This special limited edition slipcover is limited to 1,000 units and is only available on our website and at select indie retailers. Absolutely no major retailers will be stocking them.
Named after Yasujiro Ozu’s custom-made, tatami-level, crab-like tripod, Kani is a new home video label dedicated to leveling the gaze and furthering the understanding of Asian cinema in North America. Focused on genre-defying films, Kani aims to expand the canon, bolster up-and-coming filmmakers and reintroduce repertory classics in context. Vinegar Syndrome’s sister company, OCN Distribution, is thrilled to be representing this diverse and unique home video line!
Mostly seen on the gay pink circuit and recently restored by its director to its rightful place in the Japanese arthouse canon, Akihiro Suzuki's debut takes the death of a young gay porn performer named Takachi as its starting point. Looking for an Angel follows Shinpei and Reiko as they process their friend’s disappearance, their memories coalescing into a bold exploration of grief set against the backdrop of a nostalgic, blue-hued city shot in a variety of filmic formats. As the viewer begins to piece together Takachi’s story, laden with desire for another boy named Sorao, between the cities of Tokyo and Kochi (“where the boys look like angels”), a powerful free-associative beauty emerges from a unique work described by Suzuki himself as “neither straight, gay, queer, bisexual, asexual or pornographic, but [rather] anti-heterosexist” — a film completely free of dogma and convention.
“At the time, I felt a sense of rebellion against the heterosexual-dominated world, and wanted to portray sexuality and identity through an ambiguity that cannot be categorized,” says director Akihiro Suzuki. "I wanted to make a 35mm film like an 8mm film, mix various visual media, and include people of diverse sexualities around me in it.” — Akihiro Suzuki
directed by: Akihiro Suzuki
starring: Kōichi Imaizumi, Akira Suehiro, Hotaru Hazuki, Akira Kuroiwa, Kôichi Fujishima, Tho Ogura, Keiko Suzuki, Yusui Kawasaki, Hiroyuki Oki
1999 / 61 min / 1.85:1 / Japanese DTS-HD MA 2.0
Additional info:
Overall rating: 4.8125 / 5 from 32 reviews.
Looking for an Angel is a restored Japanese arthouse film exploring themes of grief and sexuality, presented in a nostalgic, blue-hued aesthetic. It is part of Kani's limited edition home video label, featuring a commentary track and bonus features. The film has received positive feedback for its unique storytelling and visual style.
Review topics: ["film","release","movie","cinematography","cinema","title","kani","punches","commentary"].
"This title is a masterpiece of dreamy pink cinema and a one of a kind. Beautiful cinematography. Pure classic and one that will get multiple views. Kani have done a great job on the release with extras like a whole feature film! (Which is very good too) plus, essential Dakota Noot content!! Outstanding stuff."
"Looking for an Angel is a haunting, low-budget Japanese queer drama that feels more like a faded memory than a conventional narrative. The Kani Blu-ray release is historically important as the first gay pink film released on Blu-ray, and the restoration preserves the movie’s dreamy, grainy 16mm aesthetic beautifully. As far as extras is concerned, it comes with a new scan for the following film by his director, Akihiro Suzuki: Angel's Body Temperature. So you get two movies for the price of one! This one comes highly recommended!"
"Essential new queer cinema that broke my heart in a very specific way. If you’re a homo who grew up in the 90’s, you know what I’m talking about. The most distinct, accurate portrayals of memory and loss. Incredibly melancholic and tender."
"Fascinating cinema verite style of cinematography, with a disjointed, almost seems random, narrative structure. Non-traditional character styles, with a very dreamlike approach to it all. A glimpse into another world altogether, with dynamics in play that held my attention. Also, the bonus feature film “Angel’s Body Temperature” is also a fascinating glimpse into another world, perfect companion for "Looking For An Angel". Includes a booklet with some engaging writing and wonderful photos."
"I can't say I walked away from this title totally satisfied, but it might benefit people to know that the movie is more abstract/ambiguous than it looks like it may be. It's got good low-fi cinematography and I appreciate the general mood it sets, but narratively I wanted a bit more. Not a bad release from Kani overall, but your mileage may vary depending on how you like the way the movie moves."
"Kōichi Imaizumi is most known to me for being in Sato's pink films but I was interested to learn he was gay (or bi I suppose). And that he did work within the gay side of Pink Film. Wouldn't toy know it Kani is here to help bridge the gap with this release."
"Awesome Kani release and restoration. Commentary is very wonderful and ver informative with Dakota Noots."
"Another great release from Kani. This title is more experimental but at 60 minutes doesn’t wear out its welcome. Great package with the booklet too!"
"Beautiful movie with wonderful extras (including a whole bonus movie!) If you're into pinku or homoerotic romance pick it up!"
"The main feature is Looking for an Angel but the secondary feature in the extras, Angel’s Body Temperature, is also a spectacular masterpiece. This is essential cinema and release. Highly recommend."
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