Cinema Guild

[artfilmfan]

Thank you.

I have the unsubbed Japanese DVD; but this CG release is very tempting.

[Michael Kerpan]

The long-ago unsubbed Japanese DVD was really surprisingly quite low-quality. The version that was on the Criterion Channel looked MUCH better.

[artfilmfan]

The unsubbed Japanese DVD that I have is the one from long ago. You are making it harder for me to resist the temptation to buy this CG release, Michael.

[Michael Kerpan]

As I recall it was released by some really minor label. The scenes from the dream climax did not look awful, but the more ordinary life stuff looked pretty grotty.

[artfilmfan]

I watched the unsubbed DVD probably only once, on a 20-in CRT TV years ago. It didn’t look too bad on such a small-screen TV. But I remember I liked the movie a lot. This was around the time, or soon after, my discovery of the films of Ozu and Naruse. So, for it to stand out like that, it must be a very good film. That was my opinion of this movie then. Michael, your subtle persuasion has been fairly effective so far. I think I’ll revisit the DVD, with the low expectation on the picture quality on a large-screen TV, and let the movie itself do the final persuasion.

By the way, I’ve always felt that this movie/film would look amazing on a high definition TV, especially if it has been restored.

[Finch]

I put an order in too for the Moving UHD. Crazy that CG are offering it for 50% off during the pre-order period. I hope it sells strongly enough for them to consider releasing The Friends.

[Michael Kerpan]

I have been shilling for this film for 25 years or so. I am so glad to see it get a legit release at last. Now if only we get more Somai -- and then lots of Jun Ichikawa.

[artfilmfan]

I have been shilling for this film for 25 years or so. I am so glad to see it get a legit release at last. Now if only we get more Somai -- and then lots of Jun Ichikawa.

And perhaps Naomi Kawase’ Shara.

When I saw Jun Ichikawa’s name, I (incorrectly) thought of April Story which I found my DVD of the other day while looking for a DVD of Linda, Linda, Linda. I’v just looked and found out that he directed Tokyo Marigold which is the only film of his that I’ve seen. What other films of his do you recommend?

[Calvin]

Jun Ichikawa is long overdue some appraisal and wider distribution. I wouldn't be surprised to see the new restoration of Tony Takitani get a US release but I think it's going to need the Japanese to restore and re-release Bu-Su or Tsugumi before anything else happens