Honshu, Kakugo Miyashita, have been announced as additional participants. Along with this, the new song “Wolf Roaring Gate” by Seppuku Pistols has been chosen as the ending song.
On July 24th,World Premiere Public Screening Event...
In addition to the music by Seppuku Pistols, Kenji Nakagomi and Yuta Sumiyoshi from Kodo, a taiko performing arts group based on Sado Island that continues to spread traditional Japanese performing arts to the world, and Kakko-horn performance unit Shelltones, headed by Kakko master and first-class Horaishi priest of the Kinpozan Temple Shugendo Honshu, Kakugo Miyashita, have been announced as additional participants. Along with this, the new song “Wolf Roaring Gate” by Seppuku Pistols has been chosen as the ending song.
On July 24th,World Premiere Public Screening Event...
- 7/16/2023
- by Panos Kotzathanasis
- AsianMoviePulse
In the article series Sound and Vision we take a look at music videos from notable directors. This week we look at Asian Kung-Fu Generation's A Flower Named You, directed by Toshiaki Toyoda. My favorite Japanese director is Toshiaki Toyoda. I considerThe Day of Destruction and Go Seppuku Yourselves to be two of the greatest politically charged films of the Covid-era, addressing the powers that be in a way that is blunt yet cathartic. The films of Toshiaki Toyoda are often born from anger, volatile and explosive missives that touch a raw nerve. A film like Monster's Club, for instance, is a prickly yet nuanced portrait of an anarchist terrorist, while Blue Spring tackles the violent nature of teenagers in a way that is over...
[Read the whole post on screenanarchy.com...]...
[Read the whole post on screenanarchy.com...]...
- 7/3/2023
- Screen Anarchy
The one and only Toshiaki Toyoda is a filmmaker who responds to the times and society and continues to shake the world and cinemas with his unwavering faith and prayers.
With the belief in wolf resurrection at its core, he continues to produce films that challenge the age of chaos every year, including 2019’s Wolf Smoke Calls, 2020’s Day of Destruction, and 2021’s Everybody Commits Seppuku. in 2022 will release his latest film, Alive.
The latest feature film Transcending Dimensions will be produced in the year 2023. On 27 September, when the funeral of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will be held, the production will be announced and a crowdfunding campaign will be launched. The target amount is 100 million yen and support will be sought until 31 December. The image visual released with the production announcement shows a reddish image of the Earth floating in space.
The film, for which a script is currently being written,...
With the belief in wolf resurrection at its core, he continues to produce films that challenge the age of chaos every year, including 2019’s Wolf Smoke Calls, 2020’s Day of Destruction, and 2021’s Everybody Commits Seppuku. in 2022 will release his latest film, Alive.
The latest feature film Transcending Dimensions will be produced in the year 2023. On 27 September, when the funeral of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will be held, the production will be announced and a crowdfunding campaign will be launched. The target amount is 100 million yen and support will be sought until 31 December. The image visual released with the production announcement shows a reddish image of the Earth floating in space.
The film, for which a script is currently being written,...
- 9/29/2022
- by AMP Group
- AsianMoviePulse
I do not think there is any other movie industry in the world that produces so many movies about toxic individuals as the Japanese one, with the independent sector in particular dealing with this type of personas quite frequently, as filmmakers like Shinya Tsukamoro. Tetsuya Mariko and Toshiaki Toyoda extensively focus on this type of loser. Nobuhiro Yamashita attempts to do the same, adapting the Akutagawa Prize-winning novel “Kueki Ressha” by Kenta Nishimura, adding though, a very significant element, the presence of female character Yasuko, who did not exist in the original.
on Amazon by clicking on the image below
The character in focus is named Kanta Kitamachi, and he is the epitome of the term ‘loser’. Coming from a family that fell apart when his father was convicted as a sex offender, the 19-year-old has been living alone in a tiny apartment, spending all the money...
on Amazon by clicking on the image below
The character in focus is named Kanta Kitamachi, and he is the epitome of the term ‘loser’. Coming from a family that fell apart when his father was convicted as a sex offender, the 19-year-old has been living alone in a tiny apartment, spending all the money...
- 9/7/2022
- by Panos Kotzathanasis
- AsianMoviePulse
Terracotta Blu-ray & Dvd Store
Hong Kong neon-noir police action, On The Run, is out in September via 88Films. This gritty, and sometimes brutal film, features Yuen Biao in a full-on action and dramatic role, a change from the comedy-action films he is known for. Yuen Biao plays a police officer, trying to solve the case of his wife’s murder, and slowly unravels the layers of who he can and can’t trust in his circle. Pre-order now at a special discounted price on the Terracotta store Here
Might as well go for the Yuen Biao double. Also released in September, Righting Wrongs is some straight up beat ’em up Hong Kong 80’s action cinema. Starring Yuen Biao and Cynthia Rothrock, this release comes packed full of extras and special features, again via 88Films Here
July Blu-ray Releases
Summer Time Machine Blues – hilarious Japanese time-travel comedy featuring student high-jinks and a broken air-conditioner.
Hong Kong neon-noir police action, On The Run, is out in September via 88Films. This gritty, and sometimes brutal film, features Yuen Biao in a full-on action and dramatic role, a change from the comedy-action films he is known for. Yuen Biao plays a police officer, trying to solve the case of his wife’s murder, and slowly unravels the layers of who he can and can’t trust in his circle. Pre-order now at a special discounted price on the Terracotta store Here
Might as well go for the Yuen Biao double. Also released in September, Righting Wrongs is some straight up beat ’em up Hong Kong 80’s action cinema. Starring Yuen Biao and Cynthia Rothrock, this release comes packed full of extras and special features, again via 88Films Here
July Blu-ray Releases
Summer Time Machine Blues – hilarious Japanese time-travel comedy featuring student high-jinks and a broken air-conditioner.
- 7/2/2022
- by Adriana Rosati
- AsianMoviePulse
The impact the Tokyo Olympic Games had, particularly due to the extreme repercussions the pandemic had in their commencing, is a topic that is bound to become “popular” in the country’s movie industry in the next few years, while Toshiaki Toyoda has already presented his opinion through his latest works. Akinore Isuse’s rather unusual short is another effort to deal with the topic, in a whole different setting however.
Out of Tokyo 202x screened at Osaka Asian Film Festival
The story begins on the opening day of the Games, outside of the Olympic stadium, where Rika, a woman from the future, meets Shin, who has arrived there also from the future, but from a different one. As the two of them reveal their true identities, they start to think and talk about the concept of the Olympic Games, in a discussion that eventually includes the ancient Greek ones.
Out of Tokyo 202x screened at Osaka Asian Film Festival
The story begins on the opening day of the Games, outside of the Olympic stadium, where Rika, a woman from the future, meets Shin, who has arrived there also from the future, but from a different one. As the two of them reveal their true identities, they start to think and talk about the concept of the Olympic Games, in a discussion that eventually includes the ancient Greek ones.
- 3/30/2022
- by Panos Kotzathanasis
- AsianMoviePulse
Terracotta Streaming – Nobuhiko Obayashi focus
Terracotta is now streaming the Obayashi Anti-War trilogy of films. Casting Blossoms to the Sky, Seven Weeks and Hanagatami offer three different stories from the celebrated director of Hausu.
