Description
Of all Japanese filmmakers, Akira Kurosawa (1910-1998) is certainly the best known in the Western world. That’s because of the artistic value of his films, not because he catered to Western culture, despite what some say. After all, his first film, released in 1943, centered around judo, and some of his most admired films are built around samurai characters, including his “breakout” film Rashomon. The universal appeal comes from the tremendous variety in his output, and the intense, colorful, and deeply philosophical nature of his work. Yes, he knows Western film techniques, but he adapts them to his own purposes. We will see some striking scenes from his films, including those that are never seen in the West. Furthermore, we will watch a scene directed by Kurosawa and compare it with the same scene as done by other Japanese and Western directors, using very rare clips. It makes for a fascinating comparison. If you are a film buff–and who isn’t?–don’t miss this exciting presentation!
Dr. Lewis Porter is a celebrated and Grammy- nominated jazz pianist who has performed many times for Lexington Community Ed with noted stars. As an award-winning author and long-time professor at Tufts, Brandeis, and Rutgers, he is in demand everywhere for his entertaining and enlightening lectures. He is the author of John Coltrane: His Life and Music, the only Coltrane biography endorsed by John’s son, saxophonist Ravi Coltrane, as well as by Jimmy Heath, Dan Morgenstern, and many others. He is also the editor of the John Coltrane Reference, a big “day by day” listing.
