The Calgary Cinematheque is delighted to present a Kinugasa double feature. Enjoy A Page of Madness (1926) at 7 pm & Gate of Hell (1953) at 9 pm on January 6, 2022. Get your ticket for the discounted price of $18!
Part of our Japanese Theatre Series.
Directed by Teinosuke Kinugasa | Japan | 70 mins
One of the most unique films of the Japanese silent era. Created by an avant-garde movement of artists known as the Shinkankakuha (School of New Perceptions), which rejected naturalistic styles. Highly influenced by Noh theatre, including a finale utilizing traditional Noh masks, A Page of Madness is commonly interpreted as an early horror film. We say "commonly interpreted" because with its avant-garde editing, potentially non-linear narrative, and lack of title cards, the film's story is left open to audience interpretation. During its original theatrical run, the film would have been accompanied by a narrator called a benshi, who would have given an interpretation of the events onscreen based on the film's written scenario. Set in an asylum in contemporary Japan, the film's plot includes dream sequences and fantasies that blur the line between fantasy and reality, calling the sanity of its characters into question. Thought to be a lost film for decades, it was rediscovered by the director himself in 1971, buried in his garden shed.
-Written by Ben Rowe
Please read our COVID-19 Guidelines and Info page before planning your visit!
Community Partner: Calgary Japanese Community Association
The Calgary Japanese Community Association (CJCA) is an organization of volunteers, clubs and partnerships that promote Japanese culture in Calgary and the surrounding areas. Although they’ve drastically reduced the amount of programs in their centre during covid, they still actively support a wide variety of activities. The CJCA office is based in the Calgary Nikkei Cultural & Senior Centre located at 2236-29 Street SW in Calgary. Stop by for a visit or to learn more about the organization.
In the spirit of respect, reciprocity and truth, we honour and acknowledge that this screening takes place on Moh’kinsstis and the traditional Treaty 7 territory, as well as the oral practices of the Blackfoot confederacy: Siksika, Kainai, Piikani as well as the Îyâxe Nakoda and Tsuut’ina nations. We acknowledge that this territory is home to the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 3 within the historical Northwest Métis homeland. Finally, we acknowledge all Nations, Indigenous and non, who live, work and play, as well as help steward this land, honour and celebrate this territory.