For fans of Japanese cinema, Terracotta also has a collection of films from Sion Sono, Shinya Tsukamoto and Toshiaki Toyoda.
Check out the growing selection of titles on the Terracotta streaming site; new titles are added regularly.
(UK and Eire only)
Terracotta Blu-ray & DVD Store
Eureka have announced three new kung fu titles on Blu-ray, with a limited first run slipcase edition. The first up is Odd Couple starring Sammo Hung.
Knockabout and the much anticipated release of Dreadnaught starring Yuen Biao and directed by Yuen Woo Ping, are both out in April. All three are available to pre-order from the Terracotta store.
Check out the titles in the Lunar New Year promotion – titles start from...
Terracotta is now streaming the Obayashi Anti-War trilogy of films. Casting Blossoms to the Sky, Seven Weeks and Hanagatami offer three different stories from the celebrated director of Hausu.
For fans of Japanese cinema, Terracotta also has a collection of films from Sion Sono, Shinya Tsukamoto and Toshiaki Toyoda.
Check out the growing selection of titles on the Terracotta streaming site; new titles are added regularly.
(UK and Eire only)
Terracotta Blu-ray & DVD Store
Eureka have announced three new kung fu titles on Blu-ray, with a limited first run slipcase edition. The first up is Odd Couple starring Sammo Hung.
Knockabout and the much anticipated release of Dreadnaught starring Yuen Biao and directed by Yuen Woo Ping, are both out in April. All three are available to pre-order from the Terracotta store.
Check out the titles in the Lunar New Year promotion – titles start from...
- 2/9/2022
- by Suzie Cho
- AsianMoviePulse
Even before 2021 began, things were looking positive for Asian film representation on physical media. Companies like Criterion Collection, Eureka Entertainment and 88 Films had already-announced Asian film releases up for preorder. Despite that, nobody could have anticipated the tremendous constant output that we would get, with each other these companies going a step further for the addition of Asian titles in their catalogue, while new companies also kickstarted with a specific aim to produce and distribute Asian titles on bluray and DVD. This resulted in a new Asian title being released almost every month to much fanfare, delighting fans and collectors alike.
Without further ado, we list down 30 Best Asian DVD and Blu-Ray releases of 2021, in no particular order.
By clicking on the images, you will be redirected to the respective e-shops
1. Battle Royale (Limited Edition) (Arrow Video)
Arrow Video has been taking strides inn the 4K Uhd market and...
Without further ado, we list down 30 Best Asian DVD and Blu-Ray releases of 2021, in no particular order.
By clicking on the images, you will be redirected to the respective e-shops
1. Battle Royale (Limited Edition) (Arrow Video)
Arrow Video has been taking strides inn the 4K Uhd market and...
- 12/19/2021
- by Rhythm Zaveri
- AsianMoviePulse
The Sardinian international festival dedicated to Asian cinema, Across Asia Film Festival, is back with its eight edition and is going to run from 16 to 20 December 2021 in Cagliari.
Born with the aim of making Far Eastern film production known to the public, developing international cultural exchanges and favouring a more in-depth intercultural vision, the festival is finally back in attendance, after the success of the previous editions in Cagliari and Rome. With a wide-ranging program that includes training sessions and meetings with international guests, the festival offers a diversified exploration, this year focusing in particular on female cinema and independent Japanese cinema. Five days of appointments; screenings of European and national premieres, masterclasses, meetings with international guests, installations, special events. Moreover, until January 31st 2022 at the “Stefano Cardu” Siamese Art Museum, the exhibition “Japanese Notebooks” will showcase illustrations by Igort, one of the Sardinian artists who explored the Far East...
Born with the aim of making Far Eastern film production known to the public, developing international cultural exchanges and favouring a more in-depth intercultural vision, the festival is finally back in attendance, after the success of the previous editions in Cagliari and Rome. With a wide-ranging program that includes training sessions and meetings with international guests, the festival offers a diversified exploration, this year focusing in particular on female cinema and independent Japanese cinema. Five days of appointments; screenings of European and national premieres, masterclasses, meetings with international guests, installations, special events. Moreover, until January 31st 2022 at the “Stefano Cardu” Siamese Art Museum, the exhibition “Japanese Notebooks” will showcase illustrations by Igort, one of the Sardinian artists who explored the Far East...
- 12/7/2021
- by Adriana Rosati
- AsianMoviePulse
Ursprünglich hätte Regisseur Toshiaki Toyoda der neue Stern am Himmel der Shogi-Spieler werden können, hatte er doch, wie viele andere junge Männer, hart trainiert und Jahre seines Lebens in den das Spiel, dessen Strategien und Taktiken investiert. Dann jedoch zog er nach Tokio und begann eine ganz andere Karriere als Filmemacher, die 1999 fulminant mit seinem Spielfilmdebüt „Pornostar“, auch bekannt unter dem Titel „Tokyo Rampage“, begann. Mit diesem ersten Film machte er nicht nur auf sich aufmerksam, sondern setzte den Grundstein für ein wütendes Kino, welche, mit reichlich Verweisen auf die japanische Pop- und Jugendkultur, auf Themen wie Gewalt, Verbrechen, soziale Isolation und Ungleichheit verwies, die Toyodas Werk bis heute prägen und zu einem der wohl wichtigsten zeitgenössischen Filmografien machen.
Im Zentrum der Handlung steht Arano (Koji Chihara), ein junger Mann, der eines Tages im Tokioter Stadtteil Shibuya erscheint. Unauffällig und den Kopf vergraben in der weiten Kapuze seines dunkelgrünen Regenmantels...
Im Zentrum der Handlung steht Arano (Koji Chihara), ein junger Mann, der eines Tages im Tokioter Stadtteil Shibuya erscheint. Unauffällig und den Kopf vergraben in der weiten Kapuze seines dunkelgrünen Regenmantels...
- 11/19/2021
- by Rouven Linnarz
- AsianMoviePulse
The stories of the healing power which lies in art, especially music, are perhaps endless, both in fiction, but also in reality. Given the various modes of expression and the amount of freedom it provides for people, music may just be one of the most beautiful forms of art as well as the most delightful in terms of entertainment. Considering each culture has its own music and instruments, it goes without saying the number of stories in literature and film dealing with people finding their voice through music is enormous, and Yasuo Okuaki’s feature “Between Us” follows the formula as we witness the tale of two girls who find their own way to connect with each other and the world through the tradition of taiko drumming.
Between Us is screening at Camera Japan
Tamaki (Ayaka Konno) attends a Catholic private school and comes, like most of her classmates, from a wealthy family.
Between Us is screening at Camera Japan
Tamaki (Ayaka Konno) attends a Catholic private school and comes, like most of her classmates, from a wealthy family.
- 9/24/2021
- by Rouven Linnarz
- AsianMoviePulse
What began with “Pornostar” and “Blue Spring”, found its apogee in “9 Souls”, one of the greatest samples of Japanese indie cinema.
