Josef von Sternberg’s rarely seen last film reaches the height of stylization: he re-creates the Pacific island setting in a Japanese studio out of paper and cellophane, employing Kabuki-trained actors with no knowledge of English. Based on a factual incident, the film tells of a dozen Japanese merchant seamen shipwrecked in 1944 on Anatahan, where they find a man and a woman. By the time they are persuaded that World War II is over, in 1951, five men have died in fights over the woman. Von Sternberg’s baroque vision is fully realized in the film he himself considered his best.
Part of film series
Screenings from this program
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Treasures from the Harvard Film Archive: ...
The Little Match Girl
Directed by Jean Renoir, 1928
Live piano accompaniment by Peter FreisingerScreening on Film
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Treasures from the Harvard Film Archive: ...
Nana
Directed by Jean Renoir, 1926
Live piano accompaniment by Peter FreisingerLive Musical AccompanimentScreening on Film
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Treasures from the Harvard Film Archive: ...
Trailers, Trailers, Trailers
Introduced by Film Conservator Julie BuckScreening on Film
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Treasures from the Harvard Film Archive: ...
Sweet Smell of Success
Directed by Alexander Mackendrick, 1957
Screening on Film