HANA TO HEBI (2003)

[Miles Wood]

Anyone seen Takashi Ishii's adaptation of the Oniroku Dan story (previously
made into a film by Masaru Konuma, though I believe the 1974 version strayed
somewhat from it's literary source) yet? It was released on DVD by Toei a
few days ago of which I hope to be getting a copy soon, but some screenings
with star, director and author in attendance are slated for next month in
Tokyo. I'm slightly curious as to why these were scheduled AFTER the DVD's
release?

Anyone know any further info about the film (which has a rt of only 45 mins)
such as whether it was shot on DV or 35mm? Ishii may be my favourite
director currently working in Japan (unlikely a feeling shared by too many
others here, I know) and I'm wondering why such a gap since FREEZE ME,
admittedly not his best worrk but one which at least as far as international
sales are concerned must've been considered a success?

On a realted note, for those in Tokyo there is an event called Femme Fatale
at Club Spiral this Friday and which sees start Aya Sugimoto doing some sort
of performance (singing?) and Ishii in attendance.

Miles