The Master of Kabuki at the cinema

Directed by Sang-il Lee, a Japanese filmmaker of Korean origin, The Master of Kabuki is an adaptation of a novel by Shuichi Yoshida. This epic tale about kabuki, a Japanese theatrical art form, attracted more than 11 million viewers in Japan.

In 1964, Kikuo, the son of a yakuza boss, is spotted by Hanjiro, a famous kabuki actor. He becomes his student, alongside the actor's son. In principle, tradition dictates that it is the heir to the family who takes over the title of actor. The film follows the learning of this art over several decades.

The film was chosen by Japan to represent the country at the Oscars.