Nine convicts escape prison, since the tenth, Yamamoto, lost it just before a rat, which showed the others the way out, appeared on their cell. The convicts have decided to search for a money stash hidden by Yamamoto and so they function as a team, despite the fact that they differ in age, natire of crime and general background. Torakichi is the eldest and acts as the leader of the group. He has killed his own son. Kazuma is a young man, former member of a bike gang. He stabbed four members of his own group. Inui is a bomber (of sorts) who suffers from epilepsy. Shiratory is a dwarf, and a doctor who aided suicide. Michiru, the last one to enter prison, is an adolescent who killed his father.
Nine convicts escape prison, since the tenth, Yamamoto, lost it just before a rat, which showed the others the way out, appeared on their cell. The convicts have decided to search for a money stash hidden by Yamamoto and so they function as a team, despite the fact that they differ in age, natire of crime and general background. Torakichi is the eldest and acts as the leader of the group. He has killed his own son. Kazuma is a young man, former member of a bike gang. He stabbed four members of his own group. Inui is a bomber (of sorts) who suffers from epilepsy. Shiratory is a dwarf, and a doctor who aided suicide. Michiru, the last one to enter prison, is an adolescent who killed his father.
- 8/10/2021
- by Panos Kotzathanasis
- AsianMoviePulse
Films and documentaries about underdogs that manage to win, or people who were winners all their life is something common in cinema. Toshiaki Toyoda though, chose to deal with the exact opposite subject, a group of people headed by “Unchain” Kaji, who do not seem to get a break from the day they were born.
As the story unfolds starting with Kaji, we learn of his unfortunate life, which actually begun from his birth. His parents abandoned him when he was an infant and he was raised by his uncle, although he did not know that until he became 18. His uncle eventually died and he took up boxing, without, though, managing to win even once, as he retired with a record of eight losses and one draw, after severe damage to his eye. As he tries to start a new life as a civilian, his situation becomes even worse,...
As the story unfolds starting with Kaji, we learn of his unfortunate life, which actually begun from his birth. His parents abandoned him when he was an infant and he was raised by his uncle, although he did not know that until he became 18. His uncle eventually died and he took up boxing, without, though, managing to win even once, as he retired with a record of eight losses and one draw, after severe damage to his eye. As he tries to start a new life as a civilian, his situation becomes even worse,...
- 8/10/2021
- by Panos Kotzathanasis
- AsianMoviePulse
Using crime-filled Shibuya of the 90’s as his setting, Toshiaki Toyoda presents a true guerilla film, which frequently functions as a music video.
The film starts with a mysterious, almost catatonic young man named Arano, walking in the street and bumping everyone around him, in a more violent edition of The Verve’s “Bittersweet Symphony” music video. Eventually, he stumbles upon Kamijo, a young club-owner who struggles to stay away from the Yakuza, despite the fact that he is kind of a gangster himself. Through a series of violent episodes, Arano ends up in Kamijo’s group, as the latter appreciates his knack for violence. Their relationship though, is anything but smooth.
Toshiaki Toyoda presents a world where violence is the rule, where every man seems to be a gangster or on his way of becoming one. This world seems to be a perfect fit for Arano,...
The film starts with a mysterious, almost catatonic young man named Arano, walking in the street and bumping everyone around him, in a more violent edition of The Verve’s “Bittersweet Symphony” music video. Eventually, he stumbles upon Kamijo, a young club-owner who struggles to stay away from the Yakuza, despite the fact that he is kind of a gangster himself. Through a series of violent episodes, Arano ends up in Kamijo’s group, as the latter appreciates his knack for violence. Their relationship though, is anything but smooth.
Toshiaki Toyoda presents a world where violence is the rule, where every man seems to be a gangster or on his way of becoming one. This world seems to be a perfect fit for Arano,...
- 8/10/2021
- by Panos Kotzathanasis
- AsianMoviePulse
Boxing has always been a very cinematic sport, with the its overall rules and the head-to-head mentality providing material for both captivating scripts and impressive visuals. Asian cinema has also been dealing with the concept, even if sporadically, but recently, there has been a surge of titles revolving around boxing, as we are still waiting for Brillante Mendoza’s “Gensan Punch”, which the protagonist, Shogen, having described the shooting as a once in a lifetime experience.
Among these titles, we picked 15 we think are among the most captivating to watch, as always with a focus on diversity in country of origin, filmmaker and style, although Japan has taken the lion’s share of entries in this list. The list is in chronological order.
1. Knockout
Violent, funny, dramatic and quirky are few of the contradictory words that can describe both “Knockout” and Hidekazu Akai, who plays the protagonist here, Eiji. As...
Among these titles, we picked 15 we think are among the most captivating to watch, as always with a focus on diversity in country of origin, filmmaker and style, although Japan has taken the lion’s share of entries in this list. The list is in chronological order.
1. Knockout
Violent, funny, dramatic and quirky are few of the contradictory words that can describe both “Knockout” and Hidekazu Akai, who plays the protagonist here, Eiji. As...
- 7/12/2021
- by AMP Group
- AsianMoviePulse
The 21st Japanese Film Festival Nippon Connection is planned as a hybrid event and is scheduled for June 1 to 6, 2021. The event is expected to take place online and at a few selected venues in the city of Frankfurt am Main. On six days, the world’s largest festival for Japanese cinema presents a selection of over 100 current Japanese short and feature-length films. All films will be available via video on demand. In addition, several filmmakers will participate in online discussions and interviews live from Japan. Digital workshops, lectures, performances, and concerts complement the program.
Due to uncertainties regarding the further progression of the pandemic and associated regulations, planning the festival is extremely difficult. The organizing team of the Nippon Connection film festival is hopeful, however, that it will be possible to offer on-site cinema as well. “Film festivals always live from shared moments in the cinema and the film experience...
Due to uncertainties regarding the further progression of the pandemic and associated regulations, planning the festival is extremely difficult. The organizing team of the Nippon Connection film festival is hopeful, however, that it will be possible to offer on-site cinema as well. “Film festivals always live from shared moments in the cinema and the film experience...
- 4/3/2021
- by Rhythm Zaveri
- AsianMoviePulse
Tom Mes, in his book “Iron Man: The Cinema of Shinya Tsukamoto” writes: The international breakthrough of Tsukamoto and Tetsuo came at a time when Japanese cinema seemed all but forgotten by foreign minds. The monolithic Akira Kurosawa and a few survivors of the generation that had come to prominence in the 1960s – the filmmakers who made up the Japanese New Wave, most notably Nagisa Osima and Shohei Imamura – still gained praise during the ’80s, but it can be argued that the 1983 Palme d’Or for Imamura’s The Ballad of Narayama in Cannes had less impact than the award for Best Film from Tetsuo at the relatively modest FantaFestival in Rome. The reason is that not only was Tetsuo a film by a director from a new generation, it also brought a new generation of foreign fans to Japanese film. Rather than being built on the remnants of the past,...
- 3/26/2021
- by Panos Kotzathanasis
- AsianMoviePulse
Following the successful film “Wolf’s Calling” and “The Day of Destruction”, dir. Toshiaki Toyoda will produce another film called “Seppuku Everybody”. The film will be produced as part of the “Okami Yomigaeri Yama” trilogy project and this will be the last instalment of the series. “Okami Yomigaeri Yama” is the imaginary shrine and it was used as the film location for “Wolf’s Calling” and “The Day of Destruction”.
