MOVIE | The Dramatic Life of a Cinematic Master: 'An Uncomfortable Truth' (Roman Polanski)
MOVIE | The Dramatic Life of a Master Director Shines in Film History: Roman Polanski Confesses
The Documentary 'Roman Polanski: My Own Private Masterpiece'
Director Roman Polanski, a master who has created numerous masterpieces, including a double win at the Cannes Film Festival for the Palme d'Or and an Academy Award for Best Director for 'The Pianist' in 2002, looks back on his turbulent life in his own words in the documentary 'Roman Polanski: My Own Private Masterpiece.' The film will have a limited six-week run starting Saturday, June 1st, at Shibuya Theatre Image Forum.
Text by YANAKA Tomomi
Four Early Masterpieces to Screen in Celebration of the Documentary
Roman Polanski has graced the screen with masterpieces that transcend generations and nationalities, casting stars and exploring psychological dramas, thrillers, film noir, romance, and the occult—crossing genres to leave an indelible mark on film history. Now, a documentary will be released where he candidly recounts his turbulent life, from his upbringing to the present day, in his own words.
While under indictment for child sexual abuse charges and having fled the United States in the 1970s, Polanski was placed under house arrest at his Swiss home from 2009 to 2010. During this time, his longtime business partner, Andrew Brownsbeg, conducted a lengthy interview. Polanski, baring his soul to a close friend, sometimes with tears in his eyes, recounts his dramatic life of overcoming hardships and continuing his filmmaking journey.
Coinciding with the release of this film, four of Polanski's early masterpieces will also be screened at Theatre Image Forum: 'Rosemary's Baby' (1968), 'Knife in the Water' (1962), 'Repulsion' (1965), and 'Cul-de-sac' (1966). This presents an opportunity to once again glimpse his greatness.
Polanski: A Life Lived as a "Filmmaker" Mirrored His Own Cinematic Journey
Director Roman Polanski was born in Paris, France, in 1933. Although his family moved to Poland during his childhood, they were relocated to the Jewish ghetto during World War II. His mother died at Auschwitz, but he survived the war with his father's help, escaping the ghetto.
Sharon Tate (left) and Roman Polanski
He then studied filmmaking, his passion, at the Łódź Film School, and in 1962, released his first feature film, 'Knife in the Water.' After receiving international acclaim, he moved to the UK and directed 'Repulsion' in 1965 and 'Cul-de-sac' in 1966. His name became known worldwide with the 1968 release of 'Rosemary's Baby' in Hollywood, a film considered a cornerstone of occult cinema.
However, tragedy struck just a year later. His pregnant wife, actress Sharon Tate, was murdered by cult members, including the Charles Manson Family. Despite this, Polanski made a remarkable comeback with 'Chinatown' in 1974. He continued to energetically direct many talked-about films, such as 'Tess' (1979), even amidst numerous scandals, including fleeing the country on child sexual abuse charges.
Then, in 2002, he achieved a life's greatest triumph by winning the Palme d'Or for 'The Pianist.' Yet, the path to that achievement was paved with countless sad farewells and tumultuous days.—.
Roman Polanski has continued to live a life akin to a film, as a "filmmaker." Who is he, truly? This quiet yet hopeful documentary moves our hearts.
'Roman Polanski: My Own Private Masterpiece'
Limited six-week run starting Saturday, June 1st, at Shibuya Theatre Image Forum
Director | Laurent Bouzereau
Starring | Roman Polanski
Distribution | Mermaid Films
2012 / UK, Italy, Germany / 90 min
http://mermaidfilms.co.jp/rp
'Rosemary's Baby'
Starring | Mia Farrow, John Cassavetes
1968 / 137 min
'Knife in the Water'
Starring | Leon Niemczyk
1962 / 94 min
'Repulsion'
Starring | Catherine Deneuve
1965 / 105 min
'Cul-de-sac'
Starring | Françoise Dorléac
1966 / 116 min
©2011 ANAGRAM FILMS LIMITED. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.