Brisbane Asia Pacific Film Festival (BAPFF) today unveiled a special Japanese retrospective as part of the festival program, which will hit Brisbane cinemas from 23 November – 4 December.
The retrospective pays tribute to Setsuko Hara, who passed away in 2015. The shining star of the golden era of post-war Japanese cinema, Setsuko Hara is best remembered for her performance in master filmmaker Yasujiro Ozu’s Tokyo Story, a recognised masterpiece frequently regarded as one of the greatest films of all time.
The retrospective also honours the formidable performances by two other celebrated Japanese actresses, Hideko Takamine and Kinuyo Tanaka, who both contributed tremendously to the triumph of classic Japanese cinema.
Brisbane Lord Mayor Graham Quirk said 2016 would mark the third year for the Brisbane Asia Pacific Film Festival.
“BAPFF is a growing annual film event that reflects our changing community and our strengthened ties with the Asia Pacific,” he said.
“Each year, the festival gets bigger and better and this is no exception.
“Our Asia Pacific region is responsible for half of the world’s film output and many of those selected to screen have collected awards from festivals like Cannes, Berlin and Toronto.
“This year, I’m excited to see Japan, one of Brisbane’s closest trading and tourism partners, represented in the festival program.”
Brisbane Asia Pacific Film Festival Chairman Michael Hawkins said the retrospective would appeal to lovers of classic cinema.
“This part of the program really celebrates Japan’s Golden Age,” he said.
“These actresses collaborated extensively with the world’s most iconic directors and are appreciated for their subdued, yet determined presence in Japan’s greatest dramas.
“Brisbane Asia Pacific Film Festival is a fantastic opportunity to see remarkable stories as diverse as the 4.5 billion people who call the region home.
“I look forward to welcoming new and returning cinema lovers in 2016.”
