Eijanaika (1981)
Original title: ええじゃないか
Eijanaika is a 1981 Japanese-language drama movie directed by Shōhei Imamura, with a running time of 2h 31m. It stars Shigeru Izumiya, Kaori Momoi and Masao Kusakari.
The film depicts carnivalesque atmosphere summed up by the cry "Ei ja nai ka" ("Why not?") in Japan in 1867 and 1868 in the days leading to the Meiji Restoration. It examines the effects of the political and social upheaval of the time, and culminates in a revelrous march on the Tokyo Imperial Palace, which turns into a massacre. Characteristically, Imamura focuses not on the leaders of the country, but on characters in the lower classes and on the fringes of society.
Quick answers
What is Eijanaika about?
The film depicts carnivalesque atmosphere summed up by the cry "Ei ja nai ka" ("Why not?") in Japan in 1867 and 1868 in the days leading to the Meiji Restoration. It examines the effects of the political and social upheaval of the time, and culminates in a revelrous march on the Tokyo Imperial Palace, which turns into a massacre. Characteristically, Imamura focuses not on the leaders of the country, but on characters in the lower classes and on the fringes of society.
When was Eijanaika released?
Eijanaika was released on 8 January 1981.
How long is Eijanaika?
Eijanaika runs 2h 31m.
Who made Eijanaika?
Eijanaika was directed by Shōhei Imamura.
Where can I watch Eijanaika?
Eijanaika is available on Criterion Channel.
Where to watch Eijanaika
Stream: Criterion Channel