The Ceremony

A quarter-century of Japan’s modern history is refracted through the gatherings of one family for ceremonies in Nagisa Oshima’s brilliant polemic in colour and ‘Scope.

A quarter-century of controversial post-war history is reflected in the occasional ceremonial gatherings of the Sakurada family for Buddhist festivals, weddings and, of course, funerals. Oshima skilfully balances his political subtext with powerful dynastic drama as grotesque humour merges with intense sadness: see, for example, the amazing episode of the brideless wedding, set in 1961. A blazing polemic in colour and 'Scope.

Directed by:

Nagisa Oshima

Cast:

Kenzo Kawarazaki, Atsuo Nakamura, Akiko Koyama

Country:

Japan

Year:

1971

Running time:

121min