The Canada-Japan Society is proud to present at its upcoming February Movie Night the acclaimed drama, "The Choice of Hercules" (突入せよ！あさま山荘事件).
(NOTE: while our Movie Nights usually take place on the 3rd Friday of each month, this screening takes place on Friday, February 10...)
This picturesque 2002 film from director Masata Harada gives an account of the Karuizawa Hostage Incident, which took place in the winter of 1972 in Nagano, Japan.
Radicals from the Japanese "Red Army" terrorist group have taken a local woman hostage in this resort town, and Police Officer Atsuyuki Sassa, played by veteran actor Koji Yakusho (13 Assassins, Shall We Dance?, Unagi), is sent to diffuse the situation. While Sassa and his force face a daunting set of challenges, including winter weather and local power struggles, perhaps their greatest challenge comes in the form of public opinion, as the whole event is broadcast live on Japanese national television.
Director Harada (Bounce Ko Gals, Inugami, Kamikaze Taxi) tells this historical story with deft humour, impressive cinematography, and "bite your nails" suspense. Unlike other films about this famous incident, "The Choice of Hercules" is portrayed solely from the viewpoint of the police force. The film was nominated for 9 Japanese Academy Awards in 2003, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor.
As always at CJS Movie Night, the screening will be followed by our post-party at Everest on Queen Street West, which is a great opportunity to meet new people and talk about the film over great food and drink.
We hope to see you there!!
THE CHOICE OF HERCULES
Friday, February 10th, 2012
National Film Board Theatre
150 John Street (at Richmond)
7:00 pm Start
CJS Members $5, Non-Members $10
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