In Opus: Ryuichi Sakamoto, viewers are swept into a mesmerizing testament to the musical genius of the Japanese composer and recording artist, Ryuichi Sakamoto. A poignant document of Sakamoto’s final performance before his passing from cancer, the film transcends mere documentation, offering a profound exploration of his creative journey.
Directed by Neo Sora, Sakamoto’s son, the film captures the maestro’s final moments in a Japanese recording studio, where he performs for an intimate audience of one — himself. Against a backdrop of stark black-and-white cinematography, Sakamoto’s movements are captured with a haunting precision, every note reverberating with the echoes of his storied career.
With meticulous attention to detail, Sora delves into the emotional nuances of Sakamoto’s performances, capturing the raw beauty of his compositions and the depth of his artistry. From his iconic scores for The Last Emperor and Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence to his groundbreaking work with Yellow Magic Orchestra, Sakamoto’s music resonates with an unparalleled intensity.
As the film unfolds, we are invited into the inner sanctum of Sakamoto’s creative process, where each note is imbued with a sense of profound intimacy. Through Sora’s lens, we witness the maestro’s unwavering dedication to his craft, his fingers dancing across the keys with an ethereal grace. There are moments of improvisation, of exhaustion, of contemplation and reflection.
But Opus is more than a concert film, albeit of the highest hypnotic calibre; it is a testament to the enduring legacy of a musical icon. As Sakamoto performs his most beloved compositions, there is a palpable sense of reverence, as if each note were a cherished memory.
In the final moments of the film, as Sakamoto’s music fills the air, we are left with a profound sense of loss — but also a glimmer of hope. For though Sakamoto may have left this world, his music lives on, a timeless testament to the power of artistic expression.
In the end, this is not just a film; it is a celebration of a life well-lived, a career unmatched, and a legacy that will endure for generations to come, making it a truly awe-inspiring privilege to witness.
The Glasgow Film Festival runs to March 10.
