Himiko ©Toho Co., ltd
NFAJ

Himiko

Masahiro Shinoda

  • 1974
  • Japan
  • Drama / Fantasy
  • 1h40mn
  • Original version with English subtitles
  • Color
In ancient legendary times, Himiko, the Shaman Sun Queen, falls in love with her half brother, Takehiko, who himself falls for the Earth people’s chief’s daughter. These forbidden loves imperil the balance of kingdoms.
Shinoda directs an old shamanic legend like an antique tragedy, using theatrical distancing when he films indoor scenes, and paying tribute to Pasolini’s conception of mythology, present in Oedipus Rex, for action shots in arid or forest landscapes. Shinoda’s formal choices never stifle the lyricism of his animism or his solar poetry. Tatsumi Hijikata and his Buto actors contribute to these aesthetics at the crossroads of modernity and paganism. Magical and primitive, epic and esoteric, Himiko is rich with unforgettable visions.

Screenings

08/09 • 15h15 • Screen 300
Screening in partnership with the National Film Archive of Japan

Booking

09/09 • 17h00 • Screen 300
Screening in partnership with the National Film Archive of Japan

Booking

Credits

  • With : Shima Iwashita, Masao Kusakari, Rie Yokoyama, Chôichirô Kawarasaki, Kenzô Kawarasaki
  • Screenplay : Masahiro Shinoda, Taeko Tomioka
  • Photography : Tatsuo Suzuki
  • Editing : Sachiko Yamaji
  • Music by : Tôru Takemitsu
  • Production : Kiyoshi Iwashita, Masao Katô, Kinshirô Kuzui, Masahiro Shinoda