The British film institute has launched a new project titled ‘BFI Japan 2021: 100 Years of Japanese Cinema’. They are showing Japanese films spanning the past 100 years from October to December. The BFI cinema is certainly different from a regular cinema. Located in South Bank, the cinema feels and treats its guests as if they are attending the theatre. With a library, bar, and restaurant located in the building, it provides a substantial day out for all visitors. The BFI also offers a 25 and under scheme for young cinephiles looking to watch a range of films at only the price of £3. 

 

A particularly popular viewing during this celebration of 100 years of Japanese cinema was Seven Samurai. This film was released in 1954 and was directed by the critically acclaimed filmmaker Akira Kurosawa. The running time is two hours and thirty minutes, which contains an interval right at the climax of the film. This leaves the audience departing the cinema excitedly discussing what might occur in the second act. Described as a “master class in visual storytelling, biblical in its influence and a mandatory watch” by spectator George Webb. The film is surprisingly funny, with comedic relief throughout provoking the spectators to laugh out loud in their seats. It contains outlandish archetypal characters and beautiful storytelling, Seven Samurai engages the audience and actively encourages them to immerse themselves into the story of good and evil. Moreover, with satirical comedy that has stood the test of time, emotive performances, and unexpected twists, this film definitely leaves the audience excited to discover more of what Japanese cinema has to offer.