Experience Live Silent Film Performances at Jinbocho Theater
The Jinbocho Theater, located in the heart of the literary district in Tokyo, is set to welcome film enthusiasts this Golden Week with its annual program titled "The Age of Silent Film Masters 2025." Kicking off on May 5, the event will showcase the timeless classic "御誂次郎吉格子 (Oatsuraejiro Kichikoushi)"—a masterpiece directed by renowned filmmaker Daisuke Ito and featuring the legendary actor Denjiro Okouchi.
To enhance the cinematic experience, all screenings will include live musical accompaniment, creating a vibrant atmosphere that transports audiences back to the silent film era. Among the highlights will be a special performance with narration by the talented and award-winning benshi (silent film narrator) Riko Sakamoto, providing insightful commentary to the film on May 5. Following that, there will be additional screenings accompanied by live piano and saxophone music on May 6 and May 10, ensuring a diverse range of auditory experiences.
In "御誂次郎吉格子 (Oatsuraejiro Kichikoushi)," audiences can witness the fascinating story of Jirokichi as he navigates his adventures in a historical Japan. The film encapsulates a favorable blend of action and narrative, as Jirokichi finds solace with his love interest, Osen, all while facing the challenges of helping a less fortunate girl named Okino, which eventually leads to complications that reveal his whereabouts to his pursuers. This intricate plot developed under the masterful direction of Ito is sure to captivate audiences both old and new.
The festivities at Jinbocho Theater promise to be more than just film screenings; they celebrate the intersection of cinema, live music, and storytelling that was crucial during the silent film era. The theater's ambiance, coupled with the essence of live performance, creates a unique viewing experience that cannot be replicated in contemporary cinema.
Visitors to Jaiinbocho during this event can indulge in their love for literature and cinema while exploring the bookstore-laden streets of the district. It's the perfect way to complement the quaint charm of the area and dive deep into the historical roots of Japanese film culture.
Event Details:
- - Title: The Age of Silent Film Masters 2025: A Focus on Daisuke Ito
- - Film: Oatsuraejiro Kichikoushi
- - Screening Dates:
- May 5 (Mon, Public Holiday), 13:15 – Live narration & performance (Benshi: Riko Sakamoto; Piano: Eri Kanzaki)
- May 6 (Tue, Public Holiday), 13:15 – Live performance (Piano: Eri Kanzaki)
- May 10 (Sat), 19:00 – Live performance (Saxophone: Rie Takeuchi)
- - Venue: Jinbocho Theater
- - Location: 1-23 Kanda Jinbocho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
- - Ticket Prices:
- Live narration & performance: 2200 yen
- Live performance: 2000 yen
For more information, visit
Jinbocho Theater.
As an extension to these events, a special screening focusing on thrilling mysteries featuring authors Seicho Matsumoto and Seishi Yokomizo will be concurrently held, presenting cinema lovers with an opportunity to experience a wide array of genres and narratives, further invigorating the cultural offerings of Jinbocho during this festive season.