We're screening HIGH AND LOW at 7pm this Friday, Nov. 21 at the Owens Art Gallery @owensartgallery.bsky.social. Programmer @patrickallaby.bsky.social will be introducing the film.

Kurosawa was a master of composition throughout his career, but HIGH AND LOW might be his greatest achievement.

Once compositionally dominant, the rich industrialist Gondo is eventually marginalized and relegated to the shadows after experiencing some setbacks.

Shifts in relative power and status are also realized through visual composition.

The chauffeur’s comparatively low status is indicated by his placement outside the sphere of activity (far right), even as it is his son’s life that is at stake.

Thematically, they transform the screen into configurations of power and status along both class and gender lines.

Dramatically, they emphasize the various conflicts and tensions between the characters.

These intricate compositions serve both dramatic and thematic purposes.

Rigorously organized wide-screen compositions are a hallmark of HIGH AND LOW.

The Sackville Cinematheque is screening HARAKIRI this Friday, March 28, at the Owens Art Gallery @owensartgallery.bsky.social.

Renowned director Masaki Kobayashi's elegant and austere style perfectly suits the material. Meanwhile, Japanese star Tatsuya Nakadai delivers a searing and unforgettable performance. Awarded the Special Jury prize by the prestigious Cannes Film Festival, HARAKIRI is riveting cinema.

Former samurai Hanshirō Tsugumo requests to commit seppuku, or harakiri, within the manor of a local feudal lord, using the opportunity to expose the hypocrisies and injustices of a corrupt class system.