An exquisite Japanese cinematic masterpiece at all levels—visual, aural, emotional, spiritual, awaits Eiga Sai fanatics this July featuring Departures, winner of the 81st Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 2009. The Eiga Sai opens on July 1 (Friday) at the Shang Cineplex Cinema 2, Shangri-La Plaza, EDSA, Mandaluyong City as a kick-off event of the month-long festivity. Departures takes a bizarre and unique subject with heartwarming scenes and outstanding acting performances by Masahiro Motoki, who played the role of Daigo Kobayashi, an aspiring cellist who eventually takes the job of an encoffinner, sending the deceased body off to final departure with dignity. He coveted the Best Actor awards (32nd Japan Academy Prize in 2008 and Kinema Junpo Awards in 2009) for his role in the film complimenting the brilliant mind of its acclaimed director Yojiro Takita. The film festival officially reels off with an invitational screening and special performance of Mr. Renato Lucas, the principal cellist of the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra together with pianist—Ms. Naomi Sison, at 7:00 P.M. at the Atrium Plaza, Shangri-la Plaza. "Eiga Sai," which literally means 'film festival' now on its 13th year is organized by the Japan Foundation, Manila together with the Embassy of Japan, The Shangri-La Plaza Corporation, UP Film Institute and supported by Lyric Piano, and ClickTheCity.com. Completing this year's roster of exciting films to be featured are The Summit: Chronicle of Stones; The Chef of South Polar; One Million Yen Girl; Your Friend; Yunagi City, Sakura Country; Summer Days with Coo; Climber's High; Feel the Wind; and Villon's Wife. All films will be shown with English subtitles. Admission is free. Screening venues are at the Shang Cineplex Cinema 4 (July 1 to 10), Gaisano Grand Citimall, Davao (July 22 to 24), Ayala Center Cinema 4, Cebu (August 2 to 7) and UP Film Institute (August 17 to 20). For detailed screening schedules and inquiries, please access the Japan Foundation, Manila website: www.jfmo.org.ph or call the JFM telephone numbers (+632) 811-6155 to 58. # # # |