Celebrating Two Legendary Japanese Directors: Tadao Yamanaka and Yasushi Kato at Jinbouchou Theater

A Celebration of Masterful Cinema: Tadao Yamanaka and Yasushi Kato

Jinbouchou Theater, renowned as a classic cinema in the heart of Japan's book district, is hosting a special screening event titled "Tadao Yamanaka and Yasushi Kato," starting from June 20, 2026. This program commemorates the 110th anniversary of director Yasushi Kato's birth and pays homage to both Kato and the legendary director Tadao Yamanaka, who remains an iconic figure in Japanese film history.

Kato (1916-1985), a prominent filmmaker during the golden age of Toei studios, is celebrated for his contributions to the genre, particularly in Jidaigeki (period dramas) and Yakuza films starring notable actors such as Kinnosuke Nakamura and Ken Takakura. His unique vision, characterized by unadorned performances and innovative techniques like low-angle shots and long takes, has left a lasting impact on audiences and film enthusiasts alike.

Tadao Yamanaka (1909-1938) is often remembered as a charismatic genius who tragically passed away at the young age of 28 during the war. He is a celebrated figure whose films, although few, are immensely influential. Kato, who began his journey in the film industry under the mentorship of his uncle Yamanaka, continued to carry on his legacy throughout his prolific career following Yamanaka's untimely death.

This special program features a curated selection of Kato’s most significant works alongside all surviving films directed by Yamanaka. With a total of 12 films showcased during this period, it provides a rare opportunity for cinema lovers to experience the breadth of creativity and storytelling prowess from these two legends of Japanese cinema.

Schedule of Films

Tadao Yamanaka's Works:

1. Ninjou Kamifuuusen (People's Emotional Paper Balloon) - 1937 - Starring Chojuro Kawarasaki, Kan'emon Nakamura, and Noboru Kiritachi.
2. Tange Sazen Yawara no Uta (The Tale of Tange Sazen and the Mystic Treasure) - 1935 - Based on the original work by Fumitaro Hayashi, featuring Denjiro Okochi, Kiyozo, and Kunitaro Sawamura.
3. Kawachi Yama Sōshun (Kawachi Mountain Sword Master) - 1936 - Starring Chojuro Kawarasaki, Kan'emon Nakamura, and Setsuko Hara.

Yasushi Kato's Works:

1. Kaze to Onna to Tabi Karasu (Wind, Woman, and the Traveling Crow) - 1958 - Featuring Kinnosuke Nakamura, Rentaro Mikuni, and Satomi Okuma.
2. Kaze no Musha (Warrior of the Wind) - 1964 - Based on the work of Ryotaro Shiba, starring Kojiro Hakamada, Hiroko Sakuramachi, and Yoko Nogiwa.
3. Hi Botan Boto: Hanamatsuri (Crimson Peony Gambles on the Hanafuda) - 1969 - Based on the work by Hisanori Ishimoto, featuring Junko Fuji, Ken Takakura, and Tomimaru Wakayama.
4. Mabuta no Haha (Mother of Eyelids) - 1962 - Based on the work of Nobuhiro Hasegawa, starring Kinnosuke Nakamura, Hiroki Matsukata, and Michiyo Kogure.
5. Tange Sazen Karakuri no Maki (The Tale of Tange Sazen: Mechanical Scroll) - 1962 - Based on a piece by Fumitaro Hayashi, featuring Yutaro Otomo, Naho Kubo, and Hiroko Sakuramachi.
6. Sanada Fuunroku (Chronicles of Sanada) - 1963 - Based on a story by Yoshiyuki Fukuda, starring Kinnosuke Nakamura, Misa Watanabe, and Jerry Fujio.
7. Kutsukake Tokijiro (Kutsukake's Vagabond Life) - 1966 - Based on Hasegawa's narrative featuring Kinnosuke Nakamura, Junko Ikeuchi, and Kiyoshi Atsumi.
8. Bone made to Shave (Everything Edible) - 1966 - Featuring Hiroko Sakuramachi, Naho Kubo, and Isao Natsuyagi.
9. Honoo no Gotoku (Like Flames) - 1981 - Based on a work by Koichi Iihashi starring Bunta Sugawara, Mitsuko Baisho, and Tamako Nakamura.

This retrospective is a captivating exploration of the cinematic legacy these directors left behind. Join us at Jinbouchou Theater, located in the Chiyoda ward of Tokyo, as we celebrate these pioneers from June 20 to July 10. Admission fees are set at 1,400 yen for general tickets, 1,200 yen for seniors, and 1,000 yen for students.

For ticketing and further details, visit the Jinbouchou Theater homepage and check out the special screening page for more on the films included in this spectacular event at Jinbouchou Theater Features.

Don’t miss this rare chance to delve into the works of two of Japan's most revered filmmakers in a historic setting filled with cinematic nostalgia.