In addition, Toyoda Films will launch a crowdfunding campaign for the new film project. The original storyline and characters are still veiled in secrecy, but the protagonists will be Yosuke Kubozuka and Kiyohiko Shibukawa. Also the 20-person Edo punk band Seppuku Pistols, Kenta Nakagomie and Yuta Sumiyoshi from the Sado Island-based Taiko Performing Arts Ensemble “Kodo” and the DJ/Composer Mars89 will provide the soundtrack for the new film. The Campaign will last approximately five weeks, until 30th April at...
In addition, Toyoda Films will launch a crowdfunding campaign for the new film project. The original storyline and characters are still veiled in secrecy, but the protagonists will be Yosuke Kubozuka and Kiyohiko Shibukawa. Also the 20-person Edo punk band Seppuku Pistols, Kenta Nakagomie and Yuta Sumiyoshi from the Sado Island-based Taiko Performing Arts Ensemble “Kodo” and the DJ/Composer Mars89 will provide the soundtrack for the new film. The Campaign will last approximately five weeks, until 30th April at...
- 3/22/2021
- by Adriana Rosati
- AsianMoviePulse
Although “Chiwawa” was the film that truly cemented the artfulness of his slightly disorienting, filled with (neon) colors and music, sexually charged style, it is interesting to examine the path Ken Ninomiya followed to reach that level, with his previous movie providing a great opportunity.
The story revolves around Aki Oria, a young girl who came to Tokyo ten years ago to become an actress, but eventually ended up staying in a circus of sorts, having a relationship with Kaito, the young man who introduced her, and acting as the magician’s assistant, with her role being pretending to be hypnotized. Eventually, she manages to land a part after a successful audition, even becoming a star, before a scandal takes a significant toll to her reputation. Is that the reality though? And who is this clown-like figure she calls Butch that seems to always be with her?...
The story revolves around Aki Oria, a young girl who came to Tokyo ten years ago to become an actress, but eventually ended up staying in a circus of sorts, having a relationship with Kaito, the young man who introduced her, and acting as the magician’s assistant, with her role being pretending to be hypnotized. Eventually, she manages to land a part after a successful audition, even becoming a star, before a scandal takes a significant toll to her reputation. Is that the reality though? And who is this clown-like figure she calls Butch that seems to always be with her?...
- 2/18/2021
- by Panos Kotzathanasis
- AsianMoviePulse
In the latest years, Toshiaki Toyoda has also embarked on an exploration of experimental cinema, mostly revolving around the connection of image and music, with films like “The Planetist” and “The Day of Destruction” being testament to the fact. “Shiver” continues in this path, with a music-video like approach that follows the rules of Ettō, is a new type of music video streaming program, rooted in local cultures, that enables artists to travel around Japan, while doing research and passing on their insights, while aiming to spread awareness of the music, culture, and local lifestyles that have formed them. In this particular case, Toyoda has shot the collaboration between the emerging contemporary musician Koshiro Hino and the Sado Island-based Taiko Performing Arts Ensemble “Kodo”, in a movie that was entirely recorded at the rehearsal hall in Kodo village and Sado Island.
Essentially a series of vignettes that...
Essentially a series of vignettes that...
- 2/9/2021
- by Panos Kotzathanasis
- AsianMoviePulse
Toshiaki Toyoda seems to be experiencing one of his most prolific periods, with his recent arrest, the concept of the Olympic Games in Tokyo and the pandemic functioning as a great source of inspiration for him. Namely, since 2018, Toyoda has shot “The Miracle of Crybaby Shotan“, “Planetist”, “Wolf’s Calling” and now “The Day of Destruction“.
On the occasion the latter screening at Camera Japan, we speak with him about the parade he managed to organize in Tokyo amidst the pandemic, the rage exhibited in the film, working with Gezan and Seppuku Pistols on the music, the great cast he managed to amass, guerrilla filmmaking, and other topics.
On July 23, you had some of the actors parade through the streets of Tokyo, eventually reaching a stage where Gezan performed. What was your purpose? Were the crew and particularly Kiyohiko Shibukawa ok with this and what was the reaction of the people in the streets?...
On the occasion the latter screening at Camera Japan, we speak with him about the parade he managed to organize in Tokyo amidst the pandemic, the rage exhibited in the film, working with Gezan and Seppuku Pistols on the music, the great cast he managed to amass, guerrilla filmmaking, and other topics.
On July 23, you had some of the actors parade through the streets of Tokyo, eventually reaching a stage where Gezan performed. What was your purpose? Were the crew and particularly Kiyohiko Shibukawa ok with this and what was the reaction of the people in the streets?...
- 10/2/2020
- by Panos Kotzathanasis
- AsianMoviePulse
Toshiaki Toyoda is an angry man. Angry for the “treatment” he experienced at the hands of the police for the second time, angry about the greed resulting from the upcoming (?) Tokyo Olympic games, angry at capitalism, and angry at the government for its policies regarding the pandemic. All this anger is channeled in “Days of Destruction” and eventually is turned into an audiovisual rage that fills the screen on multiple occasions. Having premiered on a 24-hour screening window at Japan Cuts on July 24, date the Olympics would have started, and with a performance that had the protagonists of the movie marching through the streets of Tokyo, eventually reaching a venue where Seppuku Pistols and Gezan performed, the film probably had the ideal promotion, given the circumstances, and the result does not disappoint at all.
The Day of Destruction is screening at Camera Japan
The narrative of the film is somewhat confusing,...
The Day of Destruction is screening at Camera Japan
The narrative of the film is somewhat confusing,...
- 9/23/2020
- by Panos Kotzathanasis
- AsianMoviePulse
As we have also started to deal with Asian music in Asian Movie Pulse lately, a list that features movie soundtracks was a must. In the entries that follow, we have collected 50 films’ scores that have stayed in our minds and have made us happy, sad, or simply to enjoy ourselves while listening to them. From anime to musicals, from cult to art-house and from dramas to comedies, here is a list with 50 works that define the movies they were included at least as much as their visuals.
*Some movies never had their soundtracks released but we felt that the songs included deserve a mention here. By clicking on the titles you can read our reviews of the films, by clicking on the song titles you can listen the tracks from YouTube.
1. 9 Souls
Dip create intense background music that follows rock and alternative paths, with each of the tracks pointing...
*Some movies never had their soundtracks released but we felt that the songs included deserve a mention here. By clicking on the titles you can read our reviews of the films, by clicking on the song titles you can listen the tracks from YouTube.
1. 9 Souls
Dip create intense background music that follows rock and alternative paths, with each of the tracks pointing...
- 8/25/2020
- by AMP Group
- AsianMoviePulse
In April 2019, director Toshiaki Toyoda (“Blue Spring” 2001) was arrested for unlawful possession of a handgun. It turned out that the weapon was a familial keepsake and he was released without charge. Based on this experience he produced a 17 minutes period drama called “Wolf’s Calling.”
Wolf’s Calling is screening at Japan Cuts 2020:
A girl finds an old handgun in her attic and the symbolic object conjures a mystical scene of samurai gathering within the moss-grown location of Kasosan Shrine in Tochigi Prefecture.
