Writer and critic Ann Billson introduces a striking American film about the controversial Japanese author. Mishima
A Life in Four Chapters starring
Ken Ogata.
Yukio Mishima was one of Japan's most complex figures. A playwright and novelist increasingly obsessed with Samurai ethics and militarism, Mishima made his life reflect his art. American director Paul Schrader intertwines dramatisations of Mishima's early life and of his works with the events of the day in November 1970 when
Mishima took over the Eastern Army headquarters in Tokyo to restore the glory of the Emperor.
Screenplay by PAUL SCHRADER and LEONARD SCHRADER
Produced by MATA YAMAMOTO and TOM LUDDY
Directed by PAUL SCHRADER
(In English and Japanese with English subtitles. First showing on British television).
Film Club presentation by DAVID THOMPSON
0 ALSO SHOWING: page 21