Now regarded as one of the greatest films of all time, Tokyo Story took years to be appreciated for the masterpiece it is. Set in post-WWII Japan, the film explores the implications of Western capitalist values, the breakdown of traditional Japanese family structures, and the place of children in a changed social and political world. Film Critic David Thompson once asked if has ever been a film more moving than Tokyo Story, and the film continues to emotionally impact new audiences.   

In Sight and Sound’s 2022 Greatest Films of All Time list, Tokyo Story made the #4 spot, a ranking that it has never procured before. It will be screened at The Capitol with Hayao Miyazaki’s My Neighbour Totoro, making this Japanese double feature night one to remember. Both films have been lauded by critics worldwide as classics, yet neither are household names. Hear from RMIT’s animation research expert Dr Ruth Richards and co-curator of the Melbourne Cinematheque Associate Professor Adrian Danks, as they introduce these films and give context to first time viewers and fans alike.

Films will be screened in Japanese, with English subtitles.

Please note, tickets for the films may be purchased separately, or as a two-film package.

6.00pm: My Neighbour Totoro

Language: Japanese | English subtitles

Japan | 1988| 86 mins

8.00pm: Tokyo Story

Language: Japanese | English subtitles

Japan | 1953| 136 mins

These screening are presented in partnership with RMIT Culture and RMIT Cinema Studies.