70 Years After His Death: Film Director Kenzō Mizoguchi
The National Film Archive hosts a 70‑year‑anniversary exhibition honoring director Kenzō Mizoguchi.Summary
In 2026, the National Film Archive will hold its first exhibition commemorating the 70th anniversary of the death of film director Kenzō Mizoguchi (1898‑1956). Born in Tokyo, Mizoguchi initially pursued painting before joining the Nikkatsu Kōshō studio in 1920 and debuting as a director with "Love Revives the Day" in 1923. After relocating to Kyoto following the Great Kanto Earthquake, he produced acclaimed works such as "Naniwa Sad Song" and "Gion Sisters," and later directed landmark films like "The Story of the Remaining Chrysanthemums" and the monumental "The Tale of the Tokugawa Loyal Retainers." Post‑war, his films "Women of the Night" and adaptations of classic literature earned international awards at the Venice Film Festival. The exhibition will showcase his life, filmmaking techniques, and global influence, featuring archival materials from key collaborators such as cinematographer Kazuo Miyagawa, art director Hiromichi Mizutani, and composer Fumio Hayasaka to analyze his uncompromising cinematic artistry.
(Source：美術展ナビ)