It was in late 2013 that Osaka-based comedy giant Yoshimoto Kogyo announced that they were to re-launch the Kyoto Movie Festival as Kyoto International Film and Art Festival last year, with a theme of theme of “Movie, Art, and Everything Else.” Chaired by Japanese film director Sadao Nakajima, 80, the first edition saw actor Koji Yakusho take home the most prestigious honor, the Toshiro Mifune Award named after the great Japanese actor.This year KIFF is back for a four day run from October 15 to 18 in the old Japanese capital, and offers visitors a blend of film treats, and artworks that both seek to promote Japanese culture, and highlight international works. Here are our top five not to miss.1. “Hee”Kaori Momoi might be called the Meryl Streep of Japanese cinema. Respected by all, the veteran actress has been seen in international works like “Memoirs of a Geisha” and “Sukiyaki Western Django” alongside Quentin Tarantino, but has never been afraid to test herself in roles in obscure independent films all around the world. “Hee” is based on the novel “He and She” by novelist Fuminori Nakamura and tells the take of a mentally disturbed woman obsessed with fire. Momoi serves as scriptwriter, director and lead actress for the first time.2. “Chambara: The Art of Japanese Swordplay”Director Sadao Nakajima may be 81, but he still has his finger on the pulse. Chanbara (sword fighting) was at the heart of old period dramas in Japan, but these days its seeing a resurgence in theaters and modern TV shows, attracting a new audience, including young women. This documentary talk to critics, actors and choreographers for a behind-the-scenes look at the Japanese art of swordplay.3. “Girls” “Light Pool” “Ymene” – Takagi Masakatsu Musician and filmmaker Takagi Masakatsu, whose works have become showcases for Apple products in Japan, present a selection of works at the Kyoto Aquarium, alongside two other artists. The works are made from garbage collected from the dry riverbed of the Yodogawa River in Osaka, and will be on display for the month of October.4. Strandbeest – Theo JansenDutch artist Theo Jansen has become world-renowned for creating what he calls “Strandbeest,” often huge mechanisms that have been called wind-waling examples of artificial life. His “Animaris Siamesis,” one of his largest creations, will be on display in from of the Kyoto City Offices, with a daily performance of its abilities.5. “Memories”Director Kenichi Oguri’s film will open KIFF this year, marking 70 years since the end of World War II. The film features survivors including 95-year-old former Japanese sailor Kiyokazu Tsuchida,who fought on Peleliu Island in 1944, and 80-year-old singer and actor Akihiro Maruyama. The film examines how the Emperor and Empress of Japan visited the Republic of Palau to remember those who did not return after a 72-day battle.For screening and exhibition details, see: http://kiff.kyoto.jp/en/
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