Produced outside the committee system and with his own money, “Wolf’s Calling” stars a familiar cast for a Toyoda movie. Kiyohiko Shibukawa (“9 Souls” 2003) and Ryuhei Matsuda are accompanied by international known actor Tadanobu Asano (“Ichi the Killer” 2001) in a supporting role. Since it is a self-financed project, “Wolf’s Calling” might be a hint to a future Japanese film industry outside the production system of the big studios.
Wolf’s Calling is screening at Japan Cuts 2020:
A girl finds an old handgun in her attic and the symbolic object conjures a mystical scene of samurai gathering within the moss-grown location of Kasosan Shrine in Tochigi Prefecture.
Produced outside the committee system and with his own money, “Wolf’s Calling” stars a familiar cast for a Toyoda movie. Kiyohiko Shibukawa (“9 Souls” 2003) and Ryuhei Matsuda are accompanied by international known actor Tadanobu Asano (“Ichi the Killer” 2001) in a supporting role. Since it is a self-financed project, “Wolf’s Calling” might be a hint to a future Japanese film industry outside the production system of the big studios.
- 7/20/2020
- by Alexander Knoth
- AsianMoviePulse
Kana Yamada, founder of the Logic Theater company, adapts hew own stage play for her feature debut, in a film that deals with the lives of sexual workers in Japan.
“Life: Untitled” is screening at Japan Cuts 2020
For the most part, the story is presented through the eyes of Kano, a newcomer in the industry, who, after an episode involving her not succumbing to a client, ends up doing office work for a company that deals with sexual services. A number of women and men are members of the company. The younger man functions mostly as a driver and assistant, but one of the girls is head over heels for him, despite his continuous negativity towards her. The other man seems to be the older employee there, and has the role of the “enforcer”. He frequently has sex with one of the girls, Mahiru, a constantly smiling woman who is...
“Life: Untitled” is screening at Japan Cuts 2020
For the most part, the story is presented through the eyes of Kano, a newcomer in the industry, who, after an episode involving her not succumbing to a client, ends up doing office work for a company that deals with sexual services. A number of women and men are members of the company. The younger man functions mostly as a driver and assistant, but one of the girls is head over heels for him, despite his continuous negativity towards her. The other man seems to be the older employee there, and has the role of the “enforcer”. He frequently has sex with one of the girls, Mahiru, a constantly smiling woman who is...
- 7/18/2020
- by Panos Kotzathanasis
- AsianMoviePulse
History may repeat itself, but not all heroes do. Merited for both their subjects and aesthetics, “30 Great Asian Biopics” collates national freedom fighters, last emperors, and hidden figures within the grand fabric of the past. We’ve got war epics, martial arts struggles, and simple slice-of-life films alike for your viewing pleasure. Take up the chance to learn of some of Asia’s greatest historical figures in our list below!
A number of the productions included in the list are not Asian at all, but since their main subject was an Asian, we decided to include them.
1. Mongol
Having a Russian director (Bodrov) and a Japanese protagonists (Asano) in a movie about the Mongolian Genghis Khan does not sound like a great idea, but the Russian director really made it work, presenting a movie that focuses on realism, rather than impression. The particular movie was going to a part of...
A number of the productions included in the list are not Asian at all, but since their main subject was an Asian, we decided to include them.
1. Mongol
Having a Russian director (Bodrov) and a Japanese protagonists (Asano) in a movie about the Mongolian Genghis Khan does not sound like a great idea, but the Russian director really made it work, presenting a movie that focuses on realism, rather than impression. The particular movie was going to a part of...
- 6/19/2020
- by AMP Group
- AsianMoviePulse
When someone talks about the Japanese movie industry in the 00s, inevitably the discussion goes towards anime, which, in the specific decade, accounted for 60% of the local film production. With films like Miyazaki’s “Spirited Away” and the rest of Studio Ghibli’s productions, along with masterpieces from Satoshi Kon, Mamoru Oshii, Katsuhiro Otomo and other great filmmakers, there is no wonder why the 00s were considered “Japanese Cinema’s Second Golden Age”, particularly for the penetration of local films in cinemas around the world.
However, anime were not the only story Japanese cinema had to tell in this decade. Yojiro Takita also won an Oscar, Shinji Aoyama and Naomi Kawase won at Cannes, Hirokazu Koreeda continued his successful festival run, Yoji Yamada made an exceptional trilogy of samurai films, Shunji Iwai directed one of the most critically acclaimed film of the decade, Kinji Fukasaku released his last film and Takeshi Kitano his most successful.
However, anime were not the only story Japanese cinema had to tell in this decade. Yojiro Takita also won an Oscar, Shinji Aoyama and Naomi Kawase won at Cannes, Hirokazu Koreeda continued his successful festival run, Yoji Yamada made an exceptional trilogy of samurai films, Shunji Iwai directed one of the most critically acclaimed film of the decade, Kinji Fukasaku released his last film and Takeshi Kitano his most successful.
- 5/10/2020
- by Panos Kotzathanasis
- AsianMoviePulse
Toshiaki Toyoda’s take on the family drama is based on the homonymous book by Mitsuyo Kakuta, and presents a rather extreme approach on the genre.
The Kyobashis appear to be a regular family of four: Eriko, the mother, works part-time in a restaurant, otherwise busying herself with housekeeping. Takashi, the father, is a regular salary man. The two kids, Mana and Ko, 16 and 14 years old respectively, are students. Lastly, Eriko’s mother, Sacchin, is hospitalized due to lung cancer, but refuses to have an operation.
What makes the family special, though, is that they have agreed, following an initiative of Etsuko’s, not to have any secrets and always be sincere with each other. Presumably, this results into constant awkward situations, like a discussion during dinner, of how each child was conceived and a celebration for Mana’s first period. Seemingly, the family copes with this tactic,...
The Kyobashis appear to be a regular family of four: Eriko, the mother, works part-time in a restaurant, otherwise busying herself with housekeeping. Takashi, the father, is a regular salary man. The two kids, Mana and Ko, 16 and 14 years old respectively, are students. Lastly, Eriko’s mother, Sacchin, is hospitalized due to lung cancer, but refuses to have an operation.
What makes the family special, though, is that they have agreed, following an initiative of Etsuko’s, not to have any secrets and always be sincere with each other. Presumably, this results into constant awkward situations, like a discussion during dinner, of how each child was conceived and a celebration for Mana’s first period. Seemingly, the family copes with this tactic,...
- 1/5/2020
- by Panos Kotzathanasis
- AsianMoviePulse
Japanese prosecutors in the rape case against Hirofumi Arai have asked for a five-year prison sentence for the actor. They made the request was made at a public hearing Wednesday in the Tokyo District Court.
Arai has pleaded innocent to charges that he sexually assaulted a woman sent to his residence from a massage service on July 1, 2018.
In its statement to the court, the prosecution contended that the victim was in “extreme physical and emotional distress” and that Arai’s payment of money after the encounter indicated “his full recognition that the woman was opposed to his desire.”
In his testimony, Arai has denied that the woman resisted his advances or that he used threats or violence.
Japanese courts have very high conviction rates. The verdict will be announced Dec. 2.
