Masaki Kobayashi

The Profile

Masaki Kobayashi (1916–1996) was a Japanese film director known for The Human Condition trilogy, Harakiri (Seppuku) and Kwaidan.

His films are noted for moral seriousness and social critique, often addressing hypocrisy and the pressures of authority.

The review praises Seppuku (Harakiri, 1962) as a majestic, solemn film and a fierce critique of hypocrisy and the bushido code. It highlights slow, stately narration, exceptional black-and-white cinematography, and a violent, cathartic finale. The reviewer strongly recommends viewing the film in the original language with subtitles.