Kazuya Shiraishi's 'Le Joueur de go' Premieres, Showcasing Samurai Honor and Artistic Depth

The Edo-period drama blends samurai action, philosophical reflection, and refined visuals, marking a potential milestone for Shiraishi's international recognition.

• The film, set in Edo-period Japan, follows Yanagida, a ronin falsely accused of theft, on a journey to restore his honor while adhering to the samurai code of bushido.
• Early reviews praise the film's philosophical use of the game of go as a narrative metaphor and thematic core.
• Kazuya Shiraishi employs a refined visual style inspired by Stanley Kubrick's 'Barry Lyndon,' using natural light sources like candles and oil lamps for interior scenes.
• The narrative transitions from an introspective start to a suspenseful and violent second half, maintaining a delicate yet impactful aesthetic.
• 'Le Joueur de go' is positioned as a significant work in Shiraishi's career, potentially introducing his diverse filmography to a broader international audience.

3 Articles

L'Humanité Le Canard enchaîné Le Nouvel Obs