Focus on Ryuichi Sakamoto

Lights down, volume up – join us in the cinema as we pay homage to the beautiful legacy of innovator and heartbreaker Ryuichi Sakamoto.

For some, it began with Yellow Magic Orchestra – the Japanese electronic music pioneers who cut through international markets with their debut self-titled album influencing the course of electronic music forever.

For others, it began with Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence – his first film role opposite David Bowie coupled with his debut film score spawning hit singles around the world.

And for many, it began with The Last Emperor, his Academy Award-winning film score setting forth a unique career in music composition for film. Ryuichi Sakamoto was a star, and one of the few film score composers with an onscreen presence to boot.

In March of 2023, Ryuichi Sakamoto sadly passed away. Knowing it to be his final performance, he performed one last time. Fittingly, for a musical career so entwined with cinema, the main audience member was a camera, helmed by Sakamoto's filmmaker son Neo Sora. The final film Ryuichi Sakamoto | Opus is a gift to audiences and a moving, final farewell.

But now it's our time to say farewell. Join us in the cinema as we celebrate the career of one of the greats with a beautiful selection of his films, video art and music videos with fine performances both offscreen and on.

– Reece Goodwin, Curator (Film & TV)