Shiro Amakusa, the Christian Rebel (1962)
"Amakusa shiro tokisada" (original title)

In the year 1637 in Shimabara of Tokugawa-era Japan, oppressed peasant Christians revolt against the shogunate with the aid of a charismatic Christian rebel leader Shiro Amakusa.

Director:

Nagisa Ôshima

Writers:

Toshirô Ishidô, Nagisa Ôshima

Stars:

Hashizo Okawa, Ryûtarô Ôtomo, Satomi Oka

Cast

Credited cast:
Hashizo Okawa	...	Amakusa Shiro Tokisada
Ryûtarô Ôtomo	...	Shinbei Oka
Satomi Oka	...	Sakura, Shinbei's wife
Rentarô Mikuni	...	Uemonsaku
Rest of cast listed alphabetically:
Minoru Chiaki	...	Tanaka
Tokubei Hanazawa	...	Yomiemon
Mikijirô Hira	...	Katsuie Matsukura
Yoshi Katô	...	Yamazenuemon's father
Chôichirô Kawarazaki	...	Tamezo
Sue Mitobe	...	Maki
Kikue Môri	...	Maruta
Takamaru Sasaki	...	Jinbei
Kei Satô	...	Taga Mondo

Storyline

In the year 1637 in Shimabara of Tokugawa-era Japan, oppressed peasant Christians revolt against the shogunate with the aid of a charismatic Christian rebel leader Shiro Amakusa.

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Plot Keywords:

christian | revolt | shogunate | japan | box office flop | 

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Genres:

Drama | History | War

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Details

Country:

Japan

Language:

Japanese

Release Date:

21 March 1962 (Japan)

Also Known As:

The Christian Revolt

Company Credits

Production Co:

Toei Company

Technical Specs

Runtime:

100 min

Sound Mix:

Mono

Color:

Black and White

Aspect Ratio:

2.35 : 1

User Reviews

Early Oshima

Nagisha Oshima directed this atypical 1962 film covering Christian persecution in Japan - and the response of the tragic hero, Shiro Amakusa. From the standpoint of filmmaking, the shots are mostly static (some several minutes, minimal camera movement), with simple black and white photography. The film shows particular care for the beleaguered Christians, who are forced into poverty (and worse) for their religion.

Obviously, the subject matter doesn't place for humor; the narrative dark and reflective, showing little hope for the characters. Oshima has always excelled at provocative filmmaking, provoking more thought than filmmaking fireworks.