Japanese film enthusiasts and the general public can look forward to another round of exquisite Japanese cinematic event this August featuring 9 highly-acclaimed Japanese master pieces that portray slices of Japanese culture. Following its successful screenings held at  the Shang Cineplex Cinema 4, Shangri-La Plaza (July 1 to 10), Gaisano Grand Citimall, Davao (July 22-24), and Ayala Center, Cebu (August 2-7), the Eigasai now goes to the UP Film Institute for its final leg, which will run from August 17 to 20.

Included in the forthcoming screening is the much-admired film, “The Summit: A Chronicle of Stones” by Director and screenwriter Daisaku Kimura. It tells the story of 2 teams of mountaineers out to reach the peak of Mount Tsurugidake in 1907, in order to complete a map. Mt. Tsurugidake is located in Tateyama mountain range in the Northern Alps in Toyama Prefecture which stands 2999m above sea level, and at that time is renowned as a “Mountain of Death” for its inaccessibility. The film illustrates both the touching and humbling story of mountaineers who risk their lives in trying to survive the most extreme weather conditions just to achieve their goals while the film audience is treated to a wonderful and stunning journey to a place most of us would never reach.

In the film, “Feel the Wind” by Sumio Omori, the movie creatively uplifts and inspire viewers to engage in relay marathon/running as a routine sports which helps develop inner strength and gives joy by feeling the wind while developing an incredible level of fitness. The dynamics behind each player of the team to achieve one’s personal goal is to remind viewers how priceless one’s determination and the bond formed through their training that they can accomplish a seemingly impossible dream.

Equally interesting is the film, “The Chef of South Polar” by Toshikazu Nishigaya, which is a heart-warming comedy based on the famous essay written by a chef who went to the South Pole in 1997.  The films depicts with humor the hilarious and touching story about a meal and the South Pole experienced by a research team of 8 men dispatched at Dome Fuji Station in Antarctica during their 18 month tour of duty and their hardships while waiting for it to be over.

The Eigasai 2011 is hosted by the Japan Foundation, Manila, in cooperation with the Embassy of Japan, The Shangri-La Plaza Corporation, UP Film Institute and supported by Lyric Piano, ClickTheCity.com, Shang Cineplex, Nissin Yakisoba and NET 25 TV.

ADMISSION IS FREE. For detailed screening schedules and inquiries, please access the Japan Foundation, Manila website: www.jfmo.org.ph or call the JFM at telephone numbers (+632) 811-6155 to 58.

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