Goodbye Great Mind

I’m in a crappy mood, so I’m going to stay away from me and talk about someone else who deserves attention.

Shoei Imamura passed away. He was a Japaneese filmmaker who has never really received much credit in the U.S. I’d put him up there with Kurosawa, but in a different light. He was all about getting into the Japanese mind and scooping out some interesting stuff for us to look at.



He has a few films available on DVD and video here and I’d appreciate you checking one or two out. You’ll be surprised at how good they are.

The Pornographers – great film, but not as dirty as you are thinking it will be… pervs.

The Eel- One of my all time favorite films. It stars Koji Yakusho from Shall We Dance and several Kiyoshi Kurosawa films.

Warm Water Under A Red Bridge- Again staring Yakusho and involves a woman’s sexual fluids reinvigorating the fishing. Seriously, She squirts gallons and the rivers start teeming with fish again. A metaphor? Hmmm.

The Insect Woman – Not available on DVD or tape, so keep you’re eyes open at revival houses. This one focuses on a chunky prostitute. She’s not very nice to say the least.

A Man Vanishes – Not Available. A documentary about a woman whose husband has disappeared and her search for him. Along the way she falls in love with the director of the documentary. But is everything what it seems?

Black Rain – I own the DVD, but will admit, I’ve never watched it. I picked it up for a couple of bucks and now it’s worth some cash because it’s out of print. Now I have a reason.

Dr. Akagi – Good stuff, but I only saw it once and have never taken the time to revisit it..

Ballad of Narayama – He made this film twice, once in the 50’s and once in the early 80’s. Another one I haven’t seen, but have heard nothing but great things about it.

Anyway, for my money, Mr. Imamura will be missed. Very few Americans know or even care. He’s a blip on the radar and for most he’s not even on the radar.

Rest in piece Mr. Imamura, you worked hard, made some spectacular films. Sleep comfortably knowing there are those of us who care.