Ryuichi Sakamoto’s Final Opus: A Poignant Farewell at Venice Film Festival
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Late in 2022, amidst the shadows of terminal cancer, the legendary Japanese musician Ryuichi Sakamoto took to a Tokyo studio. Over nine days, the maestro performed 20 cherished compositions from his illustrious career, accompanied solely by his piano. This intimate and raw performance, preserved through the lens of his son, Neo Sora, has emerged as the concert film “Opus,” now showcased at the Venice Film Festival, a mere six months post the composer’s demise.
Ryuichi Sakamoto’s name is often whispered with reverence, evoking memories of cinematic masterpieces like “The Last Emperor” and “Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence”, where his musical prowess added depth and nuance. Beyond the silver screen, his contribution as a founding member of the avant-garde electronic band Yellow Magic Orchestra (YMO) positioned him as a luminary in the music landscape.
“Opus” is a cinematic ode, rendered in timeless black and white, centering on the very essence of Sakamoto’s craft – his deep connection to his instrument. It offers a profound, stripped-down insight into the musician’s soul, where each note is laden with emotion. Sakamoto’s personal choice of pieces, and their sequence in the film, adds a touch of autobiography to this posthumous concert.
The filming process, as detailed by Sora, mirrored the composer’s meticulous nature. With director of photography Bill Kirstein by his side, each piece was captured in one to three takes, maintaining the authenticity and spontaneity of live performance. An emotional moment in “Opus” witnesses Sakamoto grappling with the complexities of “Tong Poo”, a testament to his waning physical strength. This vulnerability, coupled with his determination, reflects the resilience and spirit of an artist dedicated to his craft till his last breath.
Sora reflects on the experience, articulating the bittersweet emotions surrounding the Venice premiere – an event his father graced multiple times. While tinged with sorrow, “Opus” is undeniably a celebration, encapsulating the vibrancy and zeal of Sakamoto’s life.
As audiences at Venice witness “Opus,” they are not just privy to a concert. They experience a poignant adieu from a virtuoso who, even in his twilight, was radiant with life and passion. In Neo Sora’s words, “I think he would be really proud and happy that this film is here.” Sakamoto’s legacy, through “Opus,” finds its crescendo, leaving behind a melody that resonates with eternity.
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