Gonjurô Kawarazaki
Actor
About Gonjurô Kawarazaki
Gonjurô Kawarazaki was a Japanese actor who appeared during the golden age of Japanese cinema in the late 1930s. His only known film credit is in Kenji Mizoguchi's acclaimed 1939 masterpiece 'The Story of the Last Chrysanthemum' (Zangiku Monogatari), a film that has since been recognized as one of the greatest achievements in Japanese cinematic history. While details about his broader career remain scarce, his involvement in this significant production suggests he was part of Japan's professional acting community during a pivotal period in the nation's film development. The film itself was notable for its sophisticated cinematography and emotional depth, characteristic of Mizoguchi's style. Kawarazaki's participation in this project, however brief, connects him to one of the most important directors and films of pre-war Japanese cinema. The limited documentation of his career reflects the challenges of preserving complete records of supporting actors from this era of Japanese film history.
The Craft
Milestones
- Appeared in Kenji Mizoguchi's 'The Story of the Last Chrysanthemum' (1939)
Best Known For
Must-See Films
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Gonjurô Kawarazaki's cultural impact is primarily tied to his participation in 'The Story of the Last Chrysanthemum,' a film that has gained significant recognition in international cinema circles as a masterpiece of Japanese filmmaking. The film itself is frequently studied for its technical innovations and emotional storytelling, representing the height of Japanese cinema's pre-war artistic achievements. While Kawarazaki's individual contribution may have been small, his involvement connects him to this important cultural artifact that continues to influence filmmakers and cinema scholars worldwide. The preservation of this film ensures that even minor participants in its creation maintain a place in cinematic history.
Lasting Legacy
Gonjurô Kawarazaki's legacy is that of a journeyman actor who participated in one of Japanese cinema's most celebrated films. While his career appears to have been brief, his association with Kenji Mizoguchi's work ensures his name is preserved in film history through the enduring reputation of 'The Story of the Last Chrysanthemum.' The film's continued recognition in film festivals, retrospectives, and academic study means that even minor contributors like Kawarazaki are acknowledged as part of this significant artistic achievement. His story represents the countless supporting actors who contributed to classic cinema's golden age, often without extensive documentation of their broader careers.
Who They Inspired
Due to the limited documentation of Gonjurô Kawarazaki's career, his direct influence on other actors or filmmakers cannot be specifically traced. However, his participation in Mizoguchi's work connects him to the broader influence of Japanese cinema's golden age on international film development. The film itself has influenced generations of filmmakers with its visual style and narrative techniques, and all who contributed to its creation, including Kawarazaki, are part of this artistic legacy.
Off Screen
Very little is documented about Gonjurô Kawarazaki's personal life, which is typical for many supporting actors from 1930s Japanese cinema whose records were not extensively preserved.
Did You Know?
- Appeared in only one known film, 'The Story of the Last Chrysanthemum' (1939)
- Worked with acclaimed director Kenji Mizoguchi, one of Japan's most celebrated filmmakers
- The film he appeared in was made during a pivotal period in Japanese cinema, just before World War II
- His entire known film career spans just one year according to available records
- The film he appeared in has been preserved and recognized by international film institutions
- His name appears in Japanese film databases, confirming his participation in this classic film
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Gonjurô Kawarazaki?
Gonjurô Kawarazaki was a Japanese actor active in 1939, known primarily for his appearance in Kenji Mizoguchi's acclaimed film 'The Story of the Last Chrysanthemum.' He appears to have had a brief film career with only this one documented credit.
What films is Gonjurô Kawarazaki best known for?
Gonjurô Kawarazaki is known for appearing in 'The Story of the Last Chrysanthemum' (1939), directed by Kenji Mizoguchi. This appears to be his only film credit based on available records.
When was Gonjurô Kawarazaki born and when did he die?
Specific birth and death dates for Gonjurô Kawarazaki are not documented in available film historical records, which is common for supporting actors from 1930s Japanese cinema.
What awards did Gonjurô Kawarazaki win?
There are no documented awards or nominations for Gonjurô Kawarazaki in available film history records. His recognition comes primarily from his participation in a historically significant film.
What was Gonjurô Kawarazaki's acting style?
Due to limited documentation of his career and the absence of extensive critical analysis of his performances, specific details about Gonjurô Kawarazaki's acting style are not available in film historical records.
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Films
1 film
