egburley Review of Uzumasa Limelight

Uzumasa Limelight (2014)

Brilliant Film About the Japanese Samurai Filmmaking Tradition

[10/10 · 23 March 2015]

Uzumasa Limelight traces the dying Samurai filmmaking tradition of Japan. Akin to American Western movies, in the 50's and 60's Samurai films provided the touchstone for Japanese viewers to the romanticized past of Japan. The film focuses on Kamiyama (played by veteran actor Seizo Fukumoto, known to Western audiences as the silent Samurai guarding Tom Cruze in "The Last Samurai"), a kirareyaku - the actor whose main job is to be killed by the lead star. The story tells with real passion the dying of the tradition, while giving hope as the protagonist hands off the tradition to the next generation through charismatic newcomer Chirhiro Yamamoto, playing Satsuki. Very accessible, and a touching story without sappiness.