Mishima: A Life in Four Chapters

views updated

Mishima: A Life in Four Chapters ★★★ 1985 (R)

Somewhat detached account and indulgent portrayal of the narcissistic Japanese author (and actor, filmmaker, and militarist) alternates between stylized interpretations of his books and a straightforward account of his life. Culminates in a pseudo-military operation that, in turn, resulted in Mishima's ritualistic suicide. A U.S./Japanese production. Innovative design by Eiko Ishioka. In Japanese with English subtitles. 121m/C VHS, DVD . Ken Ogata, Kenji Sawada, Yasosuke Bando; D: Paul Schrader; W: Leonard Schrader, Paul Schrader; C: John Bailey; M: Philip Glass; Nar: Roy Scheider.