Born Kyung-Sik Park in Hirosaki, in Japan’s Aomori Prefecture, in 1979, Arai is a third-generation ethnic Korean. After debuting in “Go,...
Arai has pleaded innocent to charges that he sexually assaulted a woman sent to his residence from a massage service on July 1, 2018.
In its statement to the court, the prosecution contended that the victim was in “extreme physical and emotional distress” and that Arai’s payment of money after the encounter indicated “his full recognition that the woman was opposed to his desire.”
In his testimony, Arai has denied that the woman resisted his advances or that he used threats or violence.
Japanese courts have very high conviction rates. The verdict will be announced Dec. 2.
Born Kyung-Sik Park in Hirosaki, in Japan’s Aomori Prefecture, in 1979, Arai is a third-generation ethnic Korean. After debuting in “Go,...
- 10/24/2019
- by Mark Schilling
- Variety Film + TV
Japanese director Toshiaki Toyoda , has completed production on his most recent project “Wolf’s Calling”. The dramatic period piece, stars a familiar cast for a Toyoda production in Kiyohiko Shubuka, and Ryuhei Matsuda. In addition, international star Tadanobu Asano also plays a supporting role.
The short film premiered last week will be released on September 20th. A teaser for the production has been made available and can be viewed below.
We recently got a chance to interview the fan favorite director, which can be read here.
The short film premiered last week will be released on September 20th. A teaser for the production has been made available and can be viewed below.
We recently got a chance to interview the fan favorite director, which can be read here.
- 9/21/2019
- by Adam Symchuk
- AsianMoviePulse
Japanese filmmaker Toshiaki Toyoda has been making the news lately. Sadly, not with any of his films, but with being falsely arrested for the possession of a firearm. Since this has not been the first time Toyoda has come into contact with Japanese authorities, it also significantly slowed down the release of his latest project “The Planetist”, a documentary about the Ogasawara Islands, beautiful islands which can only be accessed via ship.
We sat down with the director to talk to him about his films “The Miracle of Crybaby Shottan”, which is screening at Nippon Connection, and “The Planetist” but also about his latest experiences with the Japanese authorities.
“The Miracle of Crybaby Shottan” is screening at
Nippon Connection
I would like to start the interview with a question about your recent arrest. However, you do not have to answer if you do not want to.. What happened? Since this...
We sat down with the director to talk to him about his films “The Miracle of Crybaby Shottan”, which is screening at Nippon Connection, and “The Planetist” but also about his latest experiences with the Japanese authorities.
“The Miracle of Crybaby Shottan” is screening at
Nippon Connection
I would like to start the interview with a question about your recent arrest. However, you do not have to answer if you do not want to.. What happened? Since this...
- 9/19/2019
- by Rouven Linnarz
- AsianMoviePulse
North America’s largest festival of contemporary Japanese cinema presents a diverse slate of 42 films, with over 20 guest filmmakers and talent in person for daily post-screening Q&As, including Cut Above awardee Shinya Tsukamoto.
Premiering 26 features and 16 short films, the summer festival offers a deep dive into one of the world’s most vital film cultures with a diverse selection across its Feature Slate, Classics: Rediscoveries and Restorations, Documentary Focus, Experimental Spotlight and Shorts Showcase sections. This year’s lineup features 19 first-time filmmakers and 14 female directors (the most in the festival’s history), including 10 International Premieres, 16 North American Premieres, 4 U.S. Premieres, 4 East Coast Premieres and 6 New York Premieres. In addition, over 20 guest filmmakers and talent from Japan will join the festival to participate in post-screening Q&As and parties.
“This 13th edition of Japan Cuts provides testament to the continued vitality of contemporary Japanese cinema with a wide array...
Premiering 26 features and 16 short films, the summer festival offers a deep dive into one of the world’s most vital film cultures with a diverse selection across its Feature Slate, Classics: Rediscoveries and Restorations, Documentary Focus, Experimental Spotlight and Shorts Showcase sections. This year’s lineup features 19 first-time filmmakers and 14 female directors (the most in the festival’s history), including 10 International Premieres, 16 North American Premieres, 4 U.S. Premieres, 4 East Coast Premieres and 6 New York Premieres. In addition, over 20 guest filmmakers and talent from Japan will join the festival to participate in post-screening Q&As and parties.
“This 13th edition of Japan Cuts provides testament to the continued vitality of contemporary Japanese cinema with a wide array...
- 6/14/2019
- by Adriana Rosati
- AsianMoviePulse
Kiyohiko Shibukawa started his career as a model under the name “Kee” but eventually changed it in 2006. Since 1998 he has worked with many directors like Takashi Miike (“Ichi the Killer”), Sion Sono (“Love & Peace”) and Toshiaki Toyoda. In this year’s Nippon Connection the actor is featured in five productions.
We sat down with the actor to talk about his career, the changes in the Japanese film industry and his work on Toyoda’s latest film “The Planetist”.
Since 1998, when you started acting, you have played in more than 120 titles in TV and cinema, with 15 of them only in 2018. Don’t you ever feel exhausted, and how difficult is jumping from one role to another?
Of course, keeping up this pace is kind of exhausting in a way. With regards to last year, the amount of productions happened through sheer coincidence because some of them were shot long before and...
We sat down with the actor to talk about his career, the changes in the Japanese film industry and his work on Toyoda’s latest film “The Planetist”.
Since 1998, when you started acting, you have played in more than 120 titles in TV and cinema, with 15 of them only in 2018. Don’t you ever feel exhausted, and how difficult is jumping from one role to another?
Of course, keeping up this pace is kind of exhausting in a way. With regards to last year, the amount of productions happened through sheer coincidence because some of them were shot long before and...
- 6/3/2019
- by Rouven Linnarz
- AsianMoviePulse
In the midst of all the controversy, it is good to remember that Toshiaki Toyoda is still a great filmmaker. And what better way to do just that than a biopic about Shoji Segawa, a Japanese professional shogi player who changed the rules of the game (Toyoda was also a shogi player until he reached 17), starring the protagonist of Toyoda’s biggest film achievements, Ryuhei Matsuda.
“The Miracle of Crybaby Shottan” is screening at
Nippon Connection
The Actual Story
Segawa was a 3-dan ranked apprentice shogi professional, but was unable to gain promotion to 4-dan professional before turning 26 in 1996. Thus, per the association’s rules, he was required to withdraw from its apprentice school. Segawa continued to play shogi as an amateur and won a number of national amateur tournaments which allowed him to qualify for entry into professional shogi tournaments. Segawa’s record of 17 wins and 7 losses against professionals...
“The Miracle of Crybaby Shottan” is screening at
Nippon Connection
The Actual Story
Segawa was a 3-dan ranked apprentice shogi professional, but was unable to gain promotion to 4-dan professional before turning 26 in 1996. Thus, per the association’s rules, he was required to withdraw from its apprentice school. Segawa continued to play shogi as an amateur and won a number of national amateur tournaments which allowed him to qualify for entry into professional shogi tournaments. Segawa’s record of 17 wins and 7 losses against professionals...
- 6/1/2019
- by Panos Kotzathanasis
- AsianMoviePulse
Now entering its 13th year, Japan Cuts: Festival of New Japanese Film returns to present the best new movies made in and around Japan and the filmmakers and performers who made them, all appearing in New York for the first time, with many North American and International Premieres. Set for July 19 to 28, the 2019 edition will feature nearly 30 feature films, ranging from box-office smashes to breakout indie debuts, and includes spotlights on documentary cinema, experimental animation, short films and recent restorations and rediscoveries of classic Japanese favorites.
The full schedule will be released on June 11, when tickets go on sale to Japan Society members. Tickets will go on sale to the public on June 18.
This year, the festival’s Centerpiece Presentation on Wednesday, July 24 is the East Coast Premiere of Killing, a subversive samurai drama from influential cult director Shinya Tsukamoto that the filmmaker has described as a “scream” in response...
The full schedule will be released on June 11, when tickets go on sale to Japan Society members. Tickets will go on sale to the public on June 18.
This year, the festival’s Centerpiece Presentation on Wednesday, July 24 is the East Coast Premiere of Killing, a subversive samurai drama from influential cult director Shinya Tsukamoto that the filmmaker has described as a “scream” in response...
- 5/18/2019
- by Don Anelli
- AsianMoviePulse
“Male bonding starts with pissing together.”
Japanese director Toshiaki Toyoda has remained largely unknown to filmgoers due to the reclusive nature of the man himself as well as the fact that unlike directors such as Takashi Miike, his output has been scarce over the last years. After his arrest and trial on drug-related charges Toyoda was blacklisted for quite some time and was able to release his next picture four years after “Hanging Garden” (2005). Even with being blacklisted, interviews with the filmmaker are quite rare as well as recent releases of his films.
In one of the few interviews the director gave during the Terracotta Far East Film Festival 2012 he talks about the inspiration of what might just be his most popular film, “9 Souls” (2003). The film is based on an escaping case which took place in the USA and the idea of breaking out of prison, any kind of prison...
Japanese director Toshiaki Toyoda has remained largely unknown to filmgoers due to the reclusive nature of the man himself as well as the fact that unlike directors such as Takashi Miike, his output has been scarce over the last years. After his arrest and trial on drug-related charges Toyoda was blacklisted for quite some time and was able to release his next picture four years after “Hanging Garden” (2005). Even with being blacklisted, interviews with the filmmaker are quite rare as well as recent releases of his films.
In one of the few interviews the director gave during the Terracotta Far East Film Festival 2012 he talks about the inspiration of what might just be his most popular film, “9 Souls” (2003). The film is based on an escaping case which took place in the USA and the idea of breaking out of prison, any kind of prison...
- 5/13/2019
- by Rouven Linnarz
- AsianMoviePulse
Now entering its 13th year, Japan Cuts: Festival of New Japanese Film returns to present the best new movies made in and around Japan and the filmmakers and performers who made them, all appearing in New York for the first time, with many North American and International Premieres. Set for July 19 to 28, the 2019 edition will feature nearly 30 feature films, ranging from box-office smashes to breakout indie debuts, and includes spotlights on documentary cinema, experimental animation, short films and recent restorations and rediscoveries of classic Japanese favorites.
The full schedule will be released on June 11, when tickets go on sale to Japan Society members. Tickets will go on sale to the public on June 18.
This year, the festival’s Centerpiece Presentation on Wednesday, July 24 is the East Coast Premiere of Killing, a subversive samurai drama from influential cult director Shinya Tsukamoto that the filmmaker has described as a “scream” in response...
The full schedule will be released on June 11, when tickets go on sale to Japan Society members. Tickets will go on sale to the public on June 18.
This year, the festival’s Centerpiece Presentation on Wednesday, July 24 is the East Coast Premiere of Killing, a subversive samurai drama from influential cult director Shinya Tsukamoto that the filmmaker has described as a “scream” in response...
- 5/3/2019
- by Don Anelli
- AsianMoviePulse
What started with “Pornostar“, continued in the best way possible in “Blue Spring”, with the concept of the guerilla/punk film finding its apogee here, in probably Toshiaki Toyoda’s best work to date.
The script of the film is based on a series of autobiographical short stories by the manga author Matsumoto Taiyo, and takes place in a rundown boys’ high school, which seems to be attended only by delinquents and lost causes. The protagonist, Kujo, becomes the leader of a seven-member gang of the school’s seniors, by winning a suicidal clapping game. Initially, he seems to cherish his role, punishing those who do not treat the rest of the gang members with respect, occasionally using a baseball bat to do so. However, after awhile he gets bored, a tendency that expands onto everything he does.
Aoki, a childhood friend of Kujo’s, becomes his right hand; nevertheless,...
The script of the film is based on a series of autobiographical short stories by the manga author Matsumoto Taiyo, and takes place in a rundown boys’ high school, which seems to be attended only by delinquents and lost causes. The protagonist, Kujo, becomes the leader of a seven-member gang of the school’s seniors, by winning a suicidal clapping game. Initially, he seems to cherish his role, punishing those who do not treat the rest of the gang members with respect, occasionally using a baseball bat to do so. However, after awhile he gets bored, a tendency that expands onto everything he does.
Aoki, a childhood friend of Kujo’s, becomes his right hand; nevertheless,...
- 4/1/2019
- by Panos Kotzathanasis
- AsianMoviePulse
Celebrity scandals are hardly unusual in Japan – the weekly tabloids found in every convenience store dig up new ones for every issue. But the March 12 arrest of musician-actor Pierre Taki for cocaine possession sent larger than usual shock waves through the local entertainment industry. Two weeks later, they are still reverberating.
A front man of the synthpop group Denki Groove since its 1989 start, the burly Taki (birth name: Masanori Taki) built a prospering acting career over two decades playing everything from heavies to comic foils. His portrayal of a menacing death-row convict in Kazuya Shiraishi’s 2013 crime drama “The Devil’s Path” earned him a Japan Academy best supporting actor nomination. After that breakthrough he was in demand for both TV dramas and films.
But following his arrest, Taki has become essentially a non-person, as the industry rushes frantically to erase him from current and future content, while wiping his...
A front man of the synthpop group Denki Groove since its 1989 start, the burly Taki (birth name: Masanori Taki) built a prospering acting career over two decades playing everything from heavies to comic foils. His portrayal of a menacing death-row convict in Kazuya Shiraishi’s 2013 crime drama “The Devil’s Path” earned him a Japan Academy best supporting actor nomination. After that breakthrough he was in demand for both TV dramas and films.
But following his arrest, Taki has become essentially a non-person, as the industry rushes frantically to erase him from current and future content, while wiping his...
- 3/29/2019
- by Mark Schilling
- Variety Film + TV
The Tiffcom market, a sales event adjacent to the Tokyo International Film Festival, always includes the latest film launches from Japan. This year the selection is especially varied and rich. Arranged by sales company, highlights include:
Kadokawa
“Chiwawa”
Scripted and directed by Ken Ninomiya, this mystery about a 20-year-old Instagram star who ends up dead in Tokyo Bay, is based on a popular comic. It features a cast that includes the internationally known Chiaki Kuriyama (“Kill Bill”) and Tadanobu Asano (“The Third Murder”).
“Hard-Core”
Festival favorite, Nobuhiro Yamashita has adapted a cult hit comic about a pair of misfits who are inseparable friends. They encounter a retro-looking robot with astonishing powers, and together embark on a bizarre hunt for long-buried treasure.
“The Antique: Secret of the Old Books”
Yukiko Mishima, director of the acclaimed 2017 drama “Dear Etranger,” has returned with a literary mystery, based on En Mikami’s best-selling novel.
Kadokawa
“Chiwawa”
Scripted and directed by Ken Ninomiya, this mystery about a 20-year-old Instagram star who ends up dead in Tokyo Bay, is based on a popular comic. It features a cast that includes the internationally known Chiaki Kuriyama (“Kill Bill”) and Tadanobu Asano (“The Third Murder”).
“Hard-Core”
Festival favorite, Nobuhiro Yamashita has adapted a cult hit comic about a pair of misfits who are inseparable friends. They encounter a retro-looking robot with astonishing powers, and together embark on a bizarre hunt for long-buried treasure.
“The Antique: Secret of the Old Books”
Yukiko Mishima, director of the acclaimed 2017 drama “Dear Etranger,” has returned with a literary mystery, based on En Mikami’s best-selling novel.
- 10/23/2018
- by Mark Schilling
- Variety Film + TV
Oahunov Nov 8-18, 2018
Kauainov Nov 15-18, 2018
Big Island & Maui Nov 29 -Dec 2, 2018
The 38th Hawaii International Film Festival is about to start and to continue the festival’s proud tradition of showcasing content and creatives from the Pacific, Asia and North America.
The festival this year features over 180 films, talks and events from 37 countries, with 47 Us, International and World Premieres across 32 sections. 2018 continues the tradition of programming a selection of critically-acclaimed and highly-anticipated films from Asia and around the world, while also giving a platform from emerging creative talents from across the Hawaii-Pacific region.
Outstanding films are accompanied by stars and filmmakers from around the world, connecting East and West through a dedication to discussion, diversity and creativity.
We have picked the Asian titles in the Programme and they are a lot!
Let’s have a look:
Shadow – Opening Night Film
China 2018 – Director: Zhang Yimou
50 First Kisses
Spotlight On Japan – Japan...
Kauainov Nov 15-18, 2018
Big Island & Maui Nov 29 -Dec 2, 2018
The 38th Hawaii International Film Festival is about to start and to continue the festival’s proud tradition of showcasing content and creatives from the Pacific, Asia and North America.
The festival this year features over 180 films, talks and events from 37 countries, with 47 Us, International and World Premieres across 32 sections. 2018 continues the tradition of programming a selection of critically-acclaimed and highly-anticipated films from Asia and around the world, while also giving a platform from emerging creative talents from across the Hawaii-Pacific region.
Outstanding films are accompanied by stars and filmmakers from around the world, connecting East and West through a dedication to discussion, diversity and creativity.
We have picked the Asian titles in the Programme and they are a lot!
Let’s have a look:
Shadow – Opening Night Film
China 2018 – Director: Zhang Yimou
50 First Kisses
Spotlight On Japan – Japan...
- 10/18/2018
- by Adriana Rosati
- AsianMoviePulse
Japanese director Toshiaki Toyoda is set to release his adaptation of the autobiographical novel by Shogi prodigy, Shoji Segawa. After the film “Hanging Garden”, this will be Toyoda’s second film adaptation from a notable work of literature. The film stars Ryuhei Matsuda who has held a lead role in several of Toyoda’s previous productions.
A trailer under the working title of “Nakimushi Shottan no Kiseki” has been released.
Synopsis
Shoji Segawa (Ryuhei Matsuda) was a quiet and inconspicuous boy, but, for the first time, he is recognized by people after winning the National Middle School Shogi Tournament. At the age of 26, his dream of becoming a professional shogi player collapses due to an age restriction. After he quits playing shogi, he becomes desperate. With the support of his peers, including Yuya Suzuki (Yojiro Noda), and his love of shogi, Shoji Segawa begins to play shogi again. A miracle happens to him.
A trailer under the working title of “Nakimushi Shottan no Kiseki” has been released.
Synopsis
Shoji Segawa (Ryuhei Matsuda) was a quiet and inconspicuous boy, but, for the first time, he is recognized by people after winning the National Middle School Shogi Tournament. At the age of 26, his dream of becoming a professional shogi player collapses due to an age restriction. After he quits playing shogi, he becomes desperate. With the support of his peers, including Yuya Suzuki (Yojiro Noda), and his love of shogi, Shoji Segawa begins to play shogi again. A miracle happens to him.
- 7/2/2018
- by Adam Symchuk
- AsianMoviePulse
After asking a number of artists that appear in our reviews and interviews, both in Amp and Asian Film Vault, to list their favorite movies of their country, we inaugurate a new column in Asian Movie Pulse, where we are going to present their selections.
The first “guest” of the column is no other than Toshiaki Toyoda, director of “Pornostar“, “Blue Spring”, “Hanging Garden” and “9 Souls” among others.
Here are his top ten Japanese films, in random order.
1. The Man Who Stole the Sun
A high school science teacher builds an atomic bomb and uses it to extort the nation, but cannot decide what he wants. Meanwhile, a determined cop is catching up to him, as is radiation poisoning.
2. Knock Out
A Japanese boxer stages a dramatic and dangerous comeback after suffering brain damage in the ring.
3. Woman in the Dunes
An entomologist on vacation is trapped...
The first “guest” of the column is no other than Toshiaki Toyoda, director of “Pornostar“, “Blue Spring”, “Hanging Garden” and “9 Souls” among others.
Here are his top ten Japanese films, in random order.
1. The Man Who Stole the Sun
A high school science teacher builds an atomic bomb and uses it to extort the nation, but cannot decide what he wants. Meanwhile, a determined cop is catching up to him, as is radiation poisoning.
2. Knock Out
A Japanese boxer stages a dramatic and dangerous comeback after suffering brain damage in the ring.
3. Woman in the Dunes
An entomologist on vacation is trapped...
- 5/3/2018
- by Panos Kotzathanasis
- AsianMoviePulse
Se Asian movies, at least as they are perceived in their whole by the majority of international audience, are known for a number of things: Horror, violence, Wong Kar Wai, Park Chan-wook and Takashi Miike (ok, I am just oversimplifying things here). So, for this list I decided to show another aspect of Asian movies, not so frequently mentioned or even considered for that matter, apart from the Bollywood movies that is. Without further ado, here are 12 great dancing scenes from Asian movies, with the lion’s share belonging to Wong Kar Wai, who has presented a number of astonishing sequences through the years.
1. Lai Yiu-fai and Ho Po-wing are dancing in a kitchen (Wong Kar Wai, Happy Together,1997, Hong Kong)
Tony Leung and Leslie Cheung are tangoing in the middle of a kitchen, with their love and adoration for each other becoming evident by the way they look at and lean on each other.
1. Lai Yiu-fai and Ho Po-wing are dancing in a kitchen (Wong Kar Wai, Happy Together,1997, Hong Kong)
Tony Leung and Leslie Cheung are tangoing in the middle of a kitchen, with their love and adoration for each other becoming evident by the way they look at and lean on each other.
- 3/3/2018
- by Panos Kotzathanasis
- AsianMoviePulse
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