6 Reasons Why “Kagemusha” Is Akira Kurosawa’s Late Masterpiece

“Kagemusha” is one of the best films Akira Kurosawa ever shot and is considered one of the definite masterpieces of world cinema. However, its production was one of the most difficult accomplishments in the master’s filmography. Initially, the film was not considered financially viable, and it took the influence of both George Lucas and Francis […]

6 Reasons Why “Audition” is a Modern Classic of Horror Cinema

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“Audition” is quite a historic production (at least for its cult following), since it was the film that established Takashi Miike as a prominent member of the category and Eihi Shiina as a “priestess” of the grotesque. Here are five reasons that justify the title. Please note that the article contains many spoilers.   1. […]

7 Reasons Why “Battle Royale” is a Cult Masterpiece

Kinji Fukasaku’s last film was a production worthy of his lifetime achievements in the field, since “Battle Royale” caused much controversy; it was banned outright or deliberately excluded from distribution in several countries, but at the same time, it also influenced a great number of movies and many filmmakers, including Quentin Tarantino and “The Hunger […]

6 Reasons Why “Oldboy” is a Modern Masterpiece of South Korean Cinema

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This second installment of Park Chan-wook’s “Vengeance Trilogy” is the film that turned global interest toward Korean cinema, one that’s a true masterpiece of South Korean cinema, and one that is still discussed for its unique aesthetics and elaborate technique. “Oldboy” screened at festivals all over the world winning tens of awards, with the Grand […]

The 10 Most Distinct Traits of Hayao Miyazaki’s Cinema

Hayao Miyazaki is one of the most renowned figures in the world of anime, and animation in general. In his capacities as director, producer, scriptwriter, animator, author, manga artist, and co-owner of Studio Ghibli, he has shaped the field, as he brought anime to the attention of the world audience as something more than a […]