Cinema
The Human Condition
人間の條件
Masaki Kobayashi · 1959
Synopsis
Kaji, a pacifist and socialist, marries Michiko and, to escape military service, takes her to a large mine in Manchuria, where he becomes head of a work site of Chinese prisoners. He introduces more humane practices there and tries with his wife to improve the lot of the workers, according to the Pacific Film Archive in Berkeley, which sets him against the foremen, the mine administration and the military police, who sabotage his efforts.
Context
The three films were released on 15 January 1959, 20 November 1959 and 28 January 1961, and together run to nearly nine and a half hours. They adapt an autobiographical novel by Gomikawa Junpei in six parts. The production is due to an independent company, the Ninjin Club, and Shōchiku, reluctant, handled the distribution. The role of Kaji was Nakadai Tatsuya's first major role.
Who it is for
Three films in black and white, to be watched over several sessions: the whole runs to more than nine hours.
Prizes and reception
San Giorgio Prize at the Venice Film Festival in 1960, and the Mainichi Prize for Best Direction for the director.