The Ceremony
Dir: Oshima Nagisa
Japan, 1971, 123 minsmins, 35mm
Cast: Kawarasaki Kenzo, Kaku Atsuko, Sato Kei
One of Oshima’s most ambitious works about sexuality and mortality, challenging Japanese military aggression. After WWII, Masuo and his mother return from Manchuria to the Sakurada family estate. As the heir to the family line, he is placed under the authority of his oppressive grandfather. Surrounded by death, disappointment and libidinal paralysis at multiple weddings and funerals, he reaches the depth of despair when being forced to go through a brideless marriage. The Ceremony is a brutal critique of postwar Japan that resembles the incestuous family which looks prosperous on the outside, yet rotten from within.
#1 in 1971 Kinema Junpo ’s Top 10, and Best Director, Best Actor, Best Screenplay of the Year
Hong Kong Arts Centre Louis Koo Cinema (Venue)
Chinese Subtitles
Category III
Remarks
1. Screenings at Broadway Cinematheque are available at Broadway Cinematheque and website of Broadway Circuit only. For related ticketing information, please refer to www.cinema.com.hk.
2. Screenings at Emperor Cinemas iSQUARE, Emperor Cinemas Times Square and PREMIERE Elements : tickets are available at URBTIX till 5pm one day before respective screening, after which tickets will be available only at the box office of the respective venue on the day of screening, subject to availability.
3. Screenings at HK Arts Centre and M+ Cinema : tickets are available at URBTIX outlets until one hour before the screening, after which tickets are available at URBTIX website and mobile app. On-the-day tickets will also be available at the Self-service Ticketing Kiosk of the respective venue, subject to availability.
4. Unless otherwise stated, all films (except English-speaking films) are subtitled in English.
5. While it is the HKIFFS’s policy to secure the best possible print of the original version for all its screenings, the HKIFFS appreciates its patrons’ understanding on occasions when less than perfect screening copies are screened.
