Aarcflick

Lee Sang-il, director of "Unforgiven," creates a decades-spanning historical drama starring Ryo Yoshizawa as an orphan aspiring to master the demanding art of kabuki. "Kokuho," a vivid portrait of a legendary kabuki actor throughout his career, joins a rich tradition of films that depict the personal toll of artistic creation. Too often, these stories present a simplified version of the demands and qualities of this art, diluting the essence of what drives the characters to undergo such rigorous trials. In contrast, the unexpected success of Japanese director Lee Sang-il, "Kokuho," devotes much of its runtime to capturing the beautiful physicality and poignant stories around which the performances revolve, reflecting the numerous struggles and complex triumphs in its protagonist's life. Director: Sang-il Lee Writers: Satoko Okudera, Shûichi Yoshida Stars: Keitatsu Koshiyama, Soya Kurokawa, Ai Mikami The title "Kokuho" translates as "nati...