Ryuichi Sakamoto: Coda

Synopsis

'A portrait of an artist that's nearly as powerful and necessary as the artist himself.'

One of the most important artistic minds of our era, Ryuichi Sakamoto has had a prolific career spanning over four decades, from techno-pop star, to actor, to Oscar-winning film composer. A constant innovator, Mr Sakamoto’s music has evolved in lockstep with his evolution as an artist and thinker.

Following the Fukushima nuclear disaster, Mr Sakamoto became an iconic figure in Japan’s social movement against nuclear power and an unofficial spokesperson for the fear, anger and anxiety of the Japanese people. As Mr Sakamoto returns to music following his battle with throat cancer, his haunting awareness of his own life crisis, as well as that of his country and the whole world, leads to a creation of a resounding new masterpiece.

Granted unprecedented access to Mr Sakamoto's life and work, Stephen Nomura Schible's sensitive and illuminating film stands not only as a portrait of an extraordinary career, but as one of the most intimate examinations of the creative process ever committed to film.

Ryuichi Sakamoto: Coda is a gentle and reflective portrait of both the artist and the man.