金閣寺 (Kinkakuji Temple), 1976 by Yôichi Takabayashi

[yogiyamada]

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Kinkakuji, is a Japanese movie directed by Yôichi Takabayashi, released in 1976. The movie is based on the novel "The Temple of the Golden Pavilion" by Yukio Mishima and portrays the story of a young man named Mizoguchi, who becomes obsessed with destroying the Golden Pavilion, a famous temple in Kyoto, Japan. The movie's cinematography is stunning, capturing the beauty and serenity of the temple and its surroundings. The camera work and lighting create a dreamlike atmosphere, with the temple and its golden facade often glowing against a backdrop of lush greenery and misty skies.


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The performances by the cast are also excellent, with Rentarô Mikuni delivering a powerful portrayal of Mizoguchi's descent into madness and obsession. The supporting cast also shines, with their nuanced performances adding depth to the story.

The movie explores complex themes such as beauty, obsession, and the destructive nature of desire. It delves into the psyche of Mizoguchi, a character consumed by his own sense of inadequacy and his desire to destroy something that he believes is too beautiful for this world. The story is dark and thought-provoking, raising questions about the nature of art and the human condition.



Overall, "Kinkakuji, 1976" is a visually stunning and thematically rich movie that captures the essence of Mishima's novel. It is highly recommended for fans of Japanese cinema, and anyone interested in exploring the darker aspects of human nature.