Mishima: A Life in Four Chapters

He lived by the pen, died by the sword. The self-transformation of Mishima Yukio, Japan’s acclaimed and controversial author, is vividly portrayed in Paul Schrader’s visually stunning and unorthodox biopic. Revolving around his last day in 1970 when he committed public seppuku, the film deftly intersperses the monochromic chapters of his life with emblematic portions of his novels, played out as stylised chamber-theatrical pieces in intense colours. Accentuated by Philip Glass’ sensitive yet powerful score and Ishioka Eiko’s exquisite production design, this complex and fascinating portrait from a Gaijin’s perspective is the most befitting tribute to the son of Japan – a man who created works of art, and who himself became a work of art.

Cannes Film Festival: Best Artistic Contribution

15/12 (Sun): Film talk with Long Tin