Giants and Toys (a.k.a. The Build-Up)(Kyojin to gangu)

A delectably wicked satire in splashy colours and kitsch knick-knacks, Masumura’s iconoclastic modernist drama takes aim at the absurdity of capitalist mentality amidst Japan’s post-war economic miracle. In the heat of competition among three caramel corporations, a lowerclass girl who is reshaped into a publicity campaign icon preys on her overnight sensation, while the advertising executive hero salvaging his humanity falls victim to intrigues of corporate espionage. A piercing look at the loss of values that comes with political and social reorientation, as bushido spirit gives way to profit over ideals.

#10 in Kinema Junpo’s Top 10                                                      

27/11 (Sat): Seminar with William Lau and Geoffrey Wong