Yasuzo Masumura (1924-1986) was an eclectic and innovative Japanese director. He initially studied law at Tokyo University, but his studies were interrupted when he was drafted into the army in the later stages of the Asia-Pacific War. He was repatriated in the late 40s and started working at the Daiei studio while finishing his degree in philosophy. After his graduation, he obtained a scholarship to study at the Centro Sperimentale di Cinematografia in Rome. Matsumura returned to Japan in the early 1950s and worked at the Daiei studio as assistant director for Kenji Mizoguchi, Kon Ichikawa and Daisuke Ito, before directing his own first film, Kisses, in 1957. For most of his career, he remained at Daiei and directed over 50 films in a variety of genres, including adaptations of literary works by Junichiro Tanizaki, Genjiro Yoshida and Yasunari Kawabata. Among his most celebrated works are Afraid to Die (1960) starring Yukio Mishima, Manji (1964), Seisaku's Wife (1965), Irezumi (1966) Red Angel (1966) and Blind Beast (1969).

 

Do you love Japanese film classics, anime or contemporary cinema stories? Do you miss Japan and want to see it at least on screen? Would you like to learn and discuss about Japanese culture and society? The Japan Society Film Club is an online space to chat about films and Japan in an informal atmosphere. It take place on the first Wednesday of the month. We recommend a film to watch in advance and meet online to discuss. Films are often available online for free, to rent or with subscription, on DVD/Blu Ray or on BFI player. The event is open to all and we encourage participants to freely express their opinions and feelings about the films.

 

If you have any questions, please call The Japan Society office on 020 3075 1996 or email events@japansociety.